Brussels – A delegation from the European Parliament (EP) Committee on Budgetary Control (CONT) is set to arrive in Slovakia on Monday for a three-day assessment of how European Union (EU) funds are being utilized, as well as national measures in place to safeguard taxpayer money. This information was shared by the EP press office with TASR on Friday.
The four-member delegation, led by Czech MEP Tomáš Zdechovský from the European People’s Party (EPP), aims to address concerning reports regarding the alleged misuse of EU funds and regulatory breaches involving prominent officials and individuals linked to the Slovak government. “These issues demand a comprehensive and impartial investigation,” Zdechovský emphasized.
Joining him are MEPs Michal Wiezik (Renew Europe, Slovakia), Ondřej Knotek (Identity and Democracy, Czech Republic), and Daniel Freund (Greens/EFA, Germany). Throughout their visit, the MEPs will engage with representatives from various state institutions, including the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Investments, Regional Development and Informatization. They will also meet with members of the National Council of the Slovak Republic, representatives from the Supreme Audit Office, the Public Prosecutor’s Office, the Agricultural Payment Agency, and the government commissioner for Roma communities.
The itinerary includes discussions with investigative journalists and members of non-governmental organizations, focusing on the utilization and transparency of EU funds.
Additionally, the MEPs will explore matters related to the rule of law and the protection of EU taxpayers’ money, based on the press release.
The delegation is also scheduled to visit the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (NÚSCH), a major beneficiary of funding from the EU Recovery and Resilience Mechanism.
Moreover, from June 1 to 3, Slovakia is expected to host the EP Monitoring Group for Democracy, the Rule of Law, and Fundamental Rights, according to a source familiar with the situation, as reported by TASR. (May 23)
“We are receiving disturbing reports about the alleged misuse of EU funds and violations of rules involving high officials and individuals connected to the Slovak government. These issues require thorough impartial scrutiny.” – Tomáš Zdechovský.
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