News

11. 10. 201313:52

Implementation of the National Reform Programme in 2013 and upcoming European Semester

Roundtable discussion on implementation of the National Reform Programme in 2013 and the preparation of the forthcoming European Semester of economic policy coordination took place on 11th October 2013 in Hrzan Palace.

The discussion concerned the declining competitiveness of the Czech Republic and the problems associated with the implementation of individual measures. For the purposes of discussion, the Office of the Government distributed a document containing a response to the Council recommendations for the Czech Republic for 2013 and the state of play in the process of implementation of reform measures in the National Reform Programme of the Czech Republic for 2013. In terms of implementation, many measures could not be endorsed because of the dissolution of the Chamber of Deputies of the Parliament of the Czech Republic.

Participants agreed on necessity to implement key reform, especially with regards to strengthening the stability of public services, where adoption of the Law on Civil Servants is the most important measure in terms of access to the EU funds. From the view of social and economic partners, it is important not to undermine economic growth by strict fiscal policies. Partners of social dialogue appreciated the growing importance of the National Reform Programme, which represents an overarching document of reform efforts. In this regard, the National Reform Programme could in the future become a central paper providing direction of economic policy of the Czech Republic not only at the national level, but also in the context of EU. Furthermore, the discussion included several other important topics, such as taxation, public procurement, EU funds, pension reform, employment policy and promotion of research and development.

Social and economic partners appreciated the systematic consultation system not only for the preparation of National Reform Programme, but also for individual problems that fall under the scope of authority of various ministries. Further, the participant mentioned that the role the Prime Minister is crucial for achieving a successful implementation of reforms. Therefore, he should supervise the process of implementation of individual reform measures by different ministries.