Feb 13 • 15:54 UTC 🇬🇷 Greece To Vima

Collective Agreements: The bill was voted in favor by 158, against 134

The Greek Ministry of Labor's bill on collective agreements was approved by parliament, despite heavy criticism from opposition parties.

The Greek parliament completed a nominal vote on the Ministry of Labor's bill concerning collective agreements, where the government secured a slim approval of 158 votes in favor and 134 against from a total of 292 voting members. This legislation has been highly contentious, particularly in the context of a scandal involving a prominent figure, Giannis Panagopoulos, which has sparked intense criticism and debate among opposition parties, notably between New Democracy and PASOK.

In her closing speech, Minister Niki Kerameus defended the bill against the backdrop of mounting criticisms, accusing opposition parties of showing "embarrassment" in their arguments. She countered claims for the bill's withdrawal due to the ongoing legal issues surrounding Panagopoulos, asserting the principle of the presumption of innocence while emphasizing that the national social agreement cannot be based on individual accusations but is instead made with partners. Her remarks aimed to reinforce the notion of legislative integrity amid public outcry related to the accusations against Panagopoulos.

The discourse surrounding the bill reflects deeper political tensions in Greece, particularly regarding labor rights and the accountability of public figures. The approval of the bill, despite opposition critiques, underscores the ruling government's determination to advance its legislative agenda, possibly foreshadowing further political confrontations as the implications of this legislation ripple through civil society and future labor relations in Greece.

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