Ambulance drivers, paramedics and other National First Aid Center (EKAB) staff across Attica are to join a series of 24-hour strikes from today, reiterating demands for an Olympic bonus promised to police and other security services staff.

Talks yesterday between Health Ministry officials and unionists broke down after the union representing Attica workers refused to accept the ministry’s offer of a monthly “readiness” bonus of 40 euros — instead of the Olympic stipend — and payment for all overtime during the Games. The national union had been happy with the ministry’s offer.

Health Minister Nikitas Kaklamanis appealed to EKAB staff to reconsider their responsibilities in view of the Olympics and stressed that the alternative bonus being offered “more than covers the demanded Olympic bonus, as workers would be receiving it their entire working life.”