PS Presents Measures to Halt Rising Debt and Kick-start Economic Growth

Bratislava, 1 April (TASR) - The opposition Progressive Slovakia (PS) party on Wednesday presented three packages of measures aimed at halting the country's rising debt and kick-starting economic growth, promising reduced taxes, strengthened pension pillars and the appreciation of savings through the capital market. At a press conference announcing the plans, PS representatives also said that they want the principles of sound fiscal management to be enshrined in the Constitution. "The first such package will end the era of living on credit and will put more money in people's wallets. The state must manage its finances like any decent Slovak family, not spending more than it earns or is able to repay," stated PS MP Stefan Kiss, adding that the transaction tax should be scrapped as part of tax cuts. With the second package, PS plans to abolish redundant ministries, reduce red tape and put an end to across-the-board subsidies. This could be the case with the Tourism and Sport Ministry, as well as the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister for the Recovery Plan and a Knowledge-based Economy. Kiss also said that state aid should only be received by those who really need it, while reinstating the 'value for money' principle is also part of the proposal. The final package of measures involves redirecting resources into talent, innovation and modern technology, while PS is also keen on introducing a binding ten-year investment plan and enabling massive investments from European funds without corruption schemes. jrg/df