Portugal public sector strike 2012 03 22

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Union movement split sees lower turnout, but services still severely disrupted

After consulting the Vatican, two religious festivals and two other public holidays will be suspended for five years.

Tens of thousands to rally in protest and ongoing belt-tightening measures.

Demonstrators march in downtown Lisbon following a 24-hour general strike across Portugal on March 22, 2012.

PATRICIA DE MELO MOREIRA

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