Through measured and targeted measures, the government is addressing the increased needs of citizens by boosting their disposable income. This message was conveyed by the Deputy Minister of National Economy and Finance, George Kotsiras, speaking today, Wednesday, May 27, on the program “Atairisto” on SKAI TV .
George Kotsiras initially referred to the extension of the diesel fuel subsidy for the month of June, noting that this is a measure that has already proven effective and follows “a range of initiatives” to support the economy and society in the face of the turmoil caused by the war in Iran. The support for families, amounting to 150 euros per child starting in June, falls within this same framework.
“We understand the needs of Greek society, and within the limits of what is fiscally feasible—as we have done so far—we are choosing targeted measures to support Greek society and the Greek market,” he noted.
He further emphasized that “all of this is the result of the Greek economy’s positive trajectory, which we built with great effort, ” while noting that “at the same time, we are paying off a significant portion of the public debt” to prevent similar crises in the future.
At the same time, he noted that the effort to boost citizens’ disposable income is being implemented through both permanent and temporary support measures, citing, for example, tax cuts—particularly direct taxes for families with children and young people—as well as support for renters, retirees, and the Greek provinces.
Subsequently, the Deputy Minister of National Economy and Finance referred to three important provisions for addressing private debt, which are included in the new bill from the Ministry of National Economy and Finance that will soon be submitted to Parliament.
The provisions concern the option to settle debts existing as of December 31, 2023, in 72 installments, the lifting of bank account seizures for debts owed to the State following payment of 25% of the amount and a payment plan for the remainder, as well as the reduction of the threshold for eligibility for the out-of-court settlement mechanism from 10,000 to 5,000 euros.
As Giorgos Kotsiras explained, “we want to help improve the liquidity of many businesses and fellow citizens who were unable to use their accounts for their transactions.” He added that “these are three measures” that will be added to the existing ones and will help citizens who wish to remain consistent in meeting their obligations.
“We are giving them a second chance,” he noted, while also emphasizing that a culture of payment is being ensured.