Grendel: We Call on UVO to Take Action Concerning Reconstruction of Kukurica

Bratislava, 9 January (TASR) - The 'Slovakia' party has called on the Public Procurement Office (UVO) to publish the results of an inspection regarding the reconstruction of the Hviezda (Star) military housing facility in Bratislava, known colloquially as Kukurica (the Corn on the Cob) due to its characteristic shape, and to take action against Defence Minister Robert Kalinak (Smer-SD), MP Gabor Grendel ('Slovakia' party - For the People) told a news conference on Friday. The opposition party sees several flaws in the building's reconstruction. It criticised the ministry for overstating the original reconstruction budget by more than 100 percent. "As you know, under our government, the reconstruction of Kukurica was planned for €35 million. However, the final sum should now climb to over €72 million," said Grendel. He also pointed out that the original construction permit was issued for accommodation purposes. He said that it isn't true that there was no interest in accommodation at the facility. The party doesn't like the price of construction work, either, as it should significantly exceed the planned amount. Following the Cabinet session on Friday, Defence Minister Robert Kalinak (Smer-SD) responded to the criticism by saying that the Hviezda facility is a state-owned property and that the ministry is investing in it. He also advocated for a green facade on the upper floors of the building and said that he stands behind the whole project. ko/df