Teachers, doctors, truck drivers, government employees and other workers -- launch one-day national strike

Dozens of labour unions -- representing teachers, doctors, truck drivers, government employees and other workers -- launched a one-day national strike on 23 October 2008. Travellers should anticipate significant transportation disruptions in major cities throughout Colombia. In Bogota, protesters will march from the Plaza de Toros to the Plaza Bolivar beginning at approximately 1000 local time. The Bogota Metropolitan Police force has deployed thousands of officers to maintain order during the strike. Taxi drivers are participating in the action, though some companies will continue to provide services. Workers at public hospitals and clinics will only provide services to emergency and intensive care patients.