President Mauricio Macri said Monday that government employees in Argentina won't receive pay raises this year as part of a string of measures aimed at cutting spending. Macri also announced the elimination of 1,000 "political positions" and the firing of family members appointed as advisers by government ministers. His government also faced violent protests in December over a pension overhaul bill that was ultimately approved by Congress. The pay freeze and other moves are expected to have a limited impact on the annual budget. But Macri said he hopes it can be followed by mayors and governors to reduce Argentina's high deficit.

Source: ABC News January 29, 2018 20:41 UTC