The government package of measures must not be the only one

Statement by AKEL C.C. Spokesperson Stefanos Stefanou

AKEL C.C. Press Office, 26 March 2020, Nicosia

We are at the end of the process for the approval of the package of measures providing support for the economy, working people and society. AKEL too has made its own contribution by submitting specific proposals and views, but also through its constructive stance.

In these difficult times, we all need to focus on what we agree on and put aside our disagreements. There are several measures in the government’s package of measures that we agree with, but we also have observations, and even certain disagreements. We also consider that other measures should have been included in the package.

We are particularly concerned about the stand taken by the banks, which do not seem willing to make their own substantive contribution towards tackling the problems. This is precisely why AKEL insists on the freezing of loans, but also of foreclosures by law. Given the government’s disagreement with freezing foreclosures by law, AKEL will submit a relative draft Bill to the House of Representatives, which we will activate in case the banks continue to act arbitrarily.

In addition, we will continue to insist that the government issues a “ceiling” on essential goods sand items so that profiteering is tackled. Complaints are being made that the closure of markets and many fruit markets is causing problems for the sale of vegetable products and fruit, and that this is being exploited by specific oligopolies. Something similar is happening with the trading and distribution of meat.

In AKEL’s view, the package approved by Parliament must not be the only one. The government should already have elaborated a comprehensive plan that includes measures and actions to address the effects of the coronavirus crisis depending on how the situation develops and how long it will last.

Furthermore, the government must reflect on how to it should help various professional sectors and groups of the population that are suffering consequences and that are not included in the plans.

AKEL is compiling a list of problems that these groups are facing and will continue to submit concrete proposals.