[ Ссылка ] Clashes have erupted in Istanbul as 20,000 police attempted to cordon off Taksim Square.
Protesters are attempting to defy a government ban on May Day celebrations in the square.
Having allowed labour day gatherings for the last three years, the Turkish authorities did not grant permission due to safety concerns. The central square is undergoing major renovation. All transport to the area was canceled.
Since the early hours anti-riot police have attempted to disperse protesters heading towards Taksim.
In 2010, the government allowed trade unions their traditional gathering in the square following a 33 year ban.
In 1977, Bloody May Day led to 34 deaths when clashes broke out between protesters and police leading to the decades-long ban.
The government did agree to a small group to leave a wreath in Taksim in memory of those who died in '77.
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