More time needed in private schools-VAT issue, sources say
Recently appointed Education Minister Nikos Filis was expected to make announcements on Thursday regarding the implementation of a 23 percent VAT on private schools' services, Kathimerini understands. According to Kathimerini sources, Filis was expected to ask for more time regarding the issue, in order for the government to come up with alternative measures.
The measure, which was agreed between the previous SYRIZA-Independent Greeks coalition as part of the third bailout signed with the country’s creditors, was frozen prior to the general election held on September 20. Prior to the election, SYRIZA said it would scrap the measure if re-elected.
According to official figures, 239 private schools currently operate across Greece, hosting about 85,000 pupils. The private education sectors employees about 30,000 people, out of whom 10,000 are teaching staff and 20,000 are administrative employees.
Speaking to Kathimerini the head of the parents coordinating committee Ioakeim Kallivroutsis, estimated that about 20,000 children would exit private schools if VAT was to be introduced.
