ERT.gr no more.
In a surprise move earlier today, the Greek government announced the immediate closure of its national radio and television network, citing reorganization reasons.
ERT.gr, the Greek national Radio and Television web site was also turned off, while a total of 2,656 employees were terminated, pending layoff compensations per the law.
Thousands of protesters took to the streets after midnight local time, as yet another decision was made on behalf of the Greeks by a government that aspires to please its European reorganization observers, referred to as the ‘troika’. These changes in financial management are a prerequisite in order to secure parts of a large financial loan, approved by the European Union.
The Greek national Radio network formed in 1938 and at its peak operated 19 peripheral radio stations around Greece, along with three national television channels.
Being employed at the Greek Radio and Television – a state operated organization – was seen by many as the ultimate ‘secure’ position of employment. ERT was funded until recently by a direct payment of 4.30 euros ($6) added monthly to electricity bills, a charge that many Greeks oppose to.
The government now plans to launch a new, privatized version of its former network, employing a maximum of 1,000 people and with severely cut spending and operating costs.
You can view the last archived version of the ERT.gr web site here.
This post is 100% true!
Actually ert.gr is the only part of ERT working.
TV and radio is dark.
Yeah, looks like the ERT employees are on a digital ‘mutiny’ 😀