I think the European Commission got some kind of cold feet over the possibility of Greece’s coalition government collapse. While the European Commission declared that it was up to national governments to take decisions over public broadcasters, it urged coalition leaders to keep the political stability and fiscal adjustment program.
During a regular press conference, EC spokesman Olivier Bailly said:
“Political leaders in Greece need to demonstrate responsibility so that there is continuation of political stability and economic adjustment in Greece. ”
Asked about the shock shutdown of public broadcaster ERT, Bailly said that in accordance with the protocol of the Treaty of Amsterdam, “the management of public broadcasting is the responsibility of the member – states.”
However at the same time, he stressed the importance of pluralism in media of EU member states as it is essential for the democratic principles of the EU “.
Olivier Bailly underlined underlined that the European Commission took note of “the commitment of the Greek government to establish soon a new public service broadcasting” and that the EC continues to monitor developments. ”
Bailly’s comments came just hours before the crucial meeting of prime minister Antonis Samaras with his coalition government partners Venizelos (PASOK) and Kouvelis (Democratic Left). The three are to meet at 7:30 p.m. on Monday to discuss about what it seems the future of their political cooperation. Samaras’ partners oppose his decision to shutdown the public broadcaster and they accuse him of taking important decisions without consulting them, without their consent.
ERT threatens indeed the fragile cohesion of the Greek government.
I do not need to mention extra that the ERT-crisis has paralyzed the whole government.
PS just when the European Union solved the Euro-Crisis, these crazy Greeks put it at risk again….
