The Greek government is considering a new financial aid package for Santorini businesses if seismic activity continues after the Easter holiday.
Local media reports suggest that the proposed assistance would support businesses and employees, as modeled after the COVID-19 relief measures. This comes amid growing concerns about the impact of persistent tremors on the island’s tourism season, with reports indicating a drop in bookings due to fears of a major earthquake.
Special measures have been introduced for businesses in Santorini and Amorgos, which remain in an emergency. These measures allow employers to suspend contracts between February 1 and March 3, 2025. Employees affected by this suspension are eligible for a special allowance of 534 euros for 30 days.
The Hellenic Confederation of Commerce and Entrepreneurship (ESEE) and the General Confederation of Greek Workers (GSEE) have urged the government to expand support for businesses in Santorini.
ESEE President Stavros Kafounis recently stated, “All support measures for businesses in the Municipality of Thira should reflect those introduced during the pandemic.”
Additionally, GSEE has called on the Ministry of Labor to increase compensation for affected workers on Santorini and Amorgos. They suggest payments should be at least 82 percent of the applicable minimum wage instead of the fixed 534 euros, with full insurance coverage. The union also requests that seasonal businesses (up to nine months per year) be included in the suspension measure rather than limiting it to year-round enterprises.
In a related development, the Greek Ministry of Interior has signed a contract to fund emergency support in Santorini, Amorgos, Anafi, and Ios, allocating 850,000 euros to address the needs arising from ongoing seismic activity in the southern Cyclades.