The Hellenic Radio (ERA): News in English, 05-06-08

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From: The Hellenic Radio (ERA) <www.ert.gr/>

CONTENTS

[01] Proposed by K. Karamanlis Vote of Confidence

By Athina Saloustrou

During todays scheduled discussion in Parliament for the Economy, Greek PM Kostas Karamanlis responded to George Papandreous motion of censure against Economy Minister Giorgos Alogoskoufis with a proposal for a vote of confidence to the Government. Following a severe attack against the Government, the President of PASOK noted, "The people will soon decide that the major first step for structural changes in Greece will be to put New Democracy back in the Opposition." He further announced that he was filing, on behalf of the Opposition, a motion of censure against Giorgos Alogoskoufis, to whom he attributed severe political responsibilities for the Economy, while he accused the Government of incompetence, apathy and unreliability. "Because the Economy and the Budget are not matters for one individual, but for the collective policy of the Government, I am proposing that the discussion turns into a vote of confidence for the Government, so that we can be given the full opportunity to discuss matters and present the people responsible and the practices of PASOK over the last few years," responded Kostas Karamanlis. The discussion for the vote of confidence will commence on Friday and will be concluded on Sunday night with a voting session. KKEs General Secretary Aleka Papariga spoke of a fixed theatrical performance between the two major parties, staged by the same director, while SYNs president Alekos Alavanos accused ND and PASOK of a Parliamentary game against the left-wing parties. Referring to PASOKs motion of censure, the Minister of Economy said the motion is politically pointless.

Awkward Situation

Awkwardness and confusion prevail today within PASOKs parliamentary group, following todays developments in Parliament. During a meeting presided over by George Papandreou and attended by top party members, PASOKs president said that he had not told anyone of his initiative to file a motion of censure against Economy Minister Giorgos Alogoskoufis.

Actually, Mr Papandreou spoke of a personal initiative, while some members, including Evangelos Venizelos, noted the need to support George Papandreous political move, irrespective of whether they agree to it or not.

Furthermore, close associates of former PM Kostas Simitis said that Mr Papandreous move was wrong, while they described the PMs response as clever.

In addition, several PASOK members and MPs hinted that Mr Papandreous move may have been intercepted, however, Mr Papandreou himself ruled out such a possibility.

However, PASOKs spokesperson Nikos Athanasakis stressed that the discussion that will take place in Parliament concerning the vote of confidence for the Government, could unite the Government and the ND party, but it could also reveal the political problems that lie within the Government, while at the same time uniting PASOK and its voters.

Speaking on radio station NET 105.8, PASOK MP Andreas Loverdos noted, "Our partys leader made a move that signaled discontent, protest and censure against the Economy Minister for bad economic policies."

Reactions

Following todays developments in Parliament, the left-wing parties spoke of a fictional political scene.

KKEs general secretary Aleka Papariga, described todays developments as a fixed theatrical performance between the two major parties, staged by the same director. She further spoke of reactionary and anti-populist policies, which annihilate the rights of workers. She also added that it is in the interest of the two major parties to put an end to meaningful discussion and disputes and convert the Greek people into a herd that follows either one of them. "Disputes should not just be unionist, but also political and ideological," concluded Mrs Papariga.

On his part, SYNs president Alekos Alavanos described todays developments as a "parliamentary game", which turned against the left-wing parties, depriving his party of the opportunity to present its stance, considering that it was SYN that had asked for a discussion in Parliament over unemployment.

Furthermore, earlier, speaking on NET 105.8, SYNs parliamentary spokesperson Fotis Kouvelis said that the process benefits both major parties, as they will be able to create a technical polarisation. SYNs parliamentary group will meet at 2:30pm to discuss its stance in view of the vote of confidence session.

Former ND President Miltiadis Evert spoke of a huge blunder by PASOKs leader, claiming, "George Papandreou has given ND the tremendous opportunity to receive a vote of confidence, in order to reconfirm the vote of confidence it had. It was a huge blunder."

