Greek government’s work seems delayed ahead of the arrival of IMF/EU/ECB officials and
the finalization of the additional measures.The postponement of the formal presentation of the plan against tax evasion for Monday is only one example of the stalemate in governmental work lately. Information for consecutive meetings of Greek Prime Minister with ministers has been falsified.
The image remains blurry regarding the issue of arbitrary buildings, while privatization and real estate development program seems delayed. Additionally, the announcement of details for the additional measures is still pending.
Senior government officials interpret the delay as an attempt to lower the voices of internal opposition in order to introduce the multi-bill of €76m measures before the Parliament by May 15.
The dispute between Finance Minister and Environment Minister on the issue of arbitrary buildings is just an example. Differences between ministers have also reported regarding the issues of privatizations and interventions in public enterprises, social benefits, insurance and even the restructuring of Greek debt.
Several ministers and ruling party officials prefer to keep a low profile also because of growing speculation about a cabinet reshuffle. Prime Minister’s intentions are unknown and even an extreme scenario of early elections shouldn’t be ruled out.
It is estimated that the scheduled for Tuesday arrival of troika would smooth the differences. The finalization of measures to be implemented in 2011 (estimated at €3b so far) is expected, while each minister will negotiate with troika the efficiency and adequacy of measures in the medium-term package.
Regarding multi-bill, government will follow the same tactics, avoiding firm commitments related to the sources of revenues in the coming years.
SOURCE: CAPITAL
