Miners March in Romania
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TIRGU JIU, Romania — Thousands of Romanian coal miners climbed over police barricades and clashed with special forces Tuesday as they marched toward the capital to protest low wages and possible layoffs. At least 15 people were reported injured.
Police sprayed tear gas and threw smoke bombs to try to stop waves of miners--an estimated 10,000 strong--as they moved toward Bucharest, about 150 miles to the east.
The 15-day miners strike is the worst crisis the Romanian government has faced since coming to power in 1996.
The miners are demanding a 35% wage hike and the equivalent of $10,000 in severance pay for those laid off. They also want the government to rescind the planned closure of two mines that employ 2,000 workers.
President Emil Constantinescu convened an urgent staff meeting to discuss the government’s strategy.
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