Proposed reforms of the taxi profession in Greece have resulted in drivers disrupting tourist travel on the islands of Corfu and Crete. The protest, which began earlier in the week, meant that travellers disembarking from cruise ships were unable to get onto the tour buses which were awaiting them at the port of Heraklion on Crete and on Corfu.

Greece is currently in discussions with the European Union about a potential second bailout package as the economy continues to spiral out of control. Any loan given to the country by the EU will be dependent on the liberalisation of a number of professions, including taxi services. However, taxi drivers in Greece are determined that a limit is kept in place on the number of licenses available.

Road traffic has also been disrupted in Athens, although this did not affect flight schedules. The Greek government is desperately trying to combat increasing debt and has targeted 135 professions for reform.

Taxi drivers have already been confronted by police as they protested outside the Greek transport ministry. The authorities decided to use tear gas after the drivers started throwing water bottles and stones.

The Greek economy is heavily reliant on tourism with 16 per cent of the country’s gross domestic product coming from those visiting the country for their holidays. Continuing to attract visitors from abroad is vital if the crumbling economy is to get back on its feet. The International Monetary Fund and the EU issued a £97 billion rescue package to Greece in May last year.