By: Domen Mezeg (Nova24tv.si)
“When it comes to expectations that the economy and individuals will act in solidarity, it is very important for the government to demonstrate that it has first cut all non-essential spending before reaching into the pockets of taxpayers. This will be a test, and I believe the government is aware of this,” stated Janša in an interview with the largest commercial TV channel. It should be noted that the government is considering the introduction of working Saturdays to gather funds for post-flood reconstruction, preferring to “fatten up” non-governmental organisation “parasites”. More information is available here – in Slovene.
The leader of the opposition, Janez Janša, and the Prime Minister, Robert Golob, appeared in the studio of the largest commercial TV channel to comment on the current developments regarding post-flood reconstruction in Slovenia. Each of them shared their vision for reconstruction and what the emergency law brings for those most affected. Both are convinced that people come first and that there is currently no time for political confrontation. Golob expressed some heart-warming words, while Janša grounded him by stating that political unity is always something dependent on “the one who holds the scissors and the fabric”. He finds it normal that in such a case, humanity comes first. The key is to ensure conditions for a speedy reconstruction. Similar unity was what he desired during the COVID-19 crisis, revealing a different stance compared to the destructive opposition of that time. Golob, after the floods, faced criticism for not taking physical action himself (following Janša’s example), meaning he did not grab a shovel.
Janša pointed out that it is not the task of the Prime Minister to engage in physical assistance like wielding a shovel: “I have been a Prime Minister in similar situations, and it is easier to hold a shovel and provide direct help than to face thousands of dilemmas on how to make decisions that will not impact just one specific individual you are helping, but everyone affected.” This is why he looks at Golob’s decision not to physically assist on the field with understanding. Golob stated that as a leader of the opposition he would have helped similarly to Janša. The Prime Minister also expressed gratitude for the quick progress in handling the situation. At the same time, he hopes that the situation will remain such for as long as possible. He mentioned their intention to consider certain opposition proposals (such as the Reconstruction Fund of Slovenia). Janša highlighted the importance of removing bureaucratic obstacles to facilitate the reconstruction. The opposition leader emphasised that it is crucial to first utilise all possible solidarity-based European and domestic non-repayable funds, along with cheaper repayable funds.
The government should cut unnecessary expenses before tapping into taxpayers’ pockets!
“When it comes to expectations that the economy and individuals will act in solidarity, it is very important for the government to demonstrate that it has cut all non-essential expenses first before reaching into the pockets of taxpayers. This will be a test, and I believe the government is aware of it,” warned Janša. The conversation also touched on expectations that particularly the banking and corporate sectors would demonstrate solidarity. The leader of SDS stated that interest rates for savings in banks are the lowest in the euro area and amount to less than one percent. Janša stated, “So banks are making profits largely as a result of the low valuation of the money that the population saves in their accounts. A certain amount of money, which from a standpoint of fairness could be used for flood reconstruction, is there.” Flood reconstruction will also bring about significant developments in the construction sector.
It is already known that some people will not be able to rebuild their houses in the same locations due to the flooding. Golob, however, asserted that they do not intend to allow replacement constructions in flood-prone areas if the government has a say in the matter. Janša, on the other hand, believes that sometimes it is wise to wait for the truth, as it becomes more acceptable when things settle down and the sun shines. However, it is important that the selection of replacement plots also considers the accessibility of schooling for children so that they can attend the same school. Therefore, the replacement location must be as close to the original as possible. The conversation also touched on the search for accountability regarding easing building regulations in flood-prone areas and reducing funds for flood prevention. Golob hinted that they do not plan to investigate this matter further. Janša added, “Who adopted what law and who did what is clearly documented, and it will not escape anyone’s attention.”
The politics will focus on flood recovery if the media also pays attention to it.
“In these weeks, it is not the time to look back.” According to him, the first step is to consider who is responsible for watercourses. Janša has always emphasised the importance of municipal jurisdiction and providing additional funds, as local mayors are more familiar with the terrain. “This discussion is still ahead of us, as well as a reasonable decision that was proposed but unfortunately fell through in that legislation,” pointed out the president of SDS. The conversation also touched on the proposal to postpone the public sector salary reform until 2025. It is also unclear what will happen with the healthcare reform, which seems to be stalled. Janša reminded that ministries and departments also have their responsibilities. Janša: “Not everyone is dealing with floods, although significantly more than if there were none. Other issues also need to be addressed. However, it is true that in the first few weeks, when such a shock occurs, everything is concentrated on the floods because people need to be helped.”
“In addition to material assistance, it is necessary to create an atmosphere in which people believe that things will be resolved. Because if people do not believe, then there is apathy, and nothing can be achieved.” As he pointed out, people are afraid that once the media attention subsides, the government and politics will forget about them. Janša is convinced that sustained attention is crucial, not just until other issues become more topical. He also pointed a finger at the media, which share responsibility in this regard. He stated that if the media continue to cover flood recovery efforts on the ground weekly in the autumn, politics will also focus on the issue. The conversation also touched on the forthcoming legislation that will be presented in parliament. The opposition leader reminded that they supported the previous law, even though it was not the best. “When it really matters, not every word is scrutinised. Even if not all our proposals are considered, we will support it because it is moving the situation in the right direction,” he added.