Translated by Vicky Ghionis

Related News:

On a Collision Course

[02] With Privileged Interests On a Collision Course

By Athina Saloustrou

During todays scheduled discussion in Parliament for the Economy, the Greek PM noted the Governments determination to free the State of the pathogenesis, stiffness and mentalities of the past, which are undermining its effectiveness and social role, without considering the political cost. "We are in a state of constant collision concerning each problem that affects the State and society," announced Kostas Karamanlis, while he noted that the most important one is unemployment, which concerns everyone. Mr Karamanlis also noted that he is determined to proceed with changes and reforms, asking for consent. And if this is not achieved, he is determined to deal with the problems head-on and oppose the special interests of the privileged. PASOKs President George Papandreou was extremely harsh against the Government, while he filed a motion of censure against the Economy Minister Giorgos Alogoskoufis.

Changes and Reforms

The PM described the next two months as very critical, while he noted that the Government would be fulfilling its pre-election pledges. Meanwhile, the PM insisted on consent, stressing that even the top PASOK members are in favour of reforms, while he also expressed his determination to proceed with changes in the areas where agreements have not been reached.

Problems of the Past

On the occasion of the European Commission fine for mishandling public works over the 2000-2003 period, the OTE agreement and the new Employment policies, the PMs speech focused on the need to promote reforms. However, he noted that the reforms should be to the benefit of the Greek people and should not be based on ideological disputes and dogmatic stances.

After describing the problems left behind by the previous government in the area of Economy and especially unemployment, the PM referred to the example of Ireland, which invested on the new generation and technology, faced its problems, took risks and achieved a sharp increase of its GDP and a reduction of unemployment. "In the age of new knowledge and technology, the countries that do not take risks stay behind," underlined the PM.

Commenting on the value of Education for the creation of new jobs in the new competitive environment, Mr Karamanlis declared, "We are all being judged and assessed. This is a self-evident principle and should not be missing from our educational system," while he added, "The creation of new and viable jobs is a matter of education and competitiveness of the Economy."

Referring to the GDPs growth rates in the past, Mr Karamanlis said that they were high, but only some sectors experienced growth, ie constructions.

European Commissions Fine

On the matter of the European Commissions fine for mishandling funds from the CSF over the period 2000-2003, Mr Karamanlis said that it was imposed because of the irresponsible policies of the previous government, which was known for its bad administration, errors, omissions, bad legislation and mentality.

He also noted that the Commission was asking for 1.5 billion euros, while they were even threatening to stop funding Greece, but after tough negotiations, the new Government managed to reduce the fine to 548 million euros, to be repaid in four years. "This demonstrates the irresponsibility of the previous Government and the tough job of correcting their tragic errors," he said.

The PM also referred to the Employment issue. "The challenge for the new development prospects is to create jobs and achieve social cohesion, which demands a change in the status quo," said Mr Karamanlis. He further noted that boosting the countrys competitiveness should not rely on low labour costs, but on the quality of Greek products and services, as well as the promotion of the countrys benefits.

Agreement with OTE

Referring to the agreement with OTE, Mr Karamanlis claimed that the Government is supporting the agreement between the company and the employees, which constitutes a model agreement, while he also spoke about a discussion for a rational solution to the matter of the competitiveness of state-owned banks.

Social Dialogue

Mr Karamanlis repeated that the Government has told the people the truth about the Greek Economy.

"We commenced dialogue with the relevant bodies. We proposed changes, aiming at wider consent. However, we are prepared to proceed with changes and reforms. There is no other way to overcome the critical economic situation," stressed the PM.

In concluding, Mr Karamanlis said that we have to put aside the mentality that nothing changes, "We do not hesitate to clash with state interests and the privileged," he noted.

