Hatzidakis: ELTA Faces Viability Issues, Recovery Plan Agreed

Deputy Prime Minister Kostis Hatzidakis stated that Hellenic Post (ELTA) is facing viability issues and that the implementation of a recovery plan has been agreed upon. The statements were made in an interview on the OPEN television station.

Mr. Hatzidakis emphasized that the postal service market is in decline throughout Europe. He mentioned that post office branches are closing, and interventions have already been made in Greece by replacing branches with agencies.

Regarding why ELTA cannot be supported by the state budget, he explained that since 2008, they have been operating in the free market, and state subsidies are not allowed by the European Union. He added that the state can only provide subsidies for the universal service, but competitor appeals to the European Commission have created problems.

Mr. Hatzidakis also mentioned that the Action Plan for OPEKEPE has been sent to the European Commission, and he expressed confidence that progress will be made without disruptions.