Chilean demonstrators clash with police

'They sold the water, they sold the electricity, now they want to sell health' cries a demonstrator in the Chilean capital Santiago on Thursday.

Thousands heeded the call to strike from unions and student groups.

They're demanding workplace reforms to tax and minimum wage laws in order to reduce inequality.

(SOUNDBITE) (Spanish) CHILEAN PARKS WORKER, HECTOR VEGA, SAYING:

"Everything is business in Chile, and we want that to stop so that the country is fair for all."

Most demonstrations remained peaceful but as the day wore on, barricades were built and fires lit in various parts of the city.

Police responded with water cannon and tear gas.

At this school, demonstrators hurled fire extinguishers and rocks at police.

Tensions remained high into the night and several protesters were detained.