Greek Parliament Approves Law to Upgrade Land Border Checkpoints and Improve Local Government Management
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Loading... - Amanda Bennet
- 15 Oct 2024
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The Greek Parliament recently passed a new law aimed at upgrading land border crossing facilities and enhancing the management and operation of municipal and regional authorities. The draft legislation, titled "Regulations for Mainland Border Checkpoints, the Enhancement of Local Government Entities, and Other Decrees," was submitted by the Ministry of the Interior.
The new law facilitates necessary upgrades and enhancements to land border crossing facilities, addressing the increasing road traffic during the tourism season. Greek Interior Minister Theodoros Livanios emphasized the importance of improving the current situation at border stations, stating that the existing conditions are not suitable for a European state like Greece.
Under the new law, 6 million euros have been allocated for upgrading the Kipi border facilities in the Evros regional unit, with similar improvements planned for Kastanies and Evzoni. These upgrades aim to improve services, minimize queues, and enhance the overall tourism experience for visitors entering and exiting Greece through its land borders.
The law also focuses on improving the management and operation of municipal and regional authorities. It enables local government entities to reach agreements with citizens who have outstanding debts, allowing repayment in up to 60 installments. This measure is expected to help address the 3.6 billion euros in debts owed to municipalities and local water and sewage companies.
Interior Minister Livanios highlighted that vulnerable debtors will have access to more favorable arrangements based on objective criteria. The new law represents the latest major legislative initiative for local government by the Ministry of Interior, ahead of drafting the forthcoming Uniform Local Government Code, which is expected to be presented to Parliament in 2025.
The upgrades to border checkpoints and improvements in local government management are expected to have a positive impact on Greece's tourism industry and local economies. By enhancing services and streamlining processes at border stations, the new law aims to improve the overall tourism product and attract more visitors to Greece.
Additionally, the debt repayment agreements will help alleviate financial pressures on citizens and local government entities, fostering a more stable and supportive environment for economic growth and development.
