The Hellenic Radio (ERA): News in English, 06-01-18

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From: The Hellenic Radio (ERA) <www.ert.gr/>

CONTENTS

[01] In Paris, France K. Bourboulia Arrested

By Vagelis Theodorou

On Wednesday noon, former investigator Konstantina Bourboulia was arrested by the French police, as she had been convicted in May over participation in the extrajudicial ring. Mrs Bourboulia, who had been convicted on her handlings as an investigator in the Stock Exchange case, disappeared from Greece and a European arrest warrant had been pending for the past three months. The extradition procedure to Greece is expected to commence shortly, and is estimated that it will last 60 days. The arrest was made at an apartment in the French capital after collaboration by the Greek and French police authorities. As per sources, the former investigator had visited other countries and had recently returned to Paris, while the authorities were aware of her movements through telephone calls and credit cards. Minister of Public Order Giorgos Voulgarakis congratulated the Chief of Greek Police, Lieutenant General Georgios Aggelakos, and asked him to convey his gratitude to the French Chief, while he held a relevant discussion with French Ambassador to Greece, Bruno Delaye.

Wanted since September

The former investigator was wanted following an arrest warrant issued last September by the Appellate investigator of the extrajudicial ring, Giannis Sideris, over charges of legalising revenues by an illegal activity and breach of power.

The first accusation concerned amounts of money reportedly received during the exercise of her duties (the Stock Exchange case), aimed at favouring specific defendants, while the money was reportedly deposited in Swiss bank UBS.

Recently, the relevant Court of Bern accepted the demand of the Greek authorities on the opening of her accounts and the case is expected to be taken to the High Court of Lausanne by an unappealable decision.

The accusation over breach of power concerned an intervention, attributed to the former investigator, on a dispute between businessmen in the Stock Exchange case, as well as omissions in the investigations over an explosion in a fuel station in Athens, with one casualty.

Mrs Bourboulia was convicted last July by the Three Member Appellate Misdemeanours Court and sentenced to 3 years and 10 months on charges of breach of duty and bribery, while she had also been convicted to 7 months imprisonment on the charges of not submitting an assets declaration.

It is noted that on March 2003 she had submitted her resignation from the judicial body citing health reasons.

"Purgation is Continuing"

Minister of Justice Anastasis Papaligouras described the arrest of the former investigators as a great success and noted, "The Greek Justice will run its course in order for the foreseen urgent procedure of the European Warrant to be completed and the wanted person to be handed over to Greece. In any case, I consider that soon enough the former investigator will face Justice." Moreover, he stated that Bourboulias arrest opens an important chapter for purgation in Justice.

Translated by Eirene Nisiriou

[02] Roof Invades Borders

By Vagelis Theodorou

The roof of a hotel on the borders of Austria and the Czech Republic has become the object of a border dispute for the last year and a half, causing hassles to the local authorities, while the owner has been ordered to tear part of it down. As it turns out, the roof violates the borders of the Czech Republic, while, when it rains, water from the hotel roof falls into Czech territory violating an international agreement, which requires a one-metre-wide vacant belt on both sides of the border. However, the hotel owner, Dietmar Hehenberger, is refusing to tear down even part of the roof, adding that expensive solar panels have been installed there and their relocation would cost him over 20,000 euros. "I have not caused the problem. So why should I have to pay dearly for someone elses mistake?" demanded Hehenberger, who further noted that five years ago, the Austrian building authorities approved his plans to construct a new wing. "The case is no triviality, but an example of a state border violation and it cannot be swept under the carpet," declared a spokesman for the Czech Interior Ministry, claiming that Austria is responsible for rectifying the situation and possibly compensating the owner.

Translated by Vicky Ghionis

Read the story on other sources:

Prague Daily Mirror: Austrian hotel has part of roof in Czech Republic

[03] Reduces Sexual Activities by 50% Throw the TV Out

By Annita Paschalinou

Sources: Reuters

Are you one of the people who have a TV set in their bedroom? Do you turn your back to your partner to watch your favourite show or run to the bedroom to cuddle up with your telly? If you belong in one of the above categories or are planning on buying a set for the bedroom, then you better think about it twice. An Italian survey revealed that couples who have a TV in their bedroom treat it as a third person in their relationship, thus reducing the frequency of sexual intercourse by half.

Third Wheel

The survey was conducted on a sample of 523 couple living in Italy and it demonstrated that couples who have a TV set in their bedroom have sex half as often as those who dont.

