CHILE: 20,000 Protest Patagonian Dams Construction In Santiago; Scattered Violence Met With Tear Gas.

LATIMES/ F. Gutierrez, C. Kraul

       Another massive protest against the 5 proposed dams to be built in the widerness of Patagonia was held in Santiago.
      An estimated 20,000 marched against the $3.2-billion construction on the Baker and Pascua rivers in the Aysen region.
       Most marchers were peaceful but some hooded protesters attacked police, smashed windows and damaged property on 10-blocks of Santiago's main street.
        Hundreds wearing masks threw rocks at police. 
       They were met with water cannons and tear gas.
       Critics believe the projects would devastate an untouched region that is home to many rare animal and plant species.
      Officials claim it will increase the electrical power supply by 15% when construction in 2020.
       An estimated 60% of those questioned in the Aysen region oppose the project.
        Police say 25,000 protesters are expected in Valparaiso today outside the building where President Pinera will deliver his state of the union speech.

CHILE: Job Cuts Protested In Valparaiso During Pinera Speech.

BBC/ 1:37 VIDEO/               Police used water cannons to disperse demonstrators, mostly public sector workers, protesting against recent job cuts outside the building in Valparaiso where President Pinera was delivering his first state-of-the-nation address.