The Ministry of National Economy Asks for a refund of 45m euros from the Regions of Attica, Peloponnese and Cretedue to over -priced supplies in the so -called ‘recycling houses»They have been placed in recent years in public places, such as squares.
The supply of recycling polycelets began in 2020 at the initiative of the Attica Region, which spent around € 48 million on the installation of 130 points. Subsequently, similar projects were also implemented by the Peloponnese Regions (58 points with € 17.4 million) and Crete (60 points with € 18 million), raising the total cost to EUR 83 million. The project was funded by European funds.
In 2023, at the request of the European Commission, the Committee on Financial Audit (EDEL) carried out a control of the contract, with the original finding issued at the end of the same year and an additional audit being completed in the summer of 2025. At the same time, a report is expected by independent accountants, a report by independent Management of the Patouli period.
Main findings of checks:
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The two companies that participated in the competition were essentially the same, as the Greek delegation was operating on behalf of the American.
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The technical specifications of the competition were “photographic”, designed to exclude competition and favor this supplier.
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No market research was preceded, with the cost of reaching 300,000 euros per unit, when similar units are available on the market for about 90,000 euros.
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There was a mismatch between the purpose of the project (recycling of packaging) and the nature of the houses purchased (for recycling materials such as glass and paper).
The finding of the management audit has already been forwarded to the financial prosecutor. EDEL proposes a 50%fiscal correction, and the Ministry of Finance has called for the return of funds to the European Commission.
Extensions and possible political involvement
The case is now being investigated by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office, and information – though unconfirmed – say that there may be involvement of politicians, including former ministers. If this is confirmed, the issue is likely to reach the House, as has been the case with the OPEKEPE case recently.