On average, the Italians who do not have a TV set in their bedroom have sex twice a week or eight times per month. On the other hand, the average drops to four times per month for those who declared that they have a TV in the room.

Things are even worse for those over 50, as the frequency of sexual intercourse drops to 1.5 times per month.

In addition, the survey showed that certain programmes are also likely to affect the frequency of sexual intercourse.

Violent films will put a stop to sexual relations for half of all couples, while reality shows stem passion for a third of couples.

Translated by Vicky Ghionis

[04] With G. Papandreou on the Review No Differences in Views

By Vicky Keleri

Sources: NET

Evangelos Venizelos denied that there is a difference in views between the President of PASOK and himself, in relation to the Review of the Constitution, regardless of not adhering to George Papandreous advice to his partys members, to not reply to the Governments proposals on the issue. In particular, the MP commenting on the Prime Ministers proposals spoke of a repetition of the 2001 Constitution. In the meantime, he noted that in the context of the Constitution, he will speak as "a politician and not as a legal adviser or a scientific associate of PASOK." He also clarified that he will not participate in any of the partys committees, in relation with the Constitutions Review, and that from now on he will voice his views only to the Political Council.

Demand for Programming Conference

The view that PASOK should proceed to a programming conference after the Municipal elections, in order for the partys positions to be clarified in view of national elections, voiced Akis Tsochatzopoulos.

President of Greek General Confederation of Workers (GSEE) Christos Polyzogopoulos spoke of a more organised opposition with programming positions.

Translated by Eirene Nisiriou

Related News:

The Premier's Meetings

Opposition's Comments on the Review

Review in Parliament

[05] On Public Sector's Demands Papoulias ADEDY Meeting

Sources: NET, ANA

At noon, President of the Republic Karolos Papoulias met with the Presidency of the Union of Greek Civil Servants. During the meeting Mr Papoulias was briefed on the demands of the Unions in the Public Sector and over the new salary scale and the introduction of heavy and hazardous receipt stamps. The Unionists noted that Public Services are affected by ideas over the rule of the market and underlined that they are aimed at the independence of Public Administration and the upgrade of Public Services. Moreover, they developed their positions against the proposal for the abolishment of permanent working status, which will be included in the Review of the Constitution.

Mr Papoulias spoke of a "very interesting period. I see many discussions taking place, many proposals on the table. It is positive that we are meeting at this time and I want to listen and see your thoughts, as well as how you view the prospects." Mr Papaspyros replied: I believe that you have a special sensitivity on these issues."

The President of ADEDYs Executive Board stated that Public Sector employees are open-minded and consider that Public Administration constitutes an advantage and has an open future. Moreover, he noted that the employees are facing many challenges. "Knowledge, technology, education and employment terms are crucial issues for Public Administration in this competitive environment and in the existing situations, as well as for the employees and the country," noted Mr Papaspyros.

Translated by Eirene Nisiriou

[06] Key is Collaboration of All Inspective Bodies Non-Stop Market Checks

By Vicky Keleri

Sources: NET

Market inspections are continuing in an intensive pace, following the latest cases of unsuitable meat. Moreover, checks in super markets are also intensifying. In the meantime, the Ministry of Development is appointing 200 inspectors, though a Manpower Employment Organisations (OAED) programme, while another 100 veterinarians will conduct checks in the markets in the following months. "We are reinforcing Municipalities with equipment and technical infrastructure, refrigerator vans and mobile units in collaboration with the Food Control Agency (EFET)," noted General Secretary for the Consumer Thanasis Skordas. On his part, Athens Prefect Giannis Sgouros speaking on NETs show "Proti Grammi" noted that the key to facing offenders is the collaboration of all inspective bodies.

In the meantime, the inspectors of Athens Prefecture detected sanitation and cleanliness problems in butcher shops in Varvakios Market.

Consumers are more cautious with their purchases, however, they have not lost their trust in the central Athens market, a fact which is depicted in the busyness of the markets.

Translated by Eirene Nisiriou

[07] Plan Drawn up by the European Troika Looking for Iran's Nuclear Weapons

By Athina Saloustrou

An action plan drawn up by Britain, France and Germany, which will be submitted to the International Atomic Energy Agency, is asking Iran to assist the IAEA in clarifying certain issue regarding possible activities of developing nuclear weapons and urging IAEA general manager Mohamed el Baradei to forward a copy of this decision to the UNs Security Council. In Tehran, Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad declared that the European plan was "politically motivated," while he called on the European countries to "step down from their ivory towers and act with a little logic." On his part, Iranian Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki spoke of a slim chance of submitting Irans nuclear file to the UNs Security Council.

