The Hellenic Radio (ERA): News in English, 10-02-09

The Hellenic Radio (ERA): News in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article

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

CONTENTS

[01] Cabinet Meeting on Taxation & Income Policy

The Inner Cabinet during Tuesday's informal but particularly crucial meeting chaired by Prime-minister George Papandreou, gave "green light" for review in wages, pension and taxation. The government is most likely to reach final decisions on taxation and income policies the latest till Friday. Decisions on measures to be taken are the "weapons" the Prime-minister will take along to the extraordinary EU Summit meeting to be held on Thursday, in Brussels. Furthermore, the Employment Minister presented proposals for reforms in social security on Tuesday.

According to reports, reforms in taxation system provides for big reversals in income and large property taxation putting in force a single taxation scale, linking of tax-free income with collection of receipts, abolition of tax reliefs and flat taxation of income, full inspection of source of income, objective criteria for free lance professionals and reintroduction of large property tax (FMAP).

Income policy for 2010 provides for freeze in wages in the public sector and DEKO as well as 5%-20% cuts in allowances to civil servants. A 10% cut in all allowances is also being examined. On Monday, in his speech at the Parliament, the Prime-minister stressed: "Greek people have proved again today that we are united against a major threat, a crisis developed by effuse, intransparent and selfish policies". He added :"It is optimistic that people once again show their maturity, undertaking their responsibility for the country's exit from the crisis. We should all "applaud" them for their courage and socially responsible stand".

Sources: ÍÅÔ, ÍÅÔ 105.8, ÁNA-ÌPA Relevant Article: Taxation- Income Policies at Final Stage

News item: 33082

The Hellenic Radio (ERA): News in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article