WEBVTT 00:00:04.093 --> 00:00:09.260 Today the government discussed the first package of tax changes 00:00:09.381 --> 00:00:15.069 and agreed with it. The tax changes will bring: 00:00:15.190 --> 00:00:19.607 Measures to strengthen Slovenia's competitive position 00:00:19.728 --> 00:00:22.145 in the fight for key personnel, 00:00:23.181 --> 00:00:27.598 tax incentives to reward innovative startup companies, 00:00:27.781 --> 00:00:30.878 and certain administrative reliefs 00:00:30.999 --> 00:00:34.952 in rewarding workers with stocks and shares. 00:00:35.313 --> 00:00:40.508 I must say that the discussion was very constructive. 00:00:40.660 --> 00:00:45.703 There were several technical comments. 00:00:45.906 --> 00:00:50.316 The Ministry of Finance will coordinate all of those comments 00:00:50.437 --> 00:00:53.148 with stakeholders in the next two days. 00:00:53.269 --> 00:00:57.205 So, the final version of the tax changes will be adopted 00:00:57.326 --> 00:01:01.041 at the government correspondence session this Friday. 00:01:01.674 --> 00:01:07.465 The content of the tax changes will be further explained 00:01:07.586 --> 00:01:11.120 by Minister of Finance Klemen Boštjančič. 00:01:11.915 --> 00:01:18.800 Today the government also discussed the decree, 00:01:19.135 --> 00:01:25.354 which raises the monthly license fee for RTV by 1.27 euros, 00:01:25.475 --> 00:01:30.471 and on 1 January it will amount to about 14 euros. 00:01:31.202 --> 00:01:35.619 The government familiarised itself with the request 00:01:35.740 --> 00:01:39.640 that the institution gave to the Ministry of Culture 00:01:39.761 --> 00:01:42.261 and finally confirmed it today. 00:01:43.162 --> 00:01:49.766 I must say that the government acted as a responsible founder. 00:01:50.101 --> 00:01:53.702 We are aware of the situtation at the institution 00:01:53.823 --> 00:01:59.609 and the license fee has not changed for the past 12 years. 00:01:59.730 --> 00:02:04.565 No previous government was able to take this on. 00:02:04.744 --> 00:02:09.580 We know what all changed in 12 years, 00:02:09.821 --> 00:02:13.321 but mainly, as this government took office, 00:02:13.442 --> 00:02:18.800 the institution experienced changes 00:02:18.921 --> 00:02:22.505 as we removed politics from the institution. 00:02:22.626 --> 00:02:24.957 Now there will also be changes 00:02:25.078 --> 00:02:29.588 to the organisation and operation of this public institution, 00:02:29.708 --> 00:02:32.160 which is also tied to financing. 00:02:32.281 --> 00:02:36.278 We know that this raise will not solve all of the problems, 00:02:36.399 --> 00:02:40.672 much depends on organising and restructuring the institution. 00:02:40.793 --> 00:02:44.302 In recent years the institution has been very weak 00:02:44.423 --> 00:02:47.134 in terms of film production and sports 00:02:47.255 --> 00:02:53.252 and we want to have a high-quality public RTV service. 00:02:53.716 --> 00:02:59.640 To end, I would like to express our great satisfaction and gratitude, 00:03:00.426 --> 00:03:04.400 as the President of the European Commission 00:03:05.012 --> 00:03:08.262 has informed us that our Solidarity Fund 00:03:08.383 --> 00:03:14.005 will receive an additional 28 million euros in aid. 00:03:14.271 --> 00:03:18.138 The President will confirm this with the Prime Minister 00:03:18.259 --> 00:03:20.427 next week during her visit 00:03:20.548 --> 00:03:24.798 in Črna na Koroškem and at the Bled Strategic Forum. 00:03:24.919 --> 00:03:29.560 Our efforts in flood remediation 00:03:29.777 --> 00:03:34.386 have been acknowledged by the European Commission 00:03:34.507 --> 00:03:38.011 and we are very happy and grateful. 00:03:38.488 --> 00:03:43.155 Thank you. The Deputy PM will now be answering questions. 00:03:43.457 --> 00:03:47.363 First, are there any questions here? 00:03:47.918 --> 00:03:49.668 No? Then we go online. 00:03:50.980 --> 00:03:53.691 You can raise your hand on Zoom. 00:03:53.812 --> 00:04:00.058 Yes, Marko Milenkovič from RTV has a question. 00:04:00.730 --> 00:04:02.480 Marko Milenkovič, RTV. 00:04:02.632 --> 00:04:07.292 Mr. Arčon, I have a question that isn't directly related to this. 00:04:07.413 --> 00:04:11.284 A representative of Israel will be on one of the panels 00:04:11.405 --> 00:04:13.660 at the Bled Strategic Forum. 00:04:13.781 --> 00:04:17.922 Coalition parties have called for her removal from the panels. 00:04:18.043 --> 00:04:20.047 How did this decision happen? 00:04:20.168 --> 00:04:23.177 Why is she there and what is your position? 00:04:23.298 --> 00:04:26.208 Will anything change or will she remain a guest? 00:04:26.521 --> 00:04:30.521 We did not discuss this at the coalition meeting, 00:04:30.642 --> 00:04:34.040 which was held before the government session. 00:04:34.161 --> 00:04:38.615 The Forum is organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, 00:04:38.736 --> 00:04:42.672 which will give you an adequate answer to that question. 00:04:43.165 --> 00:04:47.516 They raised their hand at POP TV as well. Go ahead. 00:04:48.868 --> 00:04:53.446 Metka Majer. My question isn't directly related to today's session, 00:04:53.567 --> 00:04:55.739 but what is going on in Brussels. 00:04:55.860 --> 00:04:58.462 EU commissioner candidate Tomaž Vesel 00:04:58.583 --> 00:05:01.455 met with the President of the European Commission. 00:05:01.720 --> 00:05:05.314 Apparently the President wants female candidates, 00:05:05.435 --> 00:05:08.519 especially from smaller Member States, 00:05:08.640 --> 00:05:11.143 in exchange for a better portfolio. 00:05:11.264 --> 00:05:15.181 Has the President perhaps made a similar request 00:05:15.302 --> 00:05:19.480 of the Slovenian government or the Prime Minister? 00:05:20.050 --> 00:05:23.000 The President of the Commission does not comment 00:05:23.121 --> 00:05:25.800 on her conversations with the candidates. 00:05:26.230 --> 00:05:31.397 Our government's position is clear. The candidate was confirmed 00:05:31.518 --> 00:05:35.844 by the government and by the National Assembly. 00:05:35.965 --> 00:05:41.933 We want the best, as well as a suitable portfolio 00:05:42.054 --> 00:05:44.938 and to be satisfied with its work 00:05:45.059 --> 00:05:49.735 in the future composition of the European Commission. 00:05:50.263 --> 00:05:52.567 Do you have a follow-up question? 