NEWS
Slovenian Prime Minister Alenka Bratušek at the press conference after the Government's session: "The important thing is how the earmarked funds will be used"
At the press conference held after the 13th Government's session, where the proposed revision of the 2013 national budget was adopted, the Prime Minister of the Republic of Slovenia, Alenka Bratušek, said that the budget for 2013 prepared by the former Government had been unrealistic, which resulted in a 1.1 billion euros deficit as early as in May. Among important changes, the Prime Minister highlighted a rise in VAT on the revenue side of the budget. The situation on the expenditure side remains at the former budget level, with certain redistributions to be made in the pension fund and interests areas. "The important thing about the revised national budget is how the earmarked funds will be used," emphasised the Prime Minister.
In certain segments, reductions will be necessary due to the deficit which amounts to 1.5 billion euros, but the Prime Minister said that no additional measures would be required apart from the already adopted national reform programme and stability pact. Within its capabilities, the Government will insist on the implementation of the set priorities, which include a just state governed by the rule of law, supporting and boosting the economy, bank rehabilitation and youth employment. As an additional priority, the Prime Minister highlighted seeking solutions to problems in the health care sector, but added that despite certain pessimistic predictions, the health care system is still in operation and stable.