Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has touted a sharp drop in wholesale energy prices and defended a controversial labor reform bill, using his weekly social media address to set the government's agenda ahead of the Thessaloniki International Fair.
Mr. Mitsotakis noted that wholesale electricity prices in August were 29% lower than a year ago and warned suppliers that the government would intervene if these savings are not passed on to consumers. He also rejected opposition claims that a new labor bill abolishes the eight-hour workday, stating it instead protects and regulates lawful overtime to allow workers to increase their income.
In a review of recent government actions, the prime minister highlighted preparations for the new school year, including the hiring of 10,000 permanent teachers and the symbolic reopening of a one-room school on the remote island of Pserimos.
He also cited progress in healthcare, pointing to upgrades in hospital emergency departments.
Mr. Mitsotakis also pointed to regional development projects, including the success of the new Thessaloniki Metro and a historic overhaul that consolidates over 170 separate urban planning laws into a single modern code.
The wide-ranging review is seen as a preview of the detailed policy announcements Mr. Mitsotakis is expected to make during his keynote address at the Thessaloniki International Fair next weekend.