Motion of Censure

PASOK President George Papandreou started his speech addressing ND parliamentarians, whom he asked if they still trust the government and the Prime Minister. In the unanimous answer of the ruling party, he answered back: "You do? Well, the Greek people doesnt anymore!"

"You have all been deceived along with the Greek people," noted Mr Papandreou addressing the ruling party and went on to add: "You may put faith in the words of Mr Alogoskoufis. But what happens with pensions and pensioners? What happens with the growth rate that was supposed to reach 5%?"

In his speech, and just before filing the motion of censure against Mr Alogoskoufis, the President of PASOK referred to the recent statements by Adam Regouzas, saying that he revealed the Governments intentions. Actually, he spoke of deliberate forgery, at a time when ND was accusing PASOK of creative budgets.

A little earlier, he had said sarcastically, "God help us from your negotiation abilities," referring to the negotiations for the issue with Cyprus, Turkeys European prospects and the issue with FYROMs name.

"Mr Karamanlis, reality has exposed you and your propaganda collapsed like a deck of cards," continued PASOK president in an effort to show the government is fully untrustworthy. "Additional taxation measures followed the first trustworthy 2005 Budget and your ministers admitted they drew up a fake budget having full knowledge."

According to Mr Papandreou, there was also "the fiasco of the main shareholder that exposed the country and overshadowed the political and business world with vague accusation and insinuations," the loss of 500 million euros from the 3rd CSF, although there was a regulation agreed upon by the PASOK government and the EU which ND did not put into effect, public debt that rises unstoppably, the collapse of the public works system with "650,000 unemployed workers in constructions," the effort to "deregulate labour relations" and the increase of working hours "at the multinational companies' request," the generation of contract workers created by the Government over the last 14 months, by hiring 111,462 party-affiliated people," the "sell-out of public property clearly for gaining more money, the "effort to increase revenues through gambling."

Ending his speech, PASOK President predicted that "pretty soon the people will decide that the big step towards structural changes is to put ND back in the Opposition," and finally proceeded with filing a motion of censure against Minister of Economy and Finance Giorgos Alogoskoufis, to which the Prime Minister answered back with submitting a proposal for a vote of confidence to the government.

Translated by Vicky Ghionis

Related News:

Vote of Confidence

[03] Permit to Live!

By Annita Paschalinou

Petra, a six-year-old girl from Brazil, found herself caught between death and bureaucracy. Doctors diagnosed her with leukemia and haemophilia but the story doesn't end there. Petra was also faced with bureaucracy. She and her mother were very close to being deported because their request to acquire a residence permit was not granted. However, after the intervention of Internal Affairs Minister Prokopis Pavlopoulos and the Prefect of Lesvos, the girl was granted a permit to live. On Monday, she will be admitted to the Children's Hospital with everyone's whishes by her side.

Game Between Death and Bureaucracy

"I don't want to go back to Brazil," says Petra in very good Greek she learnt in seven months.

As of last November, 6-year-old Petra Soares is living with her mother on the island of Mytilini, next to her grandmother. The dream of a better life in Mytilini soon turned into a nightmare, when doctors diagnosed the little girl with leukemia and haemophilia. When their tourist visa expired, they filed an application requesting for a residence permit for humanitarian reasons, which however was rejected.

Thankfully, the solution was found after the personal intervention of Internal Affairs Minister Prokopis Pavlopoulos. Still, the adventure of young Petra has just started as she will be submitted to chemotherapy as of Monday.

The non-profit children's organisation "Chamogelo tou Paidiou" has undertaken the care of the young girl and her mother.

Translated by Sofia Soulioti

[04] Joint Front

By Anna Kourti

GSEE (Greek General Confederation of Labour) and DEKO (public enterprises which are classed as public services and utilities) Federations answer back to government regulations with a 24-hour strike and work stoppages next Thursday. On July 13, the day when the bill for flexible working hours and the reduction of overtime cost will be submitted to Parliament, GSEE will go on a 24-hour strike. In the meantime, bank transactions will be held with difficulties until Friday, as bank employees declared a new 48-strike in protest for the solution promoted by the Government over social security. Earlier, Hellenic Petroleum workers suspended the 10-day strike they had scheduled for June 10 after negotiations with the administration and the agreement for a new collective work contract that provides for a 0.2% increase below inflation.

