The Greek government plans to pay a €150 allowance per child to more than 80% of families in June, according to Deputy Minister to the Prime Minister Thanasis Kontogeorgis, who outlined a range of government priorities during an interview with public broadcaster ERTNews.
Kontogeorgis said the payment forms part of a package of targeted support measures designed to help households cope with economic pressures, particularly amid uncertainty linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and its impact on international energy markets.
“As long as this situation continues and oil prices remain elevated compared with pre-war levels, it requires constant vigilance,” he said, adding that the government has already prepared measures to address potential consequences.
The deputy minister noted that the government remains focused on targeted interventions rather than broad-based spending, emphasizing fiscal responsibility while continuing efforts to improve incomes and support vulnerable groups. He also pointed to additional measures already announced this year, including rent reimbursements and assistance for pensioners, with total support amounting to €800 million.
No Public Safety Risk From Southern Athens Odor
Addressing a separate issue that recently caused concern among residents, Kontogeorgis said investigations into a strong odor reported in southern Athens ruled out any danger to public health.
He noted that authorities responded immediately and concluded that there was no hazardous threat to citizens.
Comments on Defense and Foreign Policy
The deputy minister also addressed questions regarding the deployment of Patriot missile systems, stressing that decisions on the positioning of Greece’s defense assets are made exclusively by the Ministry of National Defense based on national security requirements.
He rejected suggestions that recent decisions regarding the systems were linked to developments in neighboring Turkey, describing such claims as unfounded.
On reports concerning a proposed Turkish legislative initiative, Kontogeorgis said no official information has yet been received by Greece. However, he warned that any move outside the framework of international law would have no legal effect and could undermine efforts to improve bilateral relations.
Elections Expected Next Year
Asked about the timing of the next general election, Kontogeorgis said the vote is expected to take place as scheduled in approximately one year.
He added that the government remains focused on implementing its current agenda while preparing its vision for the country through 2030, with an emphasis on stability, continuity and accelerating reforms in areas where progress has been slower.
