While EU countries are reducing taxes on energy, the government disregards society’s needs

Statement by AKEL C.C. member Vakis Charalambous

2 September 2022, AKEL C.C. Press Office, Nicosia

One after another EU countries are reducing taxes on fuel and electricity. The DISY-Anastasiades government nevertheless has closed both its eyes and ears.

It is not only squinting at the price hikes that are eroding the family income, but is also turning a deaf ear to the recommendations of the European Commission itself.

From the pockets of citizens, it has collected €862m in extra tax revenues from the beginning of the year until July due to the price hikes/increases. Furthermore, the estimate is that by the end of the year these revenues will exceed €1bn.

It’s time to abandon the excuses and deal with the essence. The government ruling forces have both the means and possibility to return some of this revenue to limit the impact of the much higher energy prices.

The rejection of the decisions approved by the majority of Parliament for a reduction in taxes is not only a rejection of AKEL’s proposals, but an unacceptable disregard for the needs and problems society is facing.