Greek public transport workers join strikes

ATHENS (AP) - Public transport workers in Greece have joined a growing wave of strikes against new austerity measures that the country's creditors are demanding in return for rescue loans.

Subway, tram and trolley-bus services are halting for 24 hours on Thursday in the greater Athens area. Judges and doctors at public hospitals also began protests this week, turning away most cases in a slow-down strike, while tax workers are to strike on Friday.

Conservative Prime Minister Antonis Samaras is again meeting with the leaders of parties backing his coalition government later to discuss the new austerity package worth at least 11.5 billion euro ($18 billion).

The package is expected to include more salary and pension cuts. Critics say it will make the recession worse and make it more difficult for Greece to pay down its debts.