Greek PM Set to Announce Relief Measures, Tax Cuts in Thessaloniki
A solidarity contribution, tax cuts, as well as insurance payment deferments and retroactive social security benefits are among the measures set to be announced by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis next month as part of the government’s plan to support Greek businessowners, employees and citizens impacted by the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic.
Mitsotakis is scheduled to announce the relief measures on September 12-13 during the Thessaloniki HELEXPO Forum, which replaced this year’s Thessaloniki International Fair (TIF) – canceled due to Covid-19.
Other topics to be addressed during the two-day forum include the effective management of the Covid-19 crisis, including possibly extending the Syn-ergasia job retainment program and the 534-euro benefit for employees out of work due to Covid-19, securing a potential vaccine, autumn support measures, fiscal reforms, and Turkish threats in the Eastern Mediterranean, said Government Spokesman Stelios Petsas speaking on SKAI television.
“The set of measures we are considering does not only include the solidarity contribution, but also reductions in other taxes, which mainly burden employment, in efforts to increase employment. It also includes insurance contributions because non-wage costs increase unemployment and limit employment,” he said.
Petsas added that the prime minister will also announce support measures to help those affected by the coronavirus, as well as a series of permanent measures such as tax cuts and insurance contributions, which will “give a lasting breath to the economy, businesses and households”.
He added that the government was also considering the reduction of the ENFIA property tax.
Petsas also said that a total of 1.5 billion euros in retroactive pension benefits will be released in a lump sum from October to December.
Lastly, Petsas confirmed that once a tested vaccine is secured, priority will be given to the vulnerable groups and health care professionals, and actions will be taken to ensure immediate and regular provision.