Romanian Social Democrats, Liberals Disagree On Issues Concerning Confiscated Property
The Romanian ruling Social Liberal Union, a political alliance between social democrats and liberals, has not yet found common ground on the confiscation of property obtained illegally.
While social democrats say article 44 of the Constitution regarding property may be amended, liberals disagree.
Prime Minister Victor Ponta argues in favor of selling confiscated property. (Curentul)
Romanian PM Says He Wants To Unblock Shale Gas Exploration Projects
Romanian Prime Minister Victor Ponta said Monday he wants to unfreeze “large economic projects blocked by many years,” including shale gas investments, which may secure Romania’s independence from gas imports from Russian Gazprom.
Shale gas exploration in Romania will use conventional methods, which pose no threats to the environment.
Romania’s government will have to take a decision regarding exploitation if research proves the country has shale gas resources, Ponta said. (Curentul)
PM: Romania Must Allot RON250M For Project Lowering VAT On Bread
Prime Minister Victor Ponta said Monday Romania will have to allot 250 million lei (EUR57.8 million) to apply a project lowering the value added tax on bread from 24% to 9%.
The International Monetary Fund told the Government not to rely on the idea the VAT cut would be offset by reducing tax evasion in the bread industry, and find additional revenue resources to cover the loss the measure would trigger, Ponta explained.
According to the prime minister, the project might be applied after the budget revision in July. (Adevarul)
Over 1,500 Postal Workers Staged Spontaneous Protest In Bucharest
Over 1,500 postal workers in Bucharest staged spontaneous protests Monday displeased with the postal company Posta Romana’s decision to reduce the work program and lay off employees.
The company said in April it would lower its staff numbers and employees’ wages, following a slump in activity both domestically and internationally. The postal operator said it was looking for ways to keep wages balanced to the workload, which has been reduced.
In 2011, the company’s turnover stood at of RON1.26 billion, down 8.7% on the year, and losses climbed 50% to RON182.9 million. (Curentul)