00:05:55.716 --> 00:06:00.550 Greetings, Anže Božič. Mr. Arčon, I have a question for you 00:06:00.671 --> 00:06:04.427 as vice-president of the Freedom Movement 00:06:04.610 --> 00:06:08.527 about what is going on in the National Assembly. 00:06:08.966 --> 00:06:13.300 Urška Klakočar Zupančič is blocking an investigation, 00:06:13.421 --> 00:06:15.921 that SDS and NSi are demanding, 00:06:16.042 --> 00:06:21.542 into the electricity supplier GEN-I financing the Freedom Movement. 00:06:21.663 --> 00:06:25.858 I just want to know whether anyone in the Freedom Movement 00:06:25.979 --> 00:06:29.622 is pressuring the President of the National Assembly 00:06:29.743 --> 00:06:33.410 to stop this committee from being established, 00:06:33.531 --> 00:06:37.698 considering all of the procedures involved in this. 00:06:38.807 --> 00:06:41.160 No, absolutely not. 00:06:42.048 --> 00:06:47.680 The President of the National Assembly knows her duty, 00:06:47.801 --> 00:06:50.993 the competencies that committees have 00:06:51.114 --> 00:06:54.665 and the procedures involved in establishing them. 00:06:54.786 --> 00:06:58.261 That is exclusively in her purview 00:06:58.424 --> 00:07:01.508 and there is no political insinuation. 00:07:01.893 --> 00:07:05.690 Thank you. Rok Bizjak, STA, go ahead. 00:07:06.846 --> 00:07:10.096 Greetings. Will this tax change proposal 00:07:10.217 --> 00:07:15.846 be coalitionally coordinated and was it discussed at the ESC? 00:07:17.821 --> 00:07:25.212 This will be answered by Minister of Finance Boštjančič, 00:07:25.432 --> 00:07:30.901 but I can say that the proposal is coalitionally coordinated. 00:07:31.690 --> 00:07:36.534 There are no more questions. Thank you, Deputy PM Arčon. 00:07:36.893 --> 00:07:41.557 We will now be joined by Minister of Finance Klemen Boštjančič 00:07:41.678 --> 00:07:46.409 and State Secretary at the Ministry Katja Božič. 00:07:52.081 --> 00:07:55.415 Greetings. Today the government discussed 00:07:55.857 --> 00:07:57.810 the package of tax changes, 00:07:57.931 --> 00:08:01.764 which the public is already well acquainted with. 00:08:02.178 --> 00:08:06.716 The package will be confirmed by the government on Friday, 00:08:06.837 --> 00:08:10.837 there are only a few minor technical issues left. 00:08:11.100 --> 00:08:13.600 Because they are minor things, 00:08:13.721 --> 00:08:17.443 we will be confirming it via correspondence session. 00:08:17.779 --> 00:08:24.720 Today the government discussed and coordinated everything else. 00:08:25.583 --> 00:08:28.037 The first measures are target-oriented. 00:08:28.158 --> 00:08:31.255 They address key developmental challenges 00:08:31.376 --> 00:08:36.021 that should be supported through appropriate measures, 00:08:36.142 --> 00:08:39.084 mainly to increase the productivity 00:08:39.205 --> 00:08:43.021 and international competitiveness of the Slovenian economy 00:08:43.142 --> 00:08:47.139 and to eliminate some of the flaws of the existing tax system. 00:08:47.537 --> 00:08:51.294 With this first step we wish to support industries 00:08:51.415 --> 00:08:54.209 and employees with a higher value added. 00:08:54.639 --> 00:08:58.209 The package will enter into force on 1 January 2025. 00:08:58.330 --> 00:09:04.396 I will be more specific and list three development-oriented measures. 00:09:04.517 --> 00:09:07.785 We are proposing a more favourable taxation treatment 00:09:07.906 --> 00:09:10.410 to attract new personnel to Slovenia, 00:09:10.531 --> 00:09:13.840 in the form of a lower income tax, 00:09:13.961 --> 00:09:18.160 7% of the salary for a period of five years 00:09:18.281 --> 00:09:20.949 for highly qualified, experienced 00:09:21.070 --> 00:09:25.106 and internationally competitive young personnel, 00:09:25.227 --> 00:09:27.575 so younger than 40 years of age. 00:09:27.793 --> 00:09:32.043 The change here is that the measure applies to those 00:09:32.164 --> 00:09:35.379 who were non-residents for at least two years, 00:09:35.500 --> 00:09:37.809 not five, as we first proposed. 00:09:38.168 --> 00:09:41.168 Through this more favourable taxation 00:09:41.289 --> 00:09:44.723 we wish to attract foreign knowledge and experience 00:09:44.844 --> 00:09:48.261 and incentivise them to stay here as well, 00:09:48.668 --> 00:09:51.585 and to attract back those Slovenians who, 00:09:51.706 --> 00:09:54.560 due to various circumstances, 00:09:54.887 --> 00:09:58.054 cut their residential ties to Slovenia, 00:09:58.175 --> 00:10:02.175 be it work, studies or gaining experience abroad. 00:10:02.496 --> 00:10:05.680 We expect that the increased employment of personnel 00:10:05.801 --> 00:10:07.769 with potentially high added value 00:10:07.890 --> 00:10:11.137 will raise the added value in the part of the economy 00:10:11.258 --> 00:10:13.535 that has potentially high added value. 00:10:13.996 --> 00:10:16.933 The second important developmental measure 00:10:17.054 --> 00:10:22.153 are tax incentives for rewards in startup companies. 00:10:22.895 --> 00:10:25.680 This measure ensures that individuals 00:10:25.801 --> 00:10:28.645 with special skills and qualifications 00:10:28.856 --> 00:10:31.023 are relieved of some risk, 00:10:31.144 --> 00:10:33.668 especially in cases when a company fails. 00:10:34.270 --> 00:10:36.480 It also addresses the fact that, 00:10:36.601 --> 00:10:40.518 at first, these companies face liquidity issues. 00:10:40.639 --> 00:10:47.400 This measure delays the moment of obligation to pay taxes and fees 00:10:47.693 --> 00:10:51.678 on income from employment to a later date, 00:10:51.867 --> 00:10:55.687 for instance the moment of divestment of gained shares 00:10:55.808 --> 00:10:57.711 or termination of employment. 00:10:58.156 --> 00:11:02.281 The third key measure is a change in administration. 00:11:02.402 --> 00:11:07.367 By deviating from the established procedure of grossing income, 00:11:07.534 --> 00:11:10.527 it in essence lowers the costs of employers 00:11:10.648 --> 00:11:14.237 and increases the attractiveness of rewarding employees 00:11:14.358 --> 00:11:16.043 with stocks and shares. 00:11:16.379 --> 00:11:19.941 The measure stipulates that taxes and contributions 00:11:20.062 --> 00:11:22.645 for the payment of these rewards 00:11:22.766 --> 00:11:26.348 will be paid by the employee and not the employer, 00:11:26.535 --> 00:11:29.118 with the possibility of deferral 00:11:29.239 --> 00:11:32.684 or installment payment for a period of 24 months. 