Government Appoints Michal Kalinak as Its Proxy for Local Government

Bratislava, 28 May (TASR) - Current Interior Ministry State Secretary Michal Kalinak has become the government proxy for local government, with the government passing the decision to this effect at its session on Wednesday. The work of the proxy will be part of Kalinak's agenda as state secretary. Premier Robert Fico (Smer-SD) views the creation of the post as an expression of the importance that the current government attaches to the relationship and cooperation with local governments. He sees in Kalinak a person who can make use of his rich experience and in-depth knowledge of the local-government environment. "I expect the proxy to deepen the social dialogue between the two sides, but also to be very active in finalising another agreement between the government and local governments concerning local development fees," said Fico, adding that the exact contours of the agreement are still under negotiation. The Interior Ministry specified that the post of government proxy for local government is the result of an agreement with representatives of local-government associations, which are currently preparing proposals for modernising local government. "His task will be to coordinate activities related to modernising local government and to shape professional discussions with local governments and local-government associations with an emphasis on creating new municipal management," said Interior Minister Matus Sutaj Estok (Voice-SD). The newly appointed proxy stressed the urgent need to modernise local government. "It must respond to developments and trends, monitor trends and adapt the services provided accordingly, all with an emphasis on the availability of services and the ease with which the territory is run," stressed Kalinak. ko/df