Brussels, 22/07/2011 (Agence Europe) - While welcoming the EU's commitment for a growth strategy for Greece, the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC) says, on Friday 22 July that moves to lower interest rates and to offer longer repayment terms for countries in difficulty are sending positive signals. However, it adds, a more comprehensive approach remains necessary. ETUC General Secretary Bernadette Ségol met Commission President José Manuel Barroso on Friday 22 to discuss Commission plans for the growth strategy.
The unions are calling for a more long term strategy including eurobonds, a financial transaction tax to support investments and jobs, the end of tax havens and tax evasion and a minimum common rate for company taxation.
In a press release, Ségol states: “EU leaders have, at long last, admitted that austerity is not working and that a growth strategy is necessary. Unused structural funds should serve for growth and jobs. Trade unions should be involved”. (G.B./transl.rt)