There were strong reactions at the meeting of the leaders or representatives of the parties in relation to what was published by “F” about the draft bills concerning the regulation of pension benefits of state officials and multiple pensions.
Through the arrangements proposed by the Government, MPs seem to be “being wronged” for lump sum amount which they will be entitled to, as the amount of tip they currently receive is slightly reduced, through the bill, while for other officials it increases.
According with information from filenews, representatives of the parties expressed during today’s meeting their displeasure with the procedures and handling of the issue of pensions for state officials.
They also mentioned that the bills do not touch all aspects of the issue. Representatives of some parties criticized the procedures followed by the Government, stressing that the bills were not submitted officially and through the proper procedure.
Additionally, there have been protests that the parties are informed through statements made by government officials. The same time, there was discomfort that, as argued, the Government transfers the responsibility to the Parliament but also to the fact that the government side committed to regulate the issue at a time when there are already submitted law proposals in the Parliament by parties. In fact, some of the proposals provide the same as the one piece of legislation prepared by the government side.
The parties are expected to convey their discomfort during the meetings they will have with Finance Minister Makis Keravnos. It is worth noting that the minister has already started contacts with the parties. Today he met with DIKO and from next week there will be meetings with the other parties as well.
As known, the first draft bill provides for the granting of a pension at the age of 65 for active officials, instead of the current 60. The second bill, which deals with multiple pensions, provides that the pension for public office is abolished, offset by an increase in the gratuity received by public officials. At the same time, based on the design, the amount of the lump sum will be in relation to the terms served by the government official.