Greek parliament passes second bill with prior actions to unlock bailout funding

Greek parliament on Friday passed a second critical omnibus bill containing prior actions required by international lenders to unlock fresh bailout funding to the debt-laden country in coming weeks.

The draft bill included a new series of austerity measures such as an increase on the tax of diesel used by farmers for agricultural purposes, which caused their strong reactions. It was approved by a vote of 153-118 in the 300-member strong assembly.

In mid-October, lawmakers approved a first similar multi-bill to pave the way for the release of 3 billion euros from the new third bailout program by the end of the year.

In order to ensure the flow of further aid Athens has pledged to give, a new pension system reform by early December and the recapitalization of Greek banks by the end of the year are also required so that talks on debt relief can start.

The government argued that the new round of harsh policies was unavoidable in order to lead the country back to growth with lenders' help after six years of debt crisis and deep recession.

Trade unions and various social groups have responded with a new culminating wave of strike actions. Students of high schools and universities took to the streets for a second time this week to protest cuts on education funding.

Pensioners and disabled people in the country also held rallies this week against cuts on pensions and social benefits. Endi