Panayiotis Rougalas
Over the past half-decade, the salaries of government officials have surged by a notable 17%, shedding light on the expanding state payroll. A comprehensive analysis conducted by "K" from the General Accounting Office reveals a consistent uptick in the gross annual salaries, inclusive of bonuses over 13 months, of state officials since 2019.
These increments have soared annually by over 6.5%, with Members of Parliament claiming some of the most substantial raises. Projections from the General Accounting Office indicate that officials can anticipate robust salary boosts in 2024, marking an increase of up to 6.83% compared to their 2023 earnings.
Intriguingly, while the gross annual salary, including bonuses, of the President of the Republic has seen a commendable double-digit increase, it's the salary of a Member of Parliament/Religious Representative that has witnessed a remarkable 16.99% surge over the last five years. This trend extends to various high-ranking officials, including the Chief of Police and General Directors of Ministries, who have experienced a commendable 16.2% increase in their gross salaries, with an additional 3.33% rise from 2023 to 2024.
Exemplifying precision, the gross annual salary, inclusive of bonuses, of the President of the Republic in 2019 stood at €164,871, reaching an impressive €181,400 in 2024, reflecting a precise 10.01% increment. Equally noteworthy, the President of the House of Representatives observed an identical 10.01% increase, with their 2019 earnings of €131,090 escalating to €144,225 in 2024.
Amidst these shifts, the 2024 Budget unveils fascinating insights. Personnel benefits, encompassing basic salaries, cost-of-living allowances, and special bonuses, are set to ascend by an impressive 15%, culminating in €3.72 billion, a notable increase from the €3.23 billion recorded in 2023. Noteworthy enhancements include heightened contributions to state employees' insurance funds and increased cost-of-living allowances, underlining a dynamic fiscal landscape.
In essence, these increments not only underscore the evolving financial fabric of governmental bodies but also reflect a broader narrative of economic growth and fiscal adaptability.
[This article was translated from its Greek original]
