( CNN ) -- In a budget-cutting move , the Greek government closed , at least temporarily , state broadcaster ERT . Government spokesperson Simon Kedikoglou cited chronic corruption and mismanagement of funds as reasons for the closure . `` At a time when the Greek people are enduring sacrifices , there is no room for delay , hesitation or tolerance for sacred cows , '' Kedikoglou said in announcement shown on the broadcaster . At least several of ERT 's three TV channels and radio services went off the air early Wednesday . Television viewers saw screens go black . ERT has said the decision means 2,656 employees will lose their jobs . In order to meet its commitments to its creditors , the Greek government has to dismiss 2,000 people from the wider public sector by the end of the year and 15,000 by the end of 2014 . The new television and radio broadcaster will open with a much smaller staff , Kedikoglou said . A `` modern television and radio broadcaster will be established that will operate as soon as possible , '' he said . Existing employees will be able to apply for new positions . A time frame for the new organization has not been announced . Hundreds of employees gathered outside the ERT Athens headquarters to protest the move . Unions say they will fight the decision .
Greek government orders closure of state broadcaster ERT . Spokesman cited chronic corruption and mismanagement of funds . Comment: