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Athens News Agency: News in English, 08-07-31
CONTENTS
[01] Controversial amendment passed
[02] Samothrace fire put out
[01] Controversial amendment passed
The economy and finance ministry's amendment to the money-laundering
bill, which introduces a tougher employment regime for newly-hired
staff in loss-making state enterprises and makes it more like that
of the private sector, was passed by the second summer session of
Parliament on Thursday.
The amendment was passed by 58 votes for and 48 votes against, with
ruling New Democracy MPs voting in favour and the opposition parties
voting against.
It also abolishes the right of the parties involved in collective
labour negotiations to unilaterally apply for arbitration and allows
the government to set a cap on maximum percentage pay rises for
state enterprises that are "in the red".
Caption: ANA-MPA file photo of the Greek parliament
[02] Samothrace fire put out
A sudden change in the direction of the wind in the early morning hours
on Thursday, in combination with the coordinated efforts of firemen and
local people, contributed to the relatively quick containment of the
wildfire that had threatened the village Alonia on the north Aegean
island of Samothrace overnight. The fire was put out by strong
firefighting forces and special machinery that arrived on the island
from the coastal city of Alexandroupoli, northeast Greece, assisted by
water-dropping aircraft. Strong winds continue to blow in the region
and firefighting forces remain on the island for precautionary reasons
for fear of it rekindling. The extent of the disaster caused has not
been assessed yet and according to local authorities, the likelihood of
the fire being caused by arson has not been ruled out.
Caption: ANA-MPA file photo
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