Drucker and EC Discuss Zoning of National Parks under Recovery Plan

Bratislava, 11 March (TASR) - Education Minister Tomas Drucker (Voice-SD), who has been tasked with managing the Vice-Premier's Office for the Recovery Plan and a Knowledge-based Economy, is in talks with the European Commission (EC) regarding the zoning of four national parks included in the recovery plan, he said after the government's session on Wednesday. The debate also revolved around the definition of old-growth forests required by the EC, as the term was previously unrecognised under Slovak law. Furthermore, the government discussed protection measures for the western capercaillie, also known as the wood grouse. "The Environment Ministry has expanded the zones to protect the species and will prepare maps so that we can compare the zonings. I believe there'll be no problem with this," said Drucker. He stated that the zoning issue under the recovery plan will be addressed in line with the timetable, as all issues must be resolved by the end of August. At the same time, added Drucker, it's necessary to take into account that owners of land located in zones with the highest degree of protection will need to be compensated for costs. "Based on last week's information, the Environment Ministry has arranged that and is expanding all those locations," said Drucker. jrg