Protest against cruise passenger ΄bubbles΄ this morning

There was a protest at Corfu Port this morning with businesses and professionals protesting against the damage being done to the local economy by the cruise passenger ΄bubbles΄ which don't allow passengers to wander around freely but guide them to specific businesses and shops.



Those taking part were those are directly hit by the 'bubble' protocol, including the Ionian Trade & Enterprise Federation, Corfu Trade Association, Restaurateurs & Catering Professionals Association, the Taxi Association, KTEL, Horse & Carriage Association and Corfu Kiosk Owners' Association. Corfu Accountants' Association and Corfu SYRIZA Finance & Tourism Committee also took part.

The protest was peaceful and it should be noted that it took place today, when there is no cruise ship in port, in order not to cause problems for passengers.

The objects of the protest were as follows:

- Support for all businesses without exception
- To make it understood that cruises need to contribute to the economy
- To ensure that income from cruise passengers is not lost forever
- The historical centre with Corfu shops doesn't disappear
- Corfu island as a tourist destination is not devalued
- The prosperity of the Corfu public

The businesses condemn the economic strangulation caused by the unfair competition created by the 'bubble' protocol with 70% loss of income and point out the serious trouble that a lot of these businesses find themselves in.