Lech Kaczynski addressed the House appealing for government attention to crisis developments in Poland's economy and concerted efforts in combatting its effects.
Report by Slawek Szefs
The head of state told MPs that relevant data describing the condition of Poland's economy should evoke concern. President Kaczynski said he was driven by a sense of responsibility which does not allow him to remain idle when the fate of the country's economy shows signs of far reaching uncertainty. This jopardizes the future of Polish families and the entire society, he stressed. Lech Kaczynski said:
"The effects can be exteremely serious. (...) However persons and institutions bearing responsibility for the country's economic affairs seem not to appreciate the gravity of the situation. The time has come to put forth the fundamental question about the condition of Poland's economy and actions undertaken to handle the crisis."
President Kaczynski criticized the government for its 2009 budget as being constructed on questionable figures, not reflecting current reality. This requires speedy and in-depth amendments, something which should be done months ago, he said. The president voiced readiness to actively participate in forging a widely accepted strategy of overcoming recession.
Replying to the president's remarks PM Donald Tusk said he was looking forward to the offer of cooperation. However, a majority of MPs criticized the tone of the presidential address, calling it a propaganda gimmick.
President Kaczynski gave the House last minute notice on Thursday of his intention to address it on matters of crucial economic importance. The timing of the president's address - during the peak of the election campaign to the European Parliament - clearly points to political intentions of Lech Kaczynski, commented the MPs.
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