Fico: In the field of criminal law, there is no open question between the EU and Slovakia

Bratislava – In the area of criminal law, there is no open question between the institutions of the European Union and the Slovak Republic. Prime Minister of the Slovak Republic Robert Fico stated this at a press conference after Monday’s meeting with Minister of Justice Boris Susko (both from Smer-SD), which focused on monitoring the implementation of the government’s program declaration. Therefore, the Prime Minister considers the amendment of the Criminal Code and the Criminal Procedure Code to be closed, TASR reports.

“Today it is very correct to state that there is no open question between the EU and SR institutions regarding the area of criminal law,” emphasized Fico. He pointed out that the Constitutional Court of the Slovak Republic also confirmed the constitutionality of changes in criminal legislation. He added that he does not know what could be the subject of Monday’s meeting with the monitoring group of the European Parliament, which focuses on democracy, the rule of law, and fundamental rights.

According to Fico, the changes in criminal law in the Slovak Republic have aligned with trends that are modern in Europe. He specified that the role of criminal law should not be revenge, but should help to remedy the damages caused.

“This role that we expected from criminal law is gradually being fulfilled,” noted Fico. According to him, courts are also imposing a greater number of alternative sentences than in the past.

However, further increases are limited by the number of probation officers, which is approximately 110. The Prime Minister expressed hope that this number could be increased. At the press conference, he also spoke about the successful resolution of tensions between the components of the authorities involved in criminal proceedings and in the Judicial Council of the Slovak Republic. He highlighted the proposal from the Ministry of Justice for a two-tier process regarding the disciplinary prosecution of judges.

Fico also talked about the salaries of court employees. “We found 32.5 million euros for redistribution, and this money practically resulted in an increase in salaries for court employees, not including judges, by an average of 400 euros,” added the Prime Minister. He also pointed out the increase in the income threshold for providing free legal aid to people. He considers it reasonable that a review of the recovery plan was undertaken within the Ministry of Justice. (June 2)

“It is very correct to state that there is no open question between the EU and SR institutions regarding the area of criminal law.” Robert Fico