"Political Bullying"

GSEE president Christos Polyzogopoulos spoke of a singular political bullying by the government, turning fire on the unionists who signed the OTE agreement.

Translated by Sofia Soulioti

Related News:

Head-On Collision

[05] PASOK Motion of Censure Pointless Alogoskoufis Answered Back

By Vivian Papastefanou

During a Press Conference at noon, Minister of Economy Giorgos Alogoskoufis described the motion of censure filed by PASOK President George Papandreou over structural changes as politically pointless. Mr Alogoskoufis underlined that the Opposition leader fortifies himself behind the most reactionary actions that have pined down Greek Economy in the past, while he also spoke of business interests that interfere with the smooth operation of the Public sector. Referring to yesterdays agreement between the Greek government and the Commission for the return of funds that rise to 518 million euros, the Minister of Economy spoke of a successful compromise that relieves the country from the threat of suspending the 3rd CSF (Community Support Framework) funds. Questioned whether there will be new taxation measures, Mr Alogoskoufis stressed that the government is doing its best to overcome the possibility and expressed the optimism that this aim will be reached. Lastly, he estimated there wont be any problems with the Commission regarding the OTE reforms.

Translated by Sofia Soulioti

Related News:

Vote of Confidence

Head-On Collision

[06] Clash Over Sewage Sludge Continues

By Vicky Keleri

During his visit in Tagarades, Thessaloniki, deputy minister for the Environment Themistoklis Xanthopoulos was informed on the operation course of the sewage sludge treatment pilot programme by the Federation of Thessaloniki Local Government Associations. Mr Xanthopoulos voiced his satisfaction over the results of the programme and pledged to apply all specifications in Attica for the proper management of the sewage sludge from Psittalia. In fact, he estimated that on June 15, at which point the Ministry for the Environment will hold a meeting on the matter, developments will be positive. The Ano Liossia spokesperson, who was present in Thessaloniki and watched the sewage sludge treatment, voiced serious objections regarding the operation of such a unit in Western Attica, even if it will be a model unit.

Treatment Product "Friendly to the Environment"

The President of the Federation of Thessaloniki Local Government Associations, Ioannis Zournas, stressed that the product coming from the sewage sludge treatment is completely friendly to the environment and could be used as a soil improver in parks and gardens, as well as a covering material for refuse dumps and restorations.

It should be noted that since September 2004, when the programme was put to effect, 2,000 tonnes of such material have been produced, which will be used to either restore the landfill in Tagarades, or will be given to municipalities for gardens, parks and various other uses.

Translated by Sofia Soulioti

[07] Palestinians Have Not Yet Accepted Jordan Accepts the Suffragan

By Vivian Papastefanou

Sources: NET 105.8

As per reliable media sources, the Jordanian government accepted the suffragan of the Patriarchate of Jerusalem. The document of acceptance is to be sent in Jerusalem within two days time. In the meantime, the Patriarchate requested the postponement of the meeting, which had been scheduled on Monday, between the suffragan and the Palestinian president, since on that day the Holy Synod is holding a session to impose sanctions on the four Bishops who co-officiated with Mr Eirinaios. The meeting concerns the issue of acceptance on the part of the Palestinian authorities.

Translated by Areti Christou

Related News:

Kornilios of Petra Elected Suffragan

[08] At the Bush-Erdogan Meeting Electrified Atmosphere

By Annita Paschalinou

According to international news agencies correspondents the meeting between the Turkish prime minister and the US President in the White House was held in a heavy climate. George Bush spoke of an important strategic relation between the two countries, but avoided making any reference to dealing with international terrorism and the situation in Iraq, issues that divide Ankara and Washington. CNN Turk also referred to the cold climate, noting that the White House changed the protocol and Messrs Erdogan and Bush did not make joint statements.

