Ferencak Did Not Vote for Consolidation Package, Losing Trust of Voice-SD Caucus

Bratislava, 25 September (TASR) - Coalition MP Jan Ferencak (Voice-SD) did not vote for the package of consolidation measures for next year in parliament because he disagrees with shifting the burden to people, companies, entrepreneurs, and local governments, TASR has reported based on Ferencak's statements following the vote on Wednesday (24 September). Of the 79 MPs present, 78 supported the package, while Ferencak did not vote. Head of the Voice-SD parliamentary caucus Robert Puci believes that Ferencak has lost the trust of the entire caucus. The party will address the situation and its chairman Matus Sutaj Estok also wants to talk to Ferencak. When voting, MPs should be guided by their conscience and knowledge, said Ferencak, adding that the burden of austerity measures will be borne by citizens, companies, and local governments. "As the basic parameters have not been met, that is, passing most of the expenditure to the state, I said that I would not vote, which is my stance regarding this consolidation," explained Ferencak. As Ferencak supports the government manifesto and social-democratic attitudes, he does not know how his position in Voice-SD could be in jeopardy. "I see no reason why my opinion about consolidation being shifted to those who are vulnerable should jeopardize any position," he added, adding that if he disagrees with something, no one can force him. Puci said he would inform about the situation by the end of the week after they talk with Ferencak. "After all of this, I think he lost trust of the entire caucus," said Puci. He added that the consolidation package does not suit anyone, but it has become necessary due to the poor condition of public finances inherited from previous governments. "We are trying to consolidate general government expenditure," he said, adding that the cuts in government spending could be announced in mid-October when the budget proposal for next year is presented to parliament. According to Puci, everybody, including the opposition parties, expected the debate on the consolidation package to be shortened, which is also allowed by the House rules of procedure. He thinks that if any of the opposition MPs wanted to say their piece, they've had enough time to do so. Parliament approved the package of consolidation measures for next year on Wednesday (24 September) evening, after having shortened the debate in the second and third reading. jrg