2012/92/EU: Council Implementing Decision of 14 December 2011 amending Implementing Decision 2011/344/EU on granting Union financial assistance to Portugal

‘3 The general government deficit shall not exceed EUR 10068 million (equivalent to 5,9 % of GDP based on current projections) in 2011, EUR 7645 million (4,5 % of GDP) in 2012 and 3,0 % of GDP by 2013 in line with the excessive deficit procedure requirements. For the calculation of this deficit, the possible budgetary costs of bank support measures in the context of the Portuguese Government’s financial sector strategy shall not be taken into account. Consolidation shall be achieved by means of high-quality permanent measures and minimising the impact of consolidation on vulnerable groups.’;

‘8 With a view to restoring confidence in the financial sector, Portugal shall adequately recapitalise its banking sector and ensure an orderly deleveraging process. In that regard, Portugal shall develop and agree with the Commission, the ECB and the IMF a strategy for the future structure and functioning of the Portuguese banking sector so that financial stability is preserved. In particular, Portugal shall:’;

‘9 In order to ensure the smooth implementation of the Programme’s conditionality, and to help to correct imbalances in a sustainable way, the Commission shall provide continued advice and guidance on fiscal, financial market and structural reforms. Within the framework of the assistance to be provided to Portugal, together with the IMF and in liaison with the ECB, it shall periodically review the effectiveness and economic and social impact of the agreed measures, and shall recommend necessary corrections with a view to enhancing growth and job creation, securing the necessary fiscal consolidation and minimising harmful social impacts, particularly on the most vulnerable parts of Portuguese society.’.

This Decision is addressed to the Portuguese Republic.