00:11:33.075 --> 00:11:35.881 I would also like to point out the changes 00:11:36.002 --> 00:11:40.248 to the system of sole traders with standardised expenses, 00:11:40.369 --> 00:11:43.467 which was discussed at length in the media as well. 00:11:43.827 --> 00:11:46.904 Firstly, the system of standardised expenses 00:11:47.025 --> 00:11:49.029 was established with the aim 00:11:49.150 --> 00:11:52.286 that those who decide to become self-employed 00:11:52.407 --> 00:11:57.760 initially do not have to deal with administrative obligations as well. 00:11:58.209 --> 00:12:00.480 Instead, the state relieves this 00:12:00.601 --> 00:12:03.889 with the system of standardised expenses. 00:12:04.155 --> 00:12:06.834 Simplified accounting, if you will. 00:12:07.115 --> 00:12:10.326 In recent years, this system has mainly become 00:12:10.447 --> 00:12:12.392 a means of tax optimisation 00:12:12.513 --> 00:12:16.158 and our measure does not inhibit traders, 00:12:16.279 --> 00:12:22.040 but it does lower the limit at which this system can still be used. 00:12:22.969 --> 00:12:26.692 The part that applies to fully standardised expenses, 00:12:26.813 --> 00:12:32.063 where the taxpayer has been fully self-employment 00:12:32.184 --> 00:12:34.566 for at least nine months, 00:12:34.797 --> 00:12:39.250 the limit is being lowered to 60.000 euros of yearly income, 00:12:39.474 --> 00:12:41.974 but it will be possible to use 00:12:42.095 --> 00:12:49.099 expenses amounting to 80% of the income. 00:12:49.220 --> 00:12:53.320 Until now, this benefit was granted only up to 50.000 euros. 00:12:53.786 --> 00:12:59.020 Those who do not meet the conditions for insurance, 00:12:59.141 --> 00:13:01.059 so-called "afternoon s.p.", 00:13:01.180 --> 00:13:04.489 will have the income limited at 30.000 euros. 00:13:05.107 --> 00:13:07.965 To exit the standardised expenses system, 00:13:08.086 --> 00:13:11.583 an average of two consecutive years is determined, 00:13:11.704 --> 00:13:16.705 set at 60.000, 30.000, and 45.000 euros, 00:13:16.826 --> 00:13:19.494 depending on whether the taxpayer 00:13:19.615 --> 00:13:22.699 met the insurance inclusion conditions 00:13:22.975 --> 00:13:25.725 in the last two consecutive years. 00:13:26.608 --> 00:13:31.520 Here I must point out that there were reservations 00:13:31.641 --> 00:13:37.429 about the adequate time that we should give traders 00:13:37.550 --> 00:13:41.520 to adjust to these changes. 00:13:44.229 --> 00:13:51.862 Because they could no longer use the system due to the changes, 00:13:51.983 --> 00:13:56.339 we also stipulated a transitional period. 00:13:56.870 --> 00:14:01.551 Because it is not the aim of the changes to inhibit traders 00:14:01.671 --> 00:14:04.151 with sudden administrative burdens, 00:14:04.272 --> 00:14:08.628 we want to provide a sufficent adjustment period. 00:14:08.814 --> 00:14:15.400 Put simply, on one hand we are lowering the upper limit of income, 00:14:15.884 --> 00:14:20.626 but, what we also added in the last few days, 00:14:20.747 --> 00:14:23.493 is that those sole traders, 00:14:23.614 --> 00:14:31.400 be they "afternoon" or fully self-employed, 00:14:31.818 --> 00:14:38.833 who will this year have an income at or close to the upper limit, 00:14:38.954 --> 00:14:43.454 which is currently different than it will be next year, 00:14:43.638 --> 00:14:49.489 will have the same limit next year as everyone else. 00:14:49.625 --> 00:14:54.895 At this time there will be no averaging of two years. 00:14:55.031 --> 00:14:59.084 Next year, all full-time standardised expense taxpayers 00:14:59.205 --> 00:15:02.529 will have an upper income limit of 60.000 euros, 00:15:02.650 --> 00:15:05.593 and all part-timers 30.000, 00:15:05.714 --> 00:15:09.721 regardless of their income this year. 00:15:09.842 --> 00:15:13.568 So, no one will automatically drop out of the system, 00:15:13.689 --> 00:15:15.561 as the media said. 00:15:16.280 --> 00:15:18.780 For limited liability companies 00:15:18.901 --> 00:15:22.967 operating under the Corporate Income Tax Act 00:15:23.238 --> 00:15:28.160 we are abolishing the special scheme for determining the tax base 00:15:28.281 --> 00:15:31.441 by taking into account standardised expenses. 00:15:31.562 --> 00:15:35.543 The system of standardised expenses is voluntary, not binding. 00:15:35.664 --> 00:15:39.184 Anyone can opt for a different form of conducting business. 00:15:39.472 --> 00:15:45.440 To end, I will respond to yesterday's accusation 00:15:45.561 --> 00:15:50.699 that we are violating the procedures of the Economic and Social Council. 00:15:52.129 --> 00:15:54.047 The package of changes, 00:15:54.168 --> 00:15:57.085 which the government discussed today 00:15:57.206 --> 00:16:00.240 and will be finally confirmed on Friday, 00:16:00.574 --> 00:16:04.934 has been presented by the Ministry of Finance since February. 00:16:05.055 --> 00:16:10.262 The planned measures have been discussed since February. 00:16:11.691 --> 00:16:17.040 first at the level of various departments, 00:16:17.161 --> 00:16:19.582 the coalition, and then publically. 00:16:19.703 --> 00:16:22.274 Practically all economic associations 00:16:22.395 --> 00:16:25.259 have already responded to these measures. 00:16:25.638 --> 00:16:27.504 Our measures are no secret. 00:16:27.625 --> 00:16:30.412 We have been talking about them for months 00:16:30.533 --> 00:16:33.459 and we have also had a public debate. 00:16:34.099 --> 00:16:39.000 As you know, the ESC has not been in operation for a long time, 00:16:39.121 --> 00:16:41.364 and not because of the government. 00:16:41.622 --> 00:16:46.895 When it reformed, at the end of June of this year, 00:16:47.016 --> 00:16:51.716 we presented our measures to the stakeholders at the ESC 00:16:52.028 --> 00:16:54.715 and discussed the material at a session 00:16:54.836 --> 00:17:00.200 at the newly-formed council of the ESC for finance and tax law. 00:17:00.590 --> 00:17:02.723 All that is left is the formal approval 00:17:02.844 --> 00:17:05.114 of the minutes from the committee meeting, 00:17:05.235 --> 00:17:07.650 in which it will be officially confirmed 00:17:07.771 --> 00:17:10.693 that stakeholders have been informed of our measures. 00:17:10.814 --> 00:17:16.540 We will do this, as planned, at the next meeting of the ESC, 00:17:16.661 --> 00:17:19.745 which is set for 13 September. 