ATHENS: Deputy Finance Minister Dimitris Mardas said on Wednesday that state coffers are €350-€400 million short and the government will need extra funds to pay wages and pensions at the end of April.
Speaking at Mega television, Mr. Mardas said that the government needs that amount to cover immediate needs. Public sector wages and pensions in Greece are due on April 24 and April 27. The deputy minister could not hide his worry that these funds will be available on time.
Government officials hope that the funds will be found on time now that the regulation for 100 installments to repay debts to the state is in effect. Revenues from state debtors will probably cover this amount within the next few days, Mr. Mardas said. The deputy finance minister added, however, that if the revenues are not enough, then the government will have to tap into the reserves of municipalities, regions and other state organizations.
