PS Urges PM Fico to Restart Ambulance Services Tender

Bratislava, 6 August (TASR) – Opposition party Progressive Slovakia (PS) called on Prime Minister Robert Fico (Smer-SD) and Health Minister Kamil Sasko (Voice-SD) on Wednesday to cancel the current ambulance service tender and launch a new one. Speaking at a press conference, PS leader Michal Simecka claimed that the terms of the competition are non-transparent and also criticised the secrecy surrounding key documents. According to PS, this makes it clear that the winners have already been predetermined. Simecka criticised the fact that both Sasko and Fico are on holiday amid a wave of criticism surrounding the tender, instead of addressing the concerns. „Mr. Prime Minister, you have all the information; you do not need to wait for the minister’s press conference. You need to announce now that the tender is to be cancelled," said Simecka. PS insists the tender should be restarted in a transparent manner. „It is clear from the rules that the tender is being kept secret. It is obvious how it will end and who will end up receiving the money and contracts," Simecka added. He pointed out that some private companies have already purchased ambulances before the results have even been announced, and that media reports indicate members of the selection committee may be linked to the Agel group. The ambulance service tender has been criticised not only by the opposition but also by the coalition party Slovak National Party (SNS) and the Doctors' Labour Union Association. President Peter Pellegrini has urged Minister Sasko to comply with the law during the tender process. If the minister fails to dispel doubts and answer the questions surrounding the competition, the Prime Minister will insist on its cancellation and restart. The Health Ministry maintains that the tender is being conducted in accordance with applicable legislation and considers the opposition’s actions to be political posturing and fearmongering. The leader of Voice-SD Matus Sutaj Estok declared the minister has his full confidence. The Agel company has denied allegations of manipulation or behind-the-scenes arrangements in the tender. The tender concerns the operation of 344 ground ambulance stations and seven air rescue service units. mf/mcs