00:17:20.339 --> 00:17:23.675 I will try to explain further. 00:17:24.566 --> 00:17:26.983 Of the three social partners, 00:17:27.104 --> 00:17:30.771 the ESC, which is starting up its work again, 00:17:30.892 --> 00:17:36.675 signed the agreement at the end of June. 00:17:37.207 --> 00:17:40.746 The whole package has been discussed much earlier. 00:17:40.875 --> 00:17:44.855 It was publically discussed since 3 June, 00:17:44.976 --> 00:17:47.886 and the public consultation was finishing 00:17:48.007 --> 00:17:50.930 just when the agreement with the ESC was signed. 00:17:51.254 --> 00:17:55.723 We believe that this first step is good 00:17:56.020 --> 00:17:59.184 and a good basis to build upon. 00:17:59.411 --> 00:18:02.833 Yes, we will work on other changes, 00:18:02.996 --> 00:18:06.855 like separation of assets and reducing the tax burden on work, 00:18:06.976 --> 00:18:10.215 which we are partly addressing with this package. 00:18:10.426 --> 00:18:13.960 As we said, we are taking enough time for this 00:18:14.081 --> 00:18:21.244 and we are already discussing it with all relevant stakeholders. 00:18:21.675 --> 00:18:27.128 We hope to present the second package of measures to the public 00:18:27.249 --> 00:18:29.640 by the end of this year. 00:18:30.042 --> 00:18:37.400 Now the State Secretary, who is responsible for Taxes, 00:18:37.521 --> 00:18:40.757 and I are available for questions. 00:18:40.909 --> 00:18:45.827 The first one is already at POP TV on Zoom. Go ahead. 00:18:46.098 --> 00:18:48.446 Greetings, I have two questions. 00:18:48.567 --> 00:18:51.977 First, why and how seriosly did it go wrong today 00:18:52.098 --> 00:18:54.682 that this thing wasn't accepted? 00:18:54.803 --> 00:18:58.322 You say the Coalition has been coordinating since February. 00:18:58.565 --> 00:19:01.640 Minister Han also had a very strong response. 00:19:01.761 --> 00:19:04.520 He said that the Ministry of the Economy 00:19:04.641 --> 00:19:07.198 is not yet happy with all of the solutions. 00:19:07.319 --> 00:19:09.971 What went wrong? What will you change 00:19:10.092 --> 00:19:12.885 for it to be adopted at the correspondence session? 00:19:13.006 --> 00:19:16.503 Secondly, there are critiques from economic associations. 00:19:16.624 --> 00:19:19.456 You say these changes are development-oriented 00:19:19.577 --> 00:19:21.855 to increase economic competitiveness. 00:19:21.976 --> 00:19:24.355 I will quote a response: 00:19:24.476 --> 00:19:29.050 "Not a single economic association sees anything in these measures 00:19:29.171 --> 00:19:31.716 that would stimulate economic growth." 00:19:31.837 --> 00:19:34.037 So, those two questions for now. 00:19:37.256 --> 00:19:40.423 Not only today, but in the past as well 00:19:40.544 --> 00:19:45.711 we have explained the development oriented measures many times. 00:19:45.832 --> 00:19:48.249 I explained them again today. 00:19:48.982 --> 00:19:50.582 My door is open. 00:19:51.224 --> 00:19:55.161 If any economists still don't understand it, 00:19:55.282 --> 00:19:58.271 they can come to us and we will explain it. 00:19:58.810 --> 00:20:04.520 I think this is just political shouting. 00:20:05.018 --> 00:20:09.479 The comments from the Ministry of the Economy 00:20:09.721 --> 00:20:13.901 are not intended as a critique of the adopted measures. 00:20:14.440 --> 00:20:19.200 The Ministry is very clear that it supports all of the measures. 00:20:19.533 --> 00:20:23.002 It also understands how they are development-oriented. 00:20:23.123 --> 00:20:25.823 But they have additional proposals, 00:20:25.944 --> 00:20:32.370 which mostly stem from the proposals of economic associations. 00:20:32.690 --> 00:20:38.010 I did not hear a critique that these measures are wrong, 00:20:38.479 --> 00:20:42.956 but I do hear that various other measures are needed. 00:20:43.150 --> 00:20:48.924 But that is constantly the work of our or any other government. 00:20:50.501 --> 00:20:58.486 So, the issues that are still unresolved are minor things, 00:20:58.698 --> 00:21:03.315 which is why we will be confirming them at the correspondence session. 00:21:03.436 --> 00:21:06.409 If any key things were still unresolved, 00:21:06.530 --> 00:21:10.676 the government would not confirm such an important package 00:21:10.797 --> 00:21:14.466 like tax laws at a correspondence session. 00:21:14.872 --> 00:21:17.440 Still POP TV, then Planet. 00:21:18.418 --> 00:21:20.239 The associations' critique is that 00:21:20.360 --> 00:21:24.059 they have representatives at the Strategic Council for Taxes, 00:21:24.180 --> 00:21:28.036 but their proposals have not been heeded. 00:21:28.247 --> 00:21:35.920 They also say that, because the ESC hasn't operated for a while, 00:21:36.087 --> 00:21:39.015 the tax changes did not go over well there 00:21:39.136 --> 00:21:42.164 and they are wondering whether there is any point 00:21:42.285 --> 00:21:44.430 in having this non-existent dialogue. 00:21:46.063 --> 00:21:49.147 Everyone has a right to their opinion. 00:21:49.268 --> 00:21:54.657 I have explained this tax package very clearly. 00:21:54.917 --> 00:21:57.565 Again, I have said this multiple times 00:21:57.686 --> 00:22:01.267 and I constantly worked with the ESC, when it operated, 00:22:01.388 --> 00:22:03.504 no, I absolutely do not agree 00:22:03.625 --> 00:22:06.760 that the dialogue stalled because of the government. 00:22:06.881 --> 00:22:11.686 On the contrary, I believe that the government was the main initiator 00:22:11.807 --> 00:22:15.218 in the signing of this agreement. 00:22:15.409 --> 00:22:17.440 We cannot change the past. 00:22:17.561 --> 00:22:22.720 We did not stop working just because the ESC did not work. 00:22:22.841 --> 00:22:27.255 In the meantime a number of laws was adopted in certain areas, 00:22:27.376 --> 00:22:29.755 like the one we are discussing today. 00:22:30.083 --> 00:22:34.591 Much work has been done with this package of tax changes, 00:22:34.712 --> 00:22:36.896 including formal procedures. 00:22:37.017 --> 00:22:40.154 We cannot adapt every time 00:22:40.275 --> 00:22:44.426 and wait for the ESC to start operating again 00:22:44.547 --> 00:22:47.950 and wait with laws and other changes. 00:22:48.919 --> 00:22:51.872 Thank you. Vitomir Petrović, Planet TV. 00:22:53.169 --> 00:22:58.336 Greetings. Going back to the start of today's press conference, 00:22:58.457 --> 00:23:03.120 Mr. Arčon said that we will receive 00:23:03.396 --> 00:23:11.520 additional funds from the EU, 28 million euros. 