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Chavez bans “luxury” in Venezuela’s government

by Yuliya Talmazan | March 23, 2009 at 09:17 am

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The tough economic times have not escaped the government of the president of Venezuela Hugo Chavez. Venezuela’s economy is very dependent on oil sales, and with the prices of oil plunging, Chavez says his government officials will have to tighten their belts and forgo all “luxury.”

Chavez plans to cut all unnecessary and luxurious expenses in his administration.

Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez announced on Sunday he will sign a decree on Monday to prohibit the luxurious expenses in the government as part of the new anti-crisis measures.

    Chavez made the announcement in his Sunday TV-radio program "Alo Presidente". He said he will cut unnecessary and luxurious expenses in his administration.

    He ordered to review the high salaries of some public officers, advisors, experts and presidents of organizations and institutions.

    Chavez said that the privilege will be over and salaries review will be done for all the governors, mayors and state-owned company officials.

    Chavez said these measures are not for general public officers but for high level officers who earn over a million Bolivares per year, and receive a special bonus at the end of the year.

    Chavez added that the expenses on celebrations, presents, cell phones and the so called "expenses of representation" will be reduced.

    The social and productive investments, including health, education and social programs of the government, will not be affected, he said.