OPINION

Reform the profligate state first

Greek politicians and pundits have over the past couple of years debated whether state employees should be fired or whether they should be placed in a so-called labor reserve scheme (aimed at putting thousands of civil servants on reduced wages ahead of a status review).

As it happens, they have been extremely reluctant to deal with the issue. At the same time, unemployment is sweeping the private sector.

It?s time for some truths; and for some decisions. Those who work for state organizations or bodies that are being shut down have to be placed in some kind of reserve scheme. Furthermore, the state must stop supporting thousands of staff who have committed offenses or who have been suspended.

It is a provocation to see these people receive protection from union groups and disciplinary committees.

Greece?s private sector has paid a hefty price for waste and corruption in the public sector. The real economy will never be able to stand back on its feet unless we first reform our profligate state.

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