He Left Empty-Handed

The escalation of anti-Americanism in Turkey and the issue of Iraq continue to cast their shadow upon the two countries' relations.

At least, this is what international news agencies correspondents note, underlining that the Turkish Prime Minister is leaving the White House empty-handed. George Bush repeated that Turkey sets an example for the peoples of the Middle East and sufficed to stressed the country's decisive role in Afghanistan.

As for the Turkish PM, he expressed the hope that bilateral relations will move on the same level of cooperation as in the past, noting that the agenda included the issues with Cyprus, the Middle East, Iraq and Afghanistan.

He also added that President Bush was presented with the perspectives of investing in Turkey and estimated that the US President's reaction was positive.

Obstacles Still Block Relations

In the Turkish-American convention held in Washington three days ago, officials and analysts from both countries had predicted the heavy climate.

US officials had underlined the thorns in the two countries' relations and had asked Tayyip Erdogan to publicly tell the Turkish people that the cooperation between Turkey and the USA has important benefits for his country.

They addressed the same appeal to Turkish media to help towards that direction with their stance.

Translated by Sofia Soulioti

[09] 22 Dead Clashes Continue in Ethiopia

By Anna Kourti

Sources: REUTERS

22 civilians were killed, and 170 were wounded during clashes between police and demonstrators in the capital city of Ethiopia, Addis Ababa, according to the latest doctors account. It is the third day of the clashes, aster the results of the controversial legislative elections on May 15. As per governments statement, the civilians were killed during an outbreak of looting which the Opposition parties incited.

Opposition: Fraud During Elections

"CUD, the largest opposition party, which is behind the outbreak of violence, should claim responsibility," said a governments statement.

Opposition accused the ruling party and PM Meles Zenawi of fraud during the elections on May 15.

On its part, the ruling party accused opposition of inciting anarchy and demonstrations despite the ban on demonstrations, which has been in power for a month.

Hundreds, including many university students, have been arrested, and many have been wounded in clashes with the city police and army forces, which arrived on armoured lorries, and tried to resolve the situation.

The British government warned its subjects, with a note issued by the Foreign Office, to be careful when travelling to Ethiopia, because of the unrest and the fear that clashes may expand to other cities.

Translated by Areti Christou

[10] If the Summit for the Budget Fails EU in Danger of Weakening

By Athina Saloustrou

Today, EUs Luxemburg presidency threatened that the European Community is in danger of weakening in case the Brussels Summit Meeting over the budget for the period 2007-2013 fails. Speaking at the European Parliament in Strasburg, Luxemburgs FM Nicholas Schmidt declared that the EU would enter a state of permanent uncertainty, apathy and paralysis. He further noted that Europe has to continue and demonstrate that it has the full capacity to make decisions and take action., adding that if a political agreement for the future Community budget of 2007-2013 is not reached, it would signal a "dangerous dead-end." Following the rejection of the European Constitution by France and the Netherlands, the Luxemburg Presidency is now aiming at achieving an agreement for the budget during the Summit Meeting scheduled for 16 and 17 June.

Translated by Vicky Ghionis

[11] Genes Are the Key to Orgasm

By Despina Hristopoulou

Sources: BBC ANA

Women in the western world have significantly dismissed the image of the fair sex. However, in certain domains, including love, inequality is pretty obvious. As per studies, approximately 12%-15% of women fail to achieve orgasm, whereas the corresponding percentage of men does not exceed 2%. Furthermore, while a woman needs at least 12 minutes to reach orgasm, a man needs only 2,5 minutes. Until recently, scientists claimed that the female weakness in question was mainly due to psychological, cultural and religious reasons. British scientists from the University of Keele and the University of London, however, stated that the secret to female orgasm might be down to their genes. British researchers studied the cases of 4,000 twin women, and found that, as it is the case in heart diseases, stress, depression and genes play an instrumental role to a womans ability to orgasm. The findings of the study appeared in Biology Letters.

