MIRRI Rejects Opposition's Criticism, Wants to End Overpriced IT Services

Bratislava, 3 October (TASR) - The Investments, Regional Development and Informatisation Ministry (MIRRI) rejected the opposition's criticism regarding the ongoing procurement of IT services earlier on Friday, noting that the tender, which is open to all interested bidders, will put an end to "overpriced IT services" of questionable functionality. The opposition parties Progressive Slovakia (PS) and For the People called the procurement non-transparent and useless, pointing also to the gradually rising cost of the contract. "The contract follows up on a project that has been prepared for more than five years. It's time for action, not endless talk. We do not share PS's enthusiasm about the existing situation concerning the slovensko.sk portal and we want to change it," stated MIRRI, stressing that the project is implemented fully in line with the applicable rules and legislation. According to the ministry, the critics didn't say that contracts awarded through public procurement procedure contain a suspensive clause, according to which a contract can be executed only if all processes are duly examined and if its funding is secured. Also, MIRRI welcomed the fact that the case is being referred to the Public Procurement Authority. "This is exactly how disputes should be resolved – by legal means, not through populist press conferences," according to the ministry. Next week, MIRRI plans to present details on how the services provided by the state will be upgraded, and will also reveal the real motives behind the opposition's criticism. jrg