Hundreds protest in memory of Greek state broadcaster

Hundreds of former employees of the Greek state broadcaster ERT gathered outside the building to hold a protest rally that marks the passing of one year since the government suddenly and inexplicably shutd own the station.

The building now holds the NERIT broadcaster which is short for New Greek Radio, Internet and Television service.

Many former employees, including journalists, are still jobless. Some, though, have put together a broadcast service called ERT OPEN, which is only available via the internet. Still, people see it as an act of defiance and resistance in the face of the government.

Nikos Michalitsis, the former director of ERT technical services, said that: 'We feel proud because we decided to fight against the coup that took place on June 11. One year after, we are still here and are continuing. Moreover, we believe we have shown there is another way.'

The sudden closure of ERT was seen as an attack on democracy led by the government which was nearly on the verge of collapse after the affair backfired.