00:23:13.044 --> 00:23:16.800 We remember how hard it was 00:23:17.029 --> 00:23:20.732 to find the 10 billion for flood remediation. 00:23:20.853 --> 00:23:24.911 We were scraping it together from everywhere. 00:23:26.775 --> 00:23:30.775 Neverheless, state companies are paying employees 00:23:30.896 --> 00:23:34.768 high monetary rewards this year. 00:23:34.889 --> 00:23:39.752 Would it not be better to redirect this money toward remediation? 00:23:40.111 --> 00:23:42.822 These are state companies after all. 00:23:42.943 --> 00:23:45.979 How do you view this problem? Thank you. 00:23:46.782 --> 00:23:52.360 Very simply, such proposals may look politically appealing, 00:23:52.481 --> 00:23:54.516 but have no ground in reality. 00:23:54.637 --> 00:23:58.102 We keep saying that SDH is an independent body. 00:23:58.223 --> 00:24:02.119 The companies, run by SDH, operate independently. 00:24:02.471 --> 00:24:06.660 The government cannot command SDH, 00:24:06.781 --> 00:24:10.596 and then SDH how to reward personnel. 00:24:10.854 --> 00:24:14.971 On the contrary, I think competitive conditions need to be established, 00:24:15.092 --> 00:24:19.768 so that they would employ the most high-quality managerial personnel. 00:24:19.896 --> 00:24:23.095 As Minister of Finance it is not my competency 00:24:23.216 --> 00:24:25.955 and I will not interfere in the policy 00:24:26.076 --> 00:24:29.720 that is under the purview of SDH and individual companies. 00:24:30.760 --> 00:24:34.479 Tanja Smrekar, Finance, and then Rok Bizjak. 00:24:35.181 --> 00:24:40.603 Apologies, I am having computer issues and I cannot hear you. 00:24:40.846 --> 00:24:43.799 What about now? -Now I can hear you. 00:24:44.596 --> 00:24:48.846 Go ahead. -Tanja Smrekar, Finance. 00:24:49.135 --> 00:24:51.551 About the transitional period 00:24:51.672 --> 00:24:56.639 for sole traders with standardised expenses, if I understood correctly, 00:24:56.759 --> 00:25:00.192 if they exceed an average income of 60.000 euros 00:25:00.313 --> 00:25:05.697 from 2024 to 2025, will they have to leave the system? 00:25:05.818 --> 00:25:11.865 Or will this apply only from 2025 to 2026? 00:25:12.170 --> 00:25:16.435 Thank you, now I will disconnect so I can hear you. 00:25:17.209 --> 00:25:20.201 Go ahead. -Thank you for the question. 00:25:20.408 --> 00:25:22.822 The transitional period is designed 00:25:22.943 --> 00:25:26.943 so that all who meet the conditions for inclusion 00:25:27.064 --> 00:25:30.064 in the full-time and part-time system 00:25:30.463 --> 00:25:34.979 will automatically stay included in this system next year. 00:25:35.588 --> 00:25:39.800 The year after that, the condition for staying in the system 00:25:39.921 --> 00:25:42.821 will be checked in such a way 00:25:43.289 --> 00:25:46.706 that those working in the full-time system 00:25:46.827 --> 00:25:50.077 will not be allowed to exceed 60.000 euros, 00:25:50.198 --> 00:25:55.166 a limit that was set with the new proposal, 00:25:55.287 --> 00:25:59.037 whereas part-timers will not be allowed to exceed 00:25:59.158 --> 00:26:03.335 an income of 30.000 euros in 2025. 00:26:03.538 --> 00:26:07.455 The year after that we will implement the system 00:26:07.576 --> 00:26:11.171 we originally proposed, an average of two years 00:26:11.292 --> 00:26:14.709 that cannot exceed 60.000 or 30.000 euros. 00:26:15.172 --> 00:26:18.586 Thank you. The last one online, Rok Bizjak, STA. 00:26:39.180 --> 00:26:41.597 While Mr. Bizjak is preparing 00:26:41.718 --> 00:26:45.469 we will give the floor to the present journalist. 00:26:45.680 --> 00:26:47.781 Marjeta Bogataj, Demokracija. 00:26:47.902 --> 00:26:52.138 I have a question regarding the tax measure 00:26:52.436 --> 00:26:58.600 intended to attract foreign personnel with added value. 00:26:58.780 --> 00:27:03.280 The Chamber of Craft and Small Business is pointing out 00:27:03.401 --> 00:27:07.725 that this is discrimination toward our citizens. 00:27:07.968 --> 00:27:13.400 How would you comment this? Will there be any changes to this? 00:27:14.827 --> 00:27:16.994 We studied this very well. 00:27:17.115 --> 00:27:20.466 While we were preparing this measure 00:27:20.866 --> 00:27:25.796 we constantly had potential inequality in mind. 00:27:28.389 --> 00:27:31.473 The proposal is prepared in such a way 00:27:32.054 --> 00:27:35.804 that we do not believe it is unconstitutional. 00:27:37.272 --> 00:27:39.428 The reason for that is not just 00:27:39.549 --> 00:27:43.194 that other European countries have similar measures, 00:27:43.315 --> 00:27:46.565 the most well defined ones in this field 00:27:47.296 --> 00:27:50.130 are in Portugal, Spain and Denmark. 00:27:53.489 --> 00:28:00.959 By the way, this fight for the best, most promising personnel, 00:28:01.080 --> 00:28:05.600 is now a fact across the world and all of Europe. 00:28:05.743 --> 00:28:09.957 Slovenia is one of the first states, which have introduced this. 00:28:10.090 --> 00:28:15.770 As I've said, we had studied the measures of other countries 00:28:16.457 --> 00:28:20.183 and we even upgraded them. 00:28:20.430 --> 00:28:24.720 Similar incentives that apply 00:28:24.833 --> 00:28:31.317 to a certain section of population, in this case working population, 00:28:31.470 --> 00:28:35.323 are done also elsewhere. This is not the first case. 00:28:35.763 --> 00:28:38.517 In our legislation there are other incentives 00:28:38.730 --> 00:28:45.603 that are related to a certain section of employees. 00:28:46.597 --> 00:28:48.637 Can I ask one more thing? -Go ahead. 00:28:48.877 --> 00:28:52.897 In connection with the Index of Economic Freedom. 00:28:53.010 --> 00:28:58.157 Marko Lotrič has warned us about one thing. 00:28:59.457 --> 00:29:03.223 This is namely a payment wedge, 00:29:03.510 --> 00:29:09.417 mostly for highly qualified jobs, and this is a deflection of talents. 00:29:10.857 --> 00:29:13.277 What can you say about this? 00:29:13.477 --> 00:29:17.043 And something else about the index. 00:29:17.237 --> 00:29:23.083 The economic slowdown here is not an effect of the German slowdown, 00:29:23.203 --> 00:29:26.463 but more of a misguided economic politics. 