Enough! Taxpayers again under pressure to bail out neoliberal system

Citing the proverb "a friend in need is a friend indeed" in the European Parliament debate on the recent informal Council meeting on the financial crisis and the situation in Greece, United Left (GUE/NGL) President Lothar Bisky said the bank and industry rescue plans had meant increased state debt and public service cuts.
 
"Following the state rescue packages for the banks, it is now precisely these banks who are speculating against state finances. This is speculation with taxpayers' money, particularly the money of the honest taxpayers who do not have any Swiss bank accounts, those who are already struggling to make ends meet" he said.
 
Greek MEP Nikolaos Chountis said that workers in Greece were taking to the streets in anger and frustration at the harsh measures taken by the Greek Government following EU pressure. "Instead of this, the European Council should take measures to support the weaker economies, and take steps to put an end to speculation. These current measures are a mere precursor for similar action in other countries."
 
Also from Greece, Charalampos Angourakis referred to widespread disapproval for the Council's conclusions. "EU governments and the Commission are trying to threaten workers throughout the EU. Workers are responding with massive strikes and demonstrations, fighting for a people's economy and people power."