What did OPEKEPE report
“The government and the prime minister have assumed political responsibility for this serious case. We do not underestimate it, “the New Democracy spokesman told SKAI. Alexandra Sedoukou.
Mrs Sedoukou said that this case demonstrates the need for three basic things:
1. Never occupy such a phenomenon of corruption and complexity in agricultural subsidies
2. Return back every euro that was unnecessary.
3. Strengthen transparency in the agricultural sector, without “windows” and to develop agricultural production in our country on new healthy bases.
In response, the government transferred OPEKEPE to the Independent Public Revenue Authority (AADE), enhancing control and preventing similar phenomena in the future.
“The project team that has been set up works intensively on the plan to control and recover the money. The largest amounts are already identified and the process will be moved at a rapid pace. ‘ He stressed.
Mrs Sedoukou also said that Greece would offend the fine of 412m euros imposed by the European Commission, with documented legal reasons, while expressing hope to reduce it.
At the same time, he recalled that they are not isolated and have previously been revealed in areas such as health (prescription), customs, urban planning, police and prisons, showing that the problem has tentacles in various ways.
“The bar has risen very high. Society now has other demands. Yes, there are responsibilities. And as a New Democracy we do not renounce the ones that correspond to us. We had to have done more. As we have done more and in a successful way in other cases of modernizing the state’s image, “admitted Ms Sedoukou.
The New Democracy spokesman, spoke extensively to the migration issue, and in particular the increased flows from Libya to Crete, emphasizing the need for immediate and decisive management at both national and European level.
“The priority of the Greek government is to prevent the consolidation of a new migratory route from Libya to Crete,” he said, underlining the importance of bilateral cooperation with the Libyan authorities to prevent flows.
He made a special reference to the scheduled visit of the Foreign Minister to Tripoli, where the issue of migratory pressures will be clearly raised.
“Our goal is to limit arrivals from Libya. Greece cannot be permanently a gateway to immigrant entry that passes here to reach the rest of Europe. “he noted, adding that a single and effective European response to the problem is required.
He also referred to the difficulties facing Crete, noting that consultation with the local authorities of the island is ongoing so that the situation is managed without disturbing social cohesion.
“The situation in Crete is difficult especially in the midst of the tourist season. Local communities and bodies express their opposition to a closed structure. However, in front of an extraordinary condition, such as the one we are facing, it was imperative for the government and the prime minister to make decisions to protect the country, “he said.
He also stressed that the relevant ministries are in close cooperation with the local government to find the best possible solution, accepted by both local communities and operational operational levels.
In closing, Mrs Sedoukou reiterated the government’s commitment to responsible and realistic management of immigration, without surprise and with full respect for local communities, but also with determination in defending national interests.