Long Shot

Furthermore, Paris rejected Tehrans proposal towards the European powers to resume talks over the Iranian nuclear programme, stressing the dialogue could not continue after Irans decision on 9 January to resume sensitive activities.

If the issue is referred to the Security Council, it would pave the way for imposing sanctions on Iran, however, diplomats and analysts feel it is a long shot. The draft of the decision plan will undergo further changes when discussed during the IAEA governors summit, to be held next month.

Russia and China have voiced doubts on the usefulness of referring the Iranian file to the Security Council. The decision plan, if adopted, would lay the issue in the hands of the Security Council for the first time since it first appeared in August 2002.

Translated by Sofia Soulioti

Related News:

Disputes over Iran

[08] Female Appointed Foreign Affairs Minister Changes in Israeli Government

By Vagelis Theodorou

Acting Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert appointed Tzipi Livni as Foreign Affairs Minister, making her the second female in Israels history ever to be set in charge of the Ministry. The former Justice Minister, 47, replaced Silvan Shalom, who handed in his resignation, along with other Likud members, as soon as Ariel Sharon decided to leave the ruling party and found a new centrist one. In the meantime, the condition of the Israeli Prime Minister, who has been hospitalised since January 4, remains critical, yet stable. During the night the 77-year-old politician had his breathing tube replaced. As per the doctors, the surgery was a "technical issue," and Mr Sharon is being treated in the intensive care unit.

Translated by Areti Christou

Read the story on other sources:

Ha'aretz: Tzipi Livni becomes foreign minister, replacing Shalom

Related News:

Sharon's Condition Stable

[09] Grievous Defeat for AEK

By Vasilis Kalpinos

AEK did not manage to earn a win against Tau Ceramica as it was defeated 60-87 in the game for the 11th round of Euroleagues Group A and bade an early farewell to the events next phase. AEK started off the game quite terribly and the finalist of last years Euroleague did not leave the opportunity not taken advantage of. This was the 8th defeat in 11 games for AEK. The score of the ten-minute periods: 17-29, 36-46, 49-67, 60-87.

Translated by Eirene Nisiriou

[10] AEK-Iraklis Agree on Kapetanos

By Vasilis Kalpinos

Just one step is left before the conclusion of Pantelis Kapetanoss tranfer to AEK FC. This was announced by Iraklis FC on its official website, where it was mentioned that the club has reached an agreement with AEKs administration for the transfer of the 22-year-old capped (U21 National Team) striker. What is left now is the official announcement by AEK.

Iraklis FCs Announcement

"Iraklis FCs administration agreed with AEK on the transfer of Pantelis Kapetanos, today Wednesday 18/01. This development serves the interests of Iraklis, since it was a case of a player who completely separated himself from the team and as a result, the technical leadership, via Mr Savvas Kofidis, stopped including him in its matches. Iraklis FC wishes the player all the best in his future career."

Translated by Vicky Ghionis

[11] Advised by Scientists Vaccination of Vulnerable Groups

By Mary Lou Tzempelikou

Sources: NET

The scientists advised the need of the common flu shot vaccination to high-danger groups, such as hospital patients, children and the elderly, as it is quite possible that the combination of the flu and the deadly avian flu leads to a pandemic. In the meantime, intensive checks are being made in border regions of the country, while on Wednesday veterinarians are performing an awareness campaign on the virus in an elementary school in Lagadas, Chios. The experts advised children, who are among the vulnerable groups of the population, to not come into contact with dead birds, to not play with poultry and wash their hands often. Checks are continuing in the lakeside communities of Serres, since veterinarians are collecting samples of the faeces from domesticated poultry. Moreover, the residents are being informed of keeping their poultry protected in hencoops, or else they will be fined.

Who Should be Vaccinated

The high-danger groups that have to be vaccinated with the common flu shot are:

Persons with chronic respiratory illness Persons suffering from asthma Diabetics Persons facing kidney problems Persons facing blood cell problems Persons with a weak immune system and Persons suffering from cardiovascular diseases

The healthy persons that should be vaccinated are:

Children from 6 to 24 months Children cohabiting with babies up to 6 months and Persons over 65 years of age

As per the Greek Society for Infection Control (EEEL) the period of seasonal flu will last until March, and persons who are vaccinated now have a possibility of increased protection by 10%.

