Amyras described the PASOK proposal as “undocumented” and “populist”, arguing that it would have a serious impact on the economy.
Sharp criticism of the proposal for a four-day working was levelled by the Director-General of Press and Information at the Prime Minister’s Office, Panos Amyras, speaking on ERTnews Radio 105.8 and the programme “Morning Routes” with Vassilis Adamopoulos and Maria Georgiou.
“Unjustified and burdensome the proposal for 4-day work”
Mr. Amyras described the proposal of PASOK as “undocumented” and “populist”, arguing that it would have a serious impact on the economy.
“It will lead to lockouts for thousands of small and medium-sized enterprises, will increase unemployment and will bring accuracy to the market, as the increased costs will be passed on to the consumer,” he said, stressing that no studies or data were provided.
He also pointed out that such a regulation would mean a 12% to 25% increase in labour costs, at a time when small and medium-sized businesses are calling for a reduction in taxes and contributions.
“PASOK is throwing a firework without consulting the social partners,” he said.
Labour flexibility and the “myth” of 13-hour employment
Mr. Amyras left open the possibility of application in special cases, such as in high productivity enterprises, following agreement between employers and employees.
“The government has already introduced flexibility in working hours, with the possibility of four-day working within the existing framework of hours,” he said.
He also dismissed criticism of the introduction of a 13-hour workday:
“It is a myth, absolutely inaccurate,” he said.
Labour market, growth and the example of Tripoli
Mr. Amyras highlighted that unemployment is at its lowest level in 17 years, with 563,000 new jobs in recent years, as well as increases in basic and average wages.
He also referred to investments that are changing the production model, citing Tripoli as an example:
“The region’s pharmaceutical companies will produce almost 30% of Europe’s pennies, with higher wages and domestic added value,” he said.
Accuracy, energy and support measures
He acknowledged that accuracy remains a key problem, aggravated by the international context and the energy crisis, noting that the price of Brent oil is hovering at $120.
He said the government is moving ahead with support measures with €200 million of fiscal space available and additional interventions of €800 million, while a €1.76 billion tax reform is being implemented.
“No country can deal with a prolonged crisis alone – European tools are also needed,” he said.
Controversy with the opposition and a wiretapping case
Mr. Amyras accused the president of PASOK of “extreme rhetoric”, noting that “the use of underworld terms is not consistent with democratic functioning”.
He stressed that the government has full respect for the judiciary: “The judicial decisions cannot be questioned depending on whether they are liked or not. This is required by the separation of powers,” he stressed.
Summing up. Amyras reiterated that the government’s priority is to strengthen employment, support the economy and improve the daily lives of citizens, “with realistic policies and not with proposals without documentation.”
