Fotis Kouvelis to the Associated Press: DIMAR does not want elections
"We do not want elections. If Mr. Samaras selects the elections leading things the way he does, then he should take full responsibility, "says the chairman of the Democratic Left, Fotis Kouvelis, in an interview with Associated Press, on the course of events in ERT. He also notes that the governmental intra friction is not only the result of the Samaras decision to shut down the public broadcaster.
"The existing friction is not only related to the issue of ERT, is related to more comprehensive issues that have emerged; issues of different opinions, and also contrasts that must be addressed. We want to have a common political ground to stand on, a coordination of government work, respect between the three parties supporting the government, in order to ensure the success of government work. Therefore, it is not our choice to lead the country to elections and it is definitely not our choice to not address all these issues that are of different sizes and contrary views, "says Mr Kouvelis.
The leader of DIMAR reiterates, however, that the ERT is in need of rationalization and restructuring, but must be 'open' and ' all those settings that will actually face very real problematic situations in the public television and radio must be promoted. "
When asked about a possible interim solution (ERT to close and re-open in 10 days with some redundancies), he clarifies that for DIMAR "this is not a possible compromise."
"What is imperative for us, is the broadcasting of the TV and radio. They must both function normally and certainly without delay to promote restructuring. It is not just for travel agents, journalists, technicians. This is a more global issue that is related to the need for streamlining the functioning of public radio and public television, "adds Mr. Kouvelis.