00:29:26.610 --> 00:29:29.443 How can you comment this? Thank you. 00:29:29.617 --> 00:29:34.510 I am sure that Mr. Lotrič will commend these measures, 00:29:34.737 --> 00:29:41.463 because the most talked about measure is to attract the promising employees. 00:29:41.603 --> 00:29:45.537 We are addressing exactly what you are talking about. 00:29:46.277 --> 00:29:49.850 As far as economic slowdown is concerned, 00:29:50.130 --> 00:29:56.810 the fact is that European economy is slowing down in the last months. 00:29:57.083 --> 00:30:01.277 At this moment it's hard to predict 00:30:01.703 --> 00:30:06.497 how this will turn. Slovenia is considering all indexes 00:30:06.717 --> 00:30:09.657 still among the best European countries. 00:30:09.870 --> 00:30:13.143 But it's not a secret 00:30:13.377 --> 00:30:17.797 that our economy is very export oriented 00:30:18.037 --> 00:30:24.397 and very dependent on the economic situation in our biggest partners. 00:30:25.097 --> 00:30:27.443 Let's try again with Rok Bizjak 00:30:27.623 --> 00:30:30.110 via internet from STA. 00:30:31.203 --> 00:30:35.317 Hello. I'm sorry, we had some technical difficulties. 00:30:35.603 --> 00:30:41.770 We would like to know, whether you adopted or considered 00:30:41.963 --> 00:30:45.757 substantive amendments of the proposal, 00:30:45.883 --> 00:30:49.130 which was disclosed to the public last. 00:30:51.117 --> 00:30:55.997 Actually no. On today's meeting and later government meeting 00:30:56.163 --> 00:31:03.230 we mostly disclosed the changes that happened since public hearing. 00:31:03.363 --> 00:31:10.283 After the public hearing the Ministry of Finance normally 00:31:10.450 --> 00:31:14.017 gathers all comments. We have considered them 00:31:14.190 --> 00:31:17.177 and addressed some of them. 00:31:17.330 --> 00:31:22.923 This was reflected in amendments and this was the main topic today 00:31:23.023 --> 00:31:25.717 on a government meeting 00:31:26.103 --> 00:31:29.417 and before on a coalition coordination. 00:31:29.850 --> 00:31:33.223 Competent departments were mostly informed about it. 00:31:33.357 --> 00:31:39.170 Another part of discussion was about other prepositions 00:31:39.417 --> 00:31:42.630 of the Ministry of Economy. 00:31:42.830 --> 00:31:46.790 Why we haven't addressed all prepositions? 00:31:46.970 --> 00:31:51.857 Because they are not a part of the context that we are considering here. 00:31:52.110 --> 00:31:56.550 One part was the question of assets. 00:31:56.863 --> 00:32:02.490 I have already explained the path of this or where are we. 00:32:02.703 --> 00:32:04.683 In reality, 00:32:05.470 --> 00:32:09.130 if there was some hesitation, 00:32:09.290 --> 00:32:13.837 I dare say that it's because of annual leaves. 00:32:14.097 --> 00:32:17.383 We were working intensively during the summer, 00:32:17.510 --> 00:32:22.883 otherwise we couldn't prepare the Acts and disclose them today. 00:32:23.223 --> 00:32:26.997 As I've said, we shall adopt them on Friday. 00:32:27.203 --> 00:32:31.890 Of course, there were certain obstacles 00:32:32.016 --> 00:32:34.849 in functioning or responding of some departments 00:32:34.970 --> 00:32:38.057 and in the end from all others as well. 00:32:38.803 --> 00:32:43.837 As we've said, as far as the tax package is considered, 00:32:44.023 --> 00:32:46.823 the content is so important 00:32:47.217 --> 00:32:52.497 that we don't want to consider it on some special sessions. 00:32:52.617 --> 00:32:57.063 It will go in a regular procedure and time is of the essence. 00:32:57.257 --> 00:33:01.357 We have to send this tax package to the National Assembly 00:33:01.497 --> 00:33:03.690 by the end of August, 00:33:03.810 --> 00:33:09.983 if we want it to be adopted in this year under a regular procedure. 00:33:10.683 --> 00:33:13.063 Do you have another question, Rok Bizjak? 00:33:13.490 --> 00:33:18.343 Yes. Another question about a compulsory health contribution. 00:33:18.650 --> 00:33:21.010 Which direction are you taking? 00:33:21.203 --> 00:33:23.850 Can we expect graduated contributions in the next year? 00:33:23.990 --> 00:33:28.370 Is the current premium level of 35 Euros sustainable? 00:33:29.877 --> 00:33:33.223 The discussions about this are still in progress 00:33:33.477 --> 00:33:39.130 between Ministry of Health that is competent for this 00:33:39.397 --> 00:33:42.443 and our Ministry and some other departments. 00:33:43.903 --> 00:33:51.870 When the final solutions about the compulsory health contribution 00:33:52.137 --> 00:33:54.817 are agreed upon, we shall disclose them publicly. 00:33:54.977 --> 00:33:57.743 Nejc Gole, Delo, is asking to speak. 00:33:59.543 --> 00:34:03.243 Hello. We didn't hear you before and I don't know, 00:34:03.383 --> 00:34:05.877 if this was already told. I would like to know, 00:34:05.983 --> 00:34:12.170 if there are any changes about the credits for electrical vehicles? 00:34:12.470 --> 00:34:15.357 And what about the tax on sugary drinks? 00:34:15.590 --> 00:34:18.650 Has something changed? 00:34:19.337 --> 00:34:21.090 Katja. 00:34:22.263 --> 00:34:26.297 In reference to credits for electric vehicles, 00:34:26.403 --> 00:34:29.469 the materials that were sent to government 00:34:29.589 --> 00:34:32.977 and was considered today included a preposition 00:34:33.310 --> 00:34:39.877 to maintain a zero credit rating for a transitional period of five years. 00:34:40.077 --> 00:34:46.367 After this period, with a year 2030, there should be a credit rating 00:34:46.453 --> 00:34:50.267 equivalent to a half of the amount that applies for the use 00:34:50.360 --> 00:34:56.163 of other vehicles on motor fuels under the current legislation. 00:34:56.950 --> 00:34:58.757 Sugary drinks. 00:34:58.983 --> 00:35:02.050 As far as tax on sugary drinks is concerned, 00:35:02.163 --> 00:35:08.930 we proposed that drinks with added sugar and artificial sweeteners, 00:35:09.057 --> 00:35:11.350 which include energy drinks, 00:35:11.470 --> 00:35:16.577 and represent a group of drinks which poses the biggest health threat 00:35:16.803 --> 00:35:21.690 for children and young people and has the biggest impact on obesity 00:35:21.830 --> 00:35:28.423 and health problems of this group of population, connected with it, 00:35:28.723 --> 00:35:33.250 should have increased VAT for such drinks 00:35:33.317 --> 00:35:38.550 from lower rate of 9.5% to general rate of 22%. 