Greek seasonal firefighters protest for permanent jobs

Seasonal firefighters in Greece held a large-scale protest in front of the Hellenic Parliament to demand permanent employment and improved working conditions. Protesters, represented by the Panhellenic Association of Contractual Firefighters, are calling for 12-month contracts to replace their current seasonal status. They argue that while they are treated as heroes during the wildfire season, they are left in a state of job insecurity once the fires are extinguished.

Demonstrators highlighted that approximately 25% of the roughly 9,000 active firefighters in the country are employed on a seasonal basis. They suggested that these workers could be utilized year-round for preventative measures, such as creating firebreaks and conducting controlled burns. Additionally, the group raised concerns regarding shortages in personnel, vehicles, and essential equipment within the Fire Service.

Although government representatives received the protesters' demands, no official announcement has been made regarding a resolution. The protesters emphasized that the destruction caused by fires is not a seasonal phenomenon and called for concrete commitments rather than further promises.