Talks fail to resolve Venezuelan oil strike

Talks between the Venezuelan Government and opposition groups aimed at ending the country's prolonged general strike have broken down with both sides unwilling to concede any ground.

Organisation of American States secretary-general Cesar Gaviria had worked hard to get the two feuding sides back to the negotiations table over the Christmas holidays but has now admitted partial defeat as they go their separate ways with no more talks scheduled until the New Year.

The opposition, which includes big business, the state oil company, unions and President Hugo Chavez's numerous political foes, are demanding a February referendum on his rule and elections within three months.

President Chavez resolutely insists a binding referendum will not be held until August.

More protest marches nationwide are taking place throughout today.