The highest priority for the government is to tackle unemployment, through a coordinated effort that has begun to deliver the first positive and promising results, said Minister of Labour and Social Insurance Zeta Emilianidou in her message on Labour Day.

According to a PIO announcement, the Minister noted that unemployment has fallen from 15.9% in 2013 to 12.9% in 2016 and a significant number of citizens have returned to the labour market.

At the same time, she said that efforts to revive the labour market and reduce unemployment are continuing, and in this context there are currently ten employment and training plans.

The Minister also referred to government support for vulnerable groups through the application of the minimum guaranteed income scheme, which meets the basic living and housing needs of families and people who either lack sufficient resources or are disabled.

“The government goal is to ensure social cohesion and provide opportunities for vulnerable groups integration into the social and economic life of the country through an anthropocentric approach and treatment,” she added.

The Minister pointed out that particular emphasis is placed on strict labour market control, aiming to protect workers` rights, safeguard employment conditions, equal treatment at work and combating and tackling illegal and undeclared work.

With regard to these issues, she added, the Government continues to amend and update existing legislation to improve it.

Emilianidou assured that the Government will continue its efforts for economic recovery, the protection of workers` rights and support of vulnerable groups.