Czech Government Unveils Economic Aid Measures

On Tuesday afternoon, the Czech government approved one-off support of 25,000 CZK for all who were forced to close their businesses within the restrictions and the introduction of the kurzarbeit system from April 6.

Ministers discussed the proposal of the Minister of Labor and Social Affairs Jana Maláčová (ČSSD).

Maláčová pushed the State to pay two salary contributions to employers, 80 percent for those who had to close their businesses and 60 percent for those who decided on their own.

“We want companies not to lay off people,” Maláčová said at a press conference.

Applicants must fulfill several conditions by submitting an affidavit, including a fall in revenue of 10% year-on-year in the first quarter (January-March), and a minimum gross income of 180,000 CZK last year. According to the Ministry of Finance, payments can begin from April 12th.

Originally the government intended to pay entrepreneurs 15,000 CZK per month.

At the same time, the Government approved special incentives for businesses to limit personnel lay-offs.

The Cabinet also approved a six-month moratorium on a mortgage and other loan repayments.