Moldovan top sportsmen to receive life annuities

Moldovan sportsmen who were medalled at the Olympic Games, World or European championships will de awarded life annuities. Parliament passed on Thursday, March 22, a draft law in this regard. The allowances will be granted starting January 1 of the year following the sportsman’s retirement. Depending on the achievements, the life annuity shall not exceed two average wages. For the first golden Olympic medal, the allowance will constitute 2 average wages. For the first silver Olympic medal, or first golden medal won at the world championships – 80%. For the first bronze Olympic medal or for the first silver medal obtained at the European championships the sportsmen will receive 70%. For the first bronze medal won at the world championships, or silver medal obtained at the European championships, the sportsmen will receive 60% of the 2 average wages. 50% will be offered to the sportsmen for the first bronze medal won at the European championships. Extra 30% for inferior achievements will be offered to the sportsmen that will have several champion titles. The allowance is paid every month and is not taxable. If the sportsmen resume their professional activity, the payment of the allowance shall be suspended. MP Leonid Bujor suggested raising the allowances, but Victor Stepaniuc, who is chairman of the specialised committee, said that there are resources to cover any other additional expenses. Allowances will be granted to the sportsmen who obtained medals starting 1975.