Employers' & GSEE’s common “no” to wage cuts

GSEE remains firm in its position, rejecting the "freezing" of the minimum wage, maturation and earnings that are set by sectoral contracts, a demand set forth by all three employers' bodies. There is agreement on other key issues.

The minimum agreement of the social partners will be sent to the prime minister and the political leaders to strengthen the government’s position against the Troika requirements.

In addition, the partners sought to begin a tripartite dialogue with the government on the issue of levy reduction and find a solution to the problems arising from bureaucracy and taxes, which increase non-wage costs for businesses.

After three hours of discussions at the offices of SEV, the social partners have stopped to announce their agreement, and they will continue their consultations.

GSEE president Yannis Panagopoulos said: "The government should not be allowed to withdraw in a disorderly manner after the unreasonable demands of the Troika. We do not accept a freeze, because wages are not responsible for competitiveness."

SEV president Dimitris Daskalopoulos criticized the government handling of public spending, insisted on not giving the increases and hinted that there is a provision in the agreement specifically for the unemployed.

GSEVEE president Assimakopoulos stressed that the social partners "will not make a mess", like the governments did, and EERA chairman Korkidis defended the wage freeze and said that the social partners are arming the government against the Troika’s demands.