BUCHAREST, Romania (AP) — Thousands of Romanian public sector workers have rallied outside government offices in Bucharest to demand that the government scrap plans to hike the taxes paid by employees.

Protesters blew whistles, yelled "Romania, wake up!" and called for the resignation of Prime Minister Mihai Tudose and other key ministers during Wednesday's protest.

Workers from the health care sector, the national railways and other sectors took part in the demonstration, organized by the Alfa-Cartel trade union.

Under the new plan, social welfare taxes currently paid by the employer would be transferred to the employee. Unions say the measure would reduce employees' net income by at least 8 percent.

Police closed Victory Square where the government has its main offices for the demonstration, snarling traffic in the Romanian capital.