PASOK challenges Greek government on debt and fisheries

PASOK leaders are intensifying their political critique of the New Democracy government, focusing on private debt management and the fishing industry.

Regarding private debt, PASOK spokesperson Kostas Tsoukalas criticized the government’s 120-installment plan, labeling it an insufficient communicative measure. He questioned the 5.8% interest rate, the exclusion of certain debts, and the lack of interest write-offs. PASOK announced it will soon submit its own legislative proposal to Parliament, featuring a 3% interest rate and interest/increase cuts.

In Thessaloniki, PASOK President Nikos Androulakis met with fishing industry representatives to address the crisis in the Greek fisheries. He highlighted rising energy and fuel costs, illegal fishing in the Aegean, and an aging fleet. Androulakis called on the government to utilize the METSAF program to subsidize up to 70% of increased fuel costs and proposed energy upgrade programs for the fleet.

Additionally, PASOK is focusing on regional issues, with Manolis Papadopoulos emphasizing the need for better support for the Dodecanese islands regarding housing, water shortages, and VAT reductions.