Danko: Slovakia's Independence Success Story, But Reforms Necessary

Bratislava, January 1 (TASR) – Slovakia’s story during the first 25 years of its independence is one of success, but as a member of the public I have rather mixed feelings about it, Parliamentary Chairman Andrej Danko (Slovak National Party/SNS) told TASR on Monday.

“Our forefathers had been striving for centuries to have their own statehood, but I feel as if many people today haven’t realised what it means to have our own state. There’s still a long way to go. I feel that we’re lacking the protection of national interests abroad,” said Danko, adding that certain reforms are necessary.

“Members of the public shouldn’t have the feeling that they’re losing their taxes, but that there’s a clear and readable system of social benefits instead. People should know that if an individual fails, there will be a just state,” said Danko, adding that if the current situation isn’t changed, the state will appear as heavy-footed and its officials will be viewed as undesired by the public.