Greek PM stands firm by Government plan to fine unvaccinated

Anyone who wants to avoid fines set to go into effect in Greece next week for people aged 60 and up who aren't vaccinated has a simple way to avoid punishment, says Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.

"You get vaccinated and then you don't pay any fine," he said in an interview on broadcaster ANT1. He had been asked if he was aware how hard the fines would be on the budgets of Greek pensioners.

The rule, set to enter force on Monday, will require anyone above the cut-off age to pay a monthly fee of 100 euros (114.50 dollars) if they have opted not to get vaccinated against the coronavirus.

The incoming rule was announced in November.

"Since then, almost 90 per cent of those aged 60 and up have gotten vaccinated," said Mitsotakis.

Once the law goes into effect, state health authorities will transmit the names of the unvaccinated to finance authorities, so the fines can be levied. The money will be used to support hospitals in Greece.