Staikouras: The number of heating allowance beneficiaries is expanding

The number of beneficiaries of the heating allowance is expanding, after the increase of the total amount to 300 million euros from 174 million euros in the last period, as stated by the Minister of Finance Christos Staikouras. According to the minister, the income criteria increase to 16,000 euros from 14,000 euros for the unmarried and to 24,000 euros from 20,000 euros for the married, increased by 3,000 euros for each child. At the same time, the heating oil subsidy at the pump is expected to be 0.25 euros (including VAT) per liter, with a cumulative cost of 250 million euros.

Speaking to ERT1, the minister said that the fund that will be allocated for pensioners amounts to 1.1 billion euros and will concern: the “accuracy check” of 250 euros in December to 2.3 million low-income pensioners (the “check” will receive also uninsured elderly, disabled and long-term unemployed), the permanent abolition of the solidarity contribution and the permanent increase in pensions.

While, when asked about the possibility of subsidizing natural gas, he stated that it is being processed, pending the decisions at the European level.

As Mr. Staikouras said, the fiscal space in 2022 runs out in the heating allowance, the “accuracy check” and electricity subsidies. However, he added that “we have kept the munitions (budget execution course and cash available of around 38 billion euros) to deal with emergency situations as well”.

Finally, he said that based on the latest data, the GDP will increase this year by 5.3% (from 3.1% of the forecast in the budget) against 3.1% of the European average, while in 2023 the growth of the economy will be 2.1% against 0.9% of the European average.

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