Fico Provides First Official Speech after Being Released from Hospital

Fico Provides First Official Speech after Being Released from Hospital

Bratislava, May 18 (TASR) – Talking more about good things and successful people – real celebrities working at municipalities – is one of my chief tasks in this electoral term, Prime Minister Robert Fico said on Wednesday in his first official speech since being released from the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases.

Fico, speaking at a congress of the Slovak Towns and Villages Association (ZMOS), promised to do his best to maintain good relations between the Cabinet and municipalities. He noted that his previous government managed to keep promises he made at the annual ZMOS session a year ago – most notably concerning the hike of the share in taxes collected from individuals on behalf of municipalities to 70 percent.

“Municipalities have received almost €77 million more in the first months of this year thanks to this decision. It’s evidence that the decision has strengthened municipal treasuries,” said Fico.

“A debate on employment policies awaits us, as well as work on the Construction Act and the drawing of EU funds. You’ve helped us a lot in this,” said Fico.

Commenting on action plans for underdeveloped districts, Fico said that the first positive fruits have appeared. “We’re ready to expand the scope of this law where we’ll have deemed it appropriate,” added Fico.