Myths Versus Reality

Theories on female orgasm vary. According to some, it helps women find a long-term partner, while others support that it enhances fertility.

Professor Tim Spector, director of the Twin Research Unit at St Thomas' Hospital in London and his colleagues conducted DNA tests on more than 4,000 women aged 19-83, half of whom were identical and half of whom were non-identical twins. They were also asked to fill out a questionnaire concerning their sexual life.

The researchers found that the orgasm frequency was higher to the identical twins, who share the same DNA, which depicted that genes play an important role. Professor Spector said, "We found that between 34 and 45% of the variation in ability to orgasm can be explained by underlying genetic variation," and he added, "There is a biological underlying influence that can't be attributed purely to upbringing, religion or race.

When asked on the reasons that dictate this biological variability regarding orgasm in the two sexes, Mr Spector said," The fact that it's heritable suggests that evolution has a role." Additionally, the findings of the survey suggest that women who achieve orgasm easily do not necessarily need a competent love partner.

It Paves the Way

Should scientists locate the genes that influence orgasm, as well as the way they function, new treatments aiming at women who fail to reach orgasm will be introduced. Dr Margaret Rees, expert in female sexual dysfunction, said, "The findings are interesting but quite simplistic," and she added, " There are many inter-related factors involved, including hypoactive desire, low arousal, problems with orgasm and pain, which cannot be treated with a single drug."

Translated by Areti Christou

Related Links:

Biology Letters

University of London

Keele University

[12] You Give 7 and You Get 100,000! Treasure in Flea Market

By Despina Hristopoulou

Sources: ANE

She went to the flea market to buy a basket for her underwear, and she ended up in possession of more than 100,000 euros. A woman from Bavaria spent seven euros for a second-hand basket. She only had to have the lining changed for it was old, and it smelled off. Shortly after, she realised that this was how much money should smell off, since the baskets lining contained 30,000 German marks in banknotes (approximately 15,300 euros), and two account books with deposits of 170,000 marks (approximately 87,000 euros). She found out that the basket belonged to an old lady who had died two years ago. Although times are hard, she decided to have a clear conscience, and gave the money and the account books to the police, who inform the deceased ladys heirs. As per authorities, the honest woman will be awarded for her action, and she will keep the basket!

Translated by Areti Christou

[13] They Were not Called for the Samina Trial Witnesses for the Prosecution Absent

By Athina Saloustrou

The trial for the multi-fatality shipwreck continued today in the Naval Court of Piraeus. Public Prosecutor Panagiotis Brakoumatsos presented the indictment against all defendants, and the courts President, Nikos Leontis, called the witnesses for prosecution to the stand. However, the witnesses did not proceed for they had not been notified. The lawyer, Vasilis Taouxis, who had filed a lawsuit demanding the prosecution of the company owning "Express Samina" Minoan Flying Dolphins, was the only witness present. The Defence Counsel, Giannis Heriotis, strongly opposed to Vasilis Taouxis testimony, who is also the Prosecution Counsel, claiming that Prosecution Counsels cannot act as witnesses for prosecution. The courts President said, "We got off on the wrong foot."

In the Court of Appeal Starting from Monday

He also announced that Public Prosecution will attend all cases that burden the defendants, except for those regarding mental cruelty, lack of inspection books and lack of passengers registry.

Defendants K.Klironomos and P. Kasdalis were once more absent from todays trial.

The trial was adjourned at 10.30 in the morning, and it will continue on Monday, June 13, in the Athens Court of Appeal, since the courtroom in the Piraeus Naval Court was viewed as unsuitable to host the trial.

Translated by Areti Christou

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