Normal operations at all Greek ports were halted by a 24-hour general strike on Wednesday. Reports say it  hit virtually all services across the country.

Public and private sector employees joined the stoppage.

Unions had called the strike in protest at proposed reforms to the current pension and welfare system.

According to the unions, the reforms will result in lower pensions and higher retirement age levels.

The two main Greek ports of Piraeus and Thessaloniki came to a standstill during the stoppage. Other Greek ports were in a similar position.

According to reports, no ships were able to sail for scheduled itineraries to and from any Greek port.