Translated by Eirene Nisiriou

Related News:

Beijing Conference Bore Fruit

Shielding against Avian Flu

[12] Foreseen by Draft Bill on Health Equipment Strict Penalties for Offenders

Sources: NET

Strict penalties, reaching 1 million euros for persons who violate terms on equipment, are foreseen by the draft bill of the Health Department. Moreover, executives and employees who through their work save up funds from equipment will be rewarded.

Translated by Eirene Nisiriou

[13] European Rival to Google on the Way Web's Airbus

By Annita Paschalinou

Sources: International Herald Tribune

Germany and France are leading the way towards developing a European search engine to rival Google. The initiative for the project called "Quaero," which means "I seek" in Latin, has been known since last year, however, its realization was nothing but easy. The European Commission has its financing under scrutiny, while the recent changes in Germanys political arena has significantly stalled the talks on the issue. While some deeply question the success of the European search engine, by underscoring that the money drawn from the European taxpayers will be wasted on academic search only, daily International Herald Tribune gave today the first clues on the amount of money the French and German are willing to spend.

New Generation Internet Search Engine

According to the article, the French-German consortium is to spend one to two billion euros on developing highly sophisticated digital tools, including a new generation search engine, and developing software to secure the copyrights of the digital heritance. Observers estimate that the creation of the aforementioned software is the EUs answer to the plans forwarded by Google, Microsoft and Amazon.com to catalogue, digitize and index books from all corners of the earth, many of which are still under copyright protection

Crucial Month for the Project

The current month seems to be rather crucial for the details of the funding.

The consortium will be boosted by private funds from both countries and technology companies, including Thomson, Siemens, France T&#233;l&#233;com and Deutsche Telekom.

Outlining the current years agenda, French President Jacques Chirac underlined that it is about time Europe rivalled the Anglo-Saxon cultural imperialism and the US technology giants of Google and Yahoo.

As per Philippe Paban, spokesman for Thomson, which leads the French drive, more details on the project are due in the week to come. In Germany, on the other hand, the countrys Economy Ministry is to discuss the issue on Friday.

Translated by Areti Christou

Read the story on other sources:

International Herald Tribune: Europeans weigh plan on Google challenge

Digital Media News for Europe: European companies develop search engine to rival Google

[14] Bank Working Hours at Focus Alavanos-OTOE Meeting

By Vagelis Theodorou

During their meeting today, SYN president Alekos Alavanos and OTOE's (Hellenic Federation of Bank Employee Unions) board discussed the problems of violating bank employee contracts and working hours. According to Mr Alavanos, his party supports bank employees' struggle to preserve their working hours and accused the Government and Eurobank of trying to abolish them. At the same time, he underlined the Parliament would discuss a relevant question he submitted to the Minister of Employment and Economy on Friday. On his part, OTOE President Dimitris Tsoukalas noted that bank working hours are established by contracts and laws and asked the Government to guard them. However, employees at the bank's branch at "The Mall Athens" decided to expand their working hours until 21:00 on weekdays and from 10:00 to 17:00 on Saturdays. Mr Alavanos also met with representatives from the Holy Clergy Union, with whom he discussed State-Church issues.

Translated by Sofia Soulioti

[15] Aleka Papariga's Press Conference KKE Targets Memorandum

By Vagelis Theodorou

During a Press conference, KKE (Greek Communist Party) general secretary Aleka Papariga voiced her partys opposition to the European Councils fascist and anticommunist memorandum. As she noted, a massive Greek delegation, consisting of members from KKE and other bodies, will arrive in Strasburg on 24 January, when the relevant discussion is scheduled, and submit thousands of signatures condemning the memorandum. In addition, she voiced her satisfaction over the fact that the Greek political parties have decided to reject the document. According to KKEs general secretary, the memorandum is "a forerunner of a new cycle of barbaric reactionary measures, which include social and democratic rights, as well as the launch of a new cycle of wars."

Referring to the constitutional review, Mrs Papariga said that it followed a reactionary direction, while she appeared apprehensive over linking yesterdays robbery in the centre of Athens to terrorism.

Finally, answering to a question concerning the permanent status of public sector employees, KKEs leader said the matter of lifting the permanent status has already been implemented in the EU context, while it was prompted by PASOK many years ago.

Translated by Vicky Ghionis

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