00:35:38.827 --> 00:35:44.377 In initial proposal we included the drinks with added flavouring, 00:35:44.570 --> 00:35:47.123 either natural or artificial. 00:35:47.310 --> 00:35:53.243 On the basis of public hearing and meetings with beverage producers 00:35:53.543 --> 00:35:59.583 with their warnings and proposals we have adjusted this preposition 00:35:59.737 --> 00:36:04.117 that drinks with added flavouring won't have a higher VAT. 00:36:04.557 --> 00:36:08.757 If I may add something. I think it's an appropriate question 00:36:09.030 --> 00:36:13.863 about a taxation and a difference between electrical vehicles 00:36:14.003 --> 00:36:18.550 and vehicles with internal combustion engines. 00:36:18.777 --> 00:36:24.190 It is a typical case of, I dare to say, 00:36:24.343 --> 00:36:28.443 good collaboration and compromise of different departments. 00:36:28.637 --> 00:36:32.687 It's no secret that Ministry of Finance advocated 00:36:32.840 --> 00:36:38.770 a faster introduction of credit for electrical vehicles, 00:36:38.957 --> 00:36:45.797 Ministry of Environment has, because of its politics, of course, 00:36:46.057 --> 00:36:51.183 wanted a later introduction of this contribution. 00:36:51.397 --> 00:36:56.923 And a five years time is a compromise between these two departments. 00:36:57.217 --> 00:36:59.097 On the other hand, 00:36:59.350 --> 00:37:04.690 there will be a difference between electrical vehicles, 00:37:04.810 --> 00:37:08.017 namely this credit shall be a half of the amount 00:37:08.157 --> 00:37:12.777 for the vehicles with internal combustion engines. 00:37:13.023 --> 00:37:19.963 From my point of view I find it as an example 00:37:20.137 --> 00:37:22.163 of a good compromise. 00:37:22.597 --> 00:37:26.310 One last question from Marko Milenkovič via Zoom. 00:37:26.437 --> 00:37:29.750 Then the minister and secretary of state will be finished. 00:37:29.843 --> 00:37:34.083 Thank you. I have two questions for you, Mr. Minister. 00:37:34.203 --> 00:37:36.797 The first one relates to electrical vehicles. 00:37:36.963 --> 00:37:40.830 What do you think about introduction of customs duties 00:37:40.977 --> 00:37:43.403 for such vehicles from China? 00:37:43.563 --> 00:37:46.590 I understand that we have to protect a domestic market 00:37:46.757 --> 00:37:49.830 and take action against contested practice. But are we capable 00:37:49.930 --> 00:37:54.563 of reaching environmental goals without an import from China? 00:37:54.710 --> 00:37:56.903 Is the European industry capable of this? The other thing is, 00:37:57.043 --> 00:38:01.110 you have mentioned the importance of this tax package. 00:38:01.250 --> 00:38:06.643 What are projected impacts of this package on public finances? 00:38:07.317 --> 00:38:11.750 Regarding the introduction of customs duties 00:38:12.083 --> 00:38:15.017 on electric vehicles from China, 00:38:16.057 --> 00:38:21.263 it is a European answer on China's action. 00:38:21.550 --> 00:38:26.910 Because China is, in a whole range of industry, 00:38:27.150 --> 00:38:32.223 strategically leading a politics of cross-subsidies 00:38:32.437 --> 00:38:38.583 that are meant to crowd out the competition on international markets. 00:38:38.863 --> 00:38:42.663 Automotive industry is one of the most important European industries 00:38:42.977 --> 00:38:47.023 and this is an answer of the European Commission 00:38:47.290 --> 00:38:50.830 to the lack of transparency in China. 00:38:51.337 --> 00:38:59.143 As you know, China doesn't disclose information about cross-subsidies. 00:38:59.610 --> 00:39:05.697 In a way, we support these measures and understand them, 00:39:06.010 --> 00:39:09.683 but we have to be critical as well. 00:39:10.510 --> 00:39:15.103 I believe, the Commission has to search for answers 00:39:15.477 --> 00:39:20.383 somewhere else, not on taxation of competition, 00:39:20.530 --> 00:39:22.557 even though it's outside Europe. 00:39:23.470 --> 00:39:29.117 I believe Europe can do a lot more for global competition. 00:39:29.297 --> 00:39:32.603 We talked a lot about it, especially this year 00:39:32.797 --> 00:39:36.527 on practically every meeting of Ministers of Finance. 00:39:36.627 --> 00:39:39.117 I'm sure it will be the same in the future as well. 00:39:39.257 --> 00:39:45.857 This topic is the most important for me and my colleagues. 00:39:46.157 --> 00:39:51.130 In this context I wish and I will aim for a goal 00:39:51.310 --> 00:39:56.557 that in the future Europe shall adopt measures, 00:39:56.717 --> 00:40:00.117 which promote the competitiveness of the European economy, 00:40:00.277 --> 00:40:06.663 and not restrictive measures for economies outside Europe. 00:40:07.037 --> 00:40:10.177 Thank you both for this detailed report. 00:40:10.430 --> 00:40:12.377 Have a successful day. 00:40:14.230 --> 00:40:18.610 Now the last speaker is coming, Minister of Culture, Asta Vrečko. 00:40:18.717 --> 00:40:23.190 She will explain, why the government has after 12 years decided 00:40:23.363 --> 00:40:27.803 to raise the RTV contribution for one Euro and a few cents. Go ahead. 00:40:28.250 --> 00:40:29.850 Hello. 00:40:30.810 --> 00:40:35.697 Thank you that you came. 00:40:35.910 --> 00:40:41.223 We decided to increase the RTV contribution 00:40:41.357 --> 00:40:46.103 after long discussions. 00:40:46.250 --> 00:40:50.050 On a meeting we considered two points, 00:40:50.283 --> 00:40:55.070 related to the national media RTV Slovenia. 00:40:55.203 --> 00:40:58.243 First we considered the amendments to the law 00:40:58.350 --> 00:41:01.670 and basis for the amendments to the law on RTV Slovenia. 00:41:01.823 --> 00:41:05.697 And afterwards the decree about changing the amount of contribution. 00:41:06.050 --> 00:41:12.737 RTV Slovenia is namely our biggest cultural, public media institution 00:41:12.910 --> 00:41:20.477 and at the beginning of our tenure we addressed it as our priority. 00:41:20.757 --> 00:41:27.090 Besides the information program, RTV Slovenia has broader tasks. 00:41:27.290 --> 00:41:31.437 Its purpose is to entertain and educate Slovenian public 00:41:31.557 --> 00:41:35.983 with quality contents in culture, sport, science, 00:41:36.150 --> 00:41:40.643 international politics, business, voluntarism and other areas. 00:41:40.843 --> 00:41:44.230 But at the same time, it's its job to ensure 00:41:44.403 --> 00:41:48.977 a protection of archival material for next generations 00:41:49.130 --> 00:41:52.657 and to carry out film and music production. 