Greek Parliament approves 2024 budget amid debates and criticisms

·

In a significant parliamentary session, the Greek Parliament has given the green light to the state budget for the year 2024, with 158 votes in favour.

Notably, this marks the first budget following a 14-year period during which Greece regained its investment grade credit rating, according to Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.

The budget allocates increased funds for defence, presidency expenses, and includes a surprising 20 per cent boost in healthcare worker allowances.

The approval was not without its share of debates, as opposition parties expressed concerns and criticisms.

The President of the SYRIZA-Progressive Alliance’s parliamentary group, Sokratis Famellos, accused the government of attempting to paint a picture of prosperity that does not align with the reality citizens are experiencing, citing high prices as the most significant challenge.

PASOK-Movement for Change leader Nikos Androulakis criticised the government’s policies, emphasising the perceived low quality of life resulting from their decisions.

In response, Prime Minister Mitsotakis defended the budget, highlighting Greece’s improved economic indicators, including a growth rate of 2.4 per cent, unemployment below 10 per cent, reduced public debt, increased investments and exports, and a 15 per cent rise in the average wage.

He reassured citizens that the government’s focus is on stable and sustainable wage increases, and he reiterated the commitment to a minimum wage of 950 euros and an average wage of 1,500 euros.

The debate also touched on the impact of high prices on citizens. Mitsotakis acknowledged the issue but presented a plan to address it, emphasising the importance of a dynamic, outward-looking economy. He highlighted Greece’s political stability, increased economic extroversion, and the availability of funds from the Recovery Fund.

As the budget passed, Mitsotakis outlined the government’s commitments: preventing economic adventures, ensuring daily improvements, fostering unity with Europe, and modernising the state to meet contemporary challenges. The investment grade, he stated, symbolises national self-awareness and the opportunity to showcase the best of Greece.

Source: Protothema.gr and Amna.gr.

greek film festival 2025

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Step into the world of mental health with Georgia Cassimatis’ latest book

Greek Australian author and journalist, Georgia Cassimatis, has released a book all about exploring the world of mental health.

GOCNSW Welfare Service to put a spotlight on cyber security awareness

The Greek Orthodox Community of NSW’s (GOCNSW) Welfare Service has organised three Cyber Security Awareness education and training workshops.

Marriage of a Greek woman abroad: What to watch out for

It is during this registration process that numerous problems arise, which are not dealt with immediately but later on.

Athena Competition Greek winners show olive oil diversity

By Lisa Radinovsky from Greek Liquid Gold. At the 10th anniversary edition of the ATHENA International Olive Oil Competition in Chania, Crete, Greece in May, 175 Greek olive oils...

Greece’s island communities face population crisis

The demographic decline in Greece is hitting its islands hard, with Lemnos and Agios Efstratios showing alarming signs of aging populations.

You May Also Like

Passion for Art and will to adapt: This is how Vergos Auction House is navigating through the pandemic

Vergos Auction House Managing Director, Andreas Vergos, talks to TGH about art and how his business is navigating through the pandemic.

Record turnout at Macquarie Uni as students receive Certificates of Attainment in Greek

The Award Ceremony of the Certificate of Attainment in the Greek Language 2023 took place at Macquarie University on Friday, February 2, 2024.

Greece becomes first country in Europe to ban bottom trawling in marine parks

Greece has become the first country in Europe to prohibit bottom trawling in all national marine parks and protected areas.