Protesters from quake-stricken Italian region clash with police in Rome demonstration

Quake survivors clash with police in Rome protest

ROME — Protesters from the Italian region struck by a powerful quake last year have clashed with police near the premier’s office in Rome.

Hundreds of people staged a demonstration in Rome on Wednesday to demand help from the government for the reconstruction of L’Aquila and other places damaged by the April 2009 quake.

The small clashes took place when some of the demonstrators tried to break a police barrier just a few blocks from the premier’s office, according to Italian news reports.

The ANSA news agency said two protesters were injured.

The quake killed about 300 people and drove thousands from their homes. Residents have lamented the slow pace of the reconstruction and want tax breaks.