Friday, April 30, 2010

Greeks Face Tax, Pensions and Pay Misery in Austerity Plan

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Photograph: Times Online

TIMES ONLINE: An increase in the retirement age from 53 to 67, a three-year wage freeze and cuts in public sector pay are understood to be among the austerity measures agreed to by the Greek Government in exchange for a €24 billion (£21 billion) rescue package.

The measures include severe cuts in Civil Service wages, with public servants losing their “13th and 14th” months’ salary and pension entitlements, a reduction of state benefits and tax increases on alcohol and tobacco to help cut the deficit. >>> Emily Ford | Friday, April 30, 2010