Watch Live: Greek Parliament controversial debate on bill ahead of voting session

The draft bill on 13 prior actions that need to be voted on before Greece can unlock a 1-bln-euro tranche that is part of its bailout agreement with creditors (EC, ECB, ESM, IMF) is being discussed in Greek parliament on Tuesday ahead of a voting session in the evening.

The opposition parties are critical of the fast-track procedures being used by the government to pass the omnibus bill that had been tabled on Saturday. One of the most controversial issues of the bill is the passing of non-performing loans (NPLs), so-called red loans, to distress funds. Those opposed to the bill state that from February 15, home loans and mortgages will also be passed through to market “predators”.

Taking the floor, conservative opposition New Democracy (ND) member Kostis Hatzidakis attacked the Radical Left Coalition (SYRIZA) government concerning its U-turn on the issue of NPLs after SYRIZA’s analogies in the past to distress funds “wolverine ravens of the markets”.

On his part, Economy Minister George Stathakis said it was unfair for the opposition to criticise the SYRIZA government of its change in its position bearing in mind the new elections in September where earlier statements were put aside to proceed to new improvements in many areas.

Socialist PASOK member Andreas Loverdos added fuel to fire when he spoke of an “addiction” that Greek Parliament has regarding fast-track procedures and suggested the government see the French comedy “Paulette” (2012 film about cannabis-selling grandma).

Watch the debate live