Kalinak Defends Cost of Refurbished 'Kukurica' Building

Smolenice/Bratislava, 25 February (TASR) - Defence Minister Robert Kalinak (Smer-SD) describes the fittings in the renovated former Hviezda dormitory, also known as Kukurica [the Corncob — due to the building's shape — ed.note], as high quality, rejecting any claims of overpricing, TASR learnt on Wednesday. The minister made the remarks in response to journalists' questions after Wednesday's away-from-home cabinet session in Smolenice (Trnava region), addressing criticism from the opposition. "For example, when we talk about those quality urinals, I am glad this is becoming an issue of debate. Of course, you must have something that is adequately hygienic, automatic, self-flushing, equipped with a radar and god knows what else," the defence minister said, defending urinals costing hundreds of euros. Kalinak added that the ministry is ready to welcome inspectors from the Supreme Audit Authority (NKU) as well as journalists to visit the ministry and view its renovated building. He noted that the state has also faced criticism over furniture purchases at the Hospital of St Michael. "But ten years later that furniture is still there and functional," he said. Kalinak also admitted there could be debate over controversy surrounding an LED screen installed on the exterior wall of the building. It might or might not have been installed, he said, describing this as a relevant discussion, unlike the quality of the sanitary equipment at Kukurica. On Wednesday, the opposition's Progressive Slovakia (PS) party filed a motion with NKU over the reconstruction of the Kukurica building. MP Zuzana Stevulova cited alleged waste of public funds as the reason. The opposition has long criticised the renovation of the building. Complaints have also come from local residents over light pollution. The Defence Ministry's Value for Money Unit has repeatedly recommended preparing a plan to fill the premises, citing concerns about insufficient use. Until now, the ministry was rejecting any wrongdoing. mf/mcs