00:41:52.870 --> 00:41:57.330 One of the important coalition commitments of this government 00:41:57.463 --> 00:42:01.290 was to seriously work on media legislation, 00:42:01.590 --> 00:42:06.197 which is currently very outdated, it's more than 200 years old, 00:42:06.370 --> 00:42:10.670 and to ensure an efficient examination and media platform. 00:42:10.857 --> 00:42:17.117 In the beginning, we adopted an amendment to the RTV Act, 00:42:17.330 --> 00:42:22.710 which removed politics from management and governance. 00:42:22.817 --> 00:42:27.670 We announced then that it's a first and essential step, 00:42:27.883 --> 00:42:32.143 because the politics intervened for far too long 00:42:32.297 --> 00:42:35.637 and this brings some consequences. 00:42:35.870 --> 00:42:40.330 We know that expenditures have increased during this time 00:42:40.477 --> 00:42:45.130 and in the last 12 years. We are all aware, 00:42:45.303 --> 00:42:49.863 from the conversation with RTV management as well, 00:42:50.010 --> 00:42:54.777 that it's not the only problem of RTV Slovenia, 00:42:54.937 --> 00:43:01.130 but we need organizational and legislation changes. 00:43:01.310 --> 00:43:05.037 That's why we have approached this in two phases. 00:43:05.243 --> 00:43:11.823 It's very important that we adopted this in the government. 00:43:12.037 --> 00:43:17.637 We have unanimously adopted the basis and the decree. 00:43:17.777 --> 00:43:22.583 For the basis on RTV Slovenia we agreed 00:43:22.810 --> 00:43:29.397 that we will consider them in government by the end of this year. 00:43:29.630 --> 00:43:33.703 While the decree on contribution increase 00:43:33.883 --> 00:43:40.010 will go into effect on the 1st of January next year. 00:43:41.037 --> 00:43:43.777 I would like to stress 00:43:43.957 --> 00:43:51.490 that RTV is our biggest and public institution. 00:43:51.677 --> 00:43:56.023 With this contribution that is increasing 00:43:56.177 --> 00:43:59.703 from 12.75 to 14 Euros 00:43:59.917 --> 00:44:05.717 we can hear three national radio stations, international radio program 00:44:06.357 --> 00:44:11.336 and we have two regional television and radio centres. 00:44:11.563 --> 00:44:15.510 We have three national programs, MMC, 00:44:15.730 --> 00:44:20.597 which we can watch on every application, mobile phones. 00:44:20.810 --> 00:44:23.823 It has children's programme, documentary programme, 00:44:23.983 --> 00:44:27.243 music and information programme. 00:44:27.457 --> 00:44:31.237 All this is RTV Slovenia. 00:44:31.457 --> 00:44:38.070 And increased costs in all these years bring increase in contribution. 00:44:38.310 --> 00:44:40.943 Unfortunately, it wasn't seriously approached, 00:44:41.077 --> 00:44:46.977 either legislation or contribution increase, from any government so far, 00:44:47.090 --> 00:44:51.197 although we are the fifth government in a row. 00:44:51.343 --> 00:44:56.143 And as we have decided in the beginning, 00:44:56.323 --> 00:44:59.290 we have adopted this today, 00:44:59.503 --> 00:45:03.857 because we believe that the citizens deserve 00:45:04.023 --> 00:45:11.903 a quality public service and they have a right to be informed 00:45:12.117 --> 00:45:18.120 and to be notified, which is of course possible 00:45:18.280 --> 00:45:21.907 only with functional RTV Slovenia. 00:45:22.347 --> 00:45:25.370 Thank you. -Thank you. Are there any questions? 00:45:25.603 --> 00:45:31.537 No? Remotely? You can ask to speak with raising your hand. 00:45:33.310 --> 00:45:35.723 It seems that nobody has questions. 00:45:36.003 --> 00:45:40.297 Okay, we see a hand. Vitomir Petrović of Planet TV. 00:45:40.603 --> 00:45:42.203 Go ahead. 00:45:49.090 --> 00:45:53.457 I think Pop TV was first. I don't know, who has a voice. 00:45:57.563 --> 00:45:59.977 Petrović. -Okay. 00:46:01.190 --> 00:46:04.863 A question for the Minister, not related directly to this topic. 00:46:04.990 --> 00:46:11.203 We are waiting for an answer of Rok Avbar of Ministry of Culture 00:46:11.817 --> 00:46:16.543 about the accusations of influencing on the allocation of funds. 00:46:16.770 --> 00:46:23.417 Will we get a response or we have to wait for Anti-Corruption Commission, 00:46:23.517 --> 00:46:27.970 which is taking a closer look at the warnings 00:46:28.110 --> 00:46:30.903 regarding the strange activities? 00:46:32.150 --> 00:46:38.223 There wasn't any strange activity at the Ministry of Culture. 00:46:38.457 --> 00:46:44.683 Although we can read different fantasy essays in different media. 00:46:44.823 --> 00:46:51.230 As far as certain employees and their answers are concerned, 00:46:51.397 --> 00:46:54.643 you have to ask them directly. 00:46:55.123 --> 00:46:57.777 Thank you. Pop TV has a word. 00:46:58.430 --> 00:47:04.437 Tadej Grešovnik. Pop TV. I will merge two questions. 00:47:04.577 --> 00:47:11.863 My colleague from Planet TV was asking about other topics than RTV 00:47:12.003 --> 00:47:18.417 and I would like to stop here. We can read about accusations 00:47:18.690 --> 00:47:22.763 regarding the numerous employments on Ministry of Culture. 00:47:22.963 --> 00:47:25.310 There should be more than 70. 00:47:25.930 --> 00:47:33.517 Can you confirm these statements and explain such a high number 00:47:33.663 --> 00:47:35.263 in your tenure? 00:47:35.497 --> 00:47:39.417 As far as RTV is concerned. You said it yourself 00:47:39.670 --> 00:47:43.963 that you will introduce certain basis, 00:47:44.123 --> 00:47:50.777 which can change the functioning of the national radio and television, 00:47:50.930 --> 00:47:57.003 namely public service. Can you tell us briefly? 00:47:57.283 --> 00:48:02.557 For a higher contribution people expect 00:48:02.710 --> 00:48:07.217 a rationalization or higher efficiency of a public service. 00:48:07.330 --> 00:48:09.410 What are these basis? Thank you. 00:48:09.590 --> 00:48:13.103 Thank you very much. As I've said, 00:48:13.263 --> 00:48:19.263 certain media that have its political reasoning 00:48:19.450 --> 00:48:25.050 are lately spreading falsehoods, 00:48:25.190 --> 00:48:32.903 lies and very shameless inscriptions that are also insulting. 00:48:33.063 --> 00:48:36.697 Regarding the employment at the Ministry of Culture, 00:48:36.883 --> 00:48:40.917 there are around 150 people employed. 00:48:41.057 --> 00:48:46.257 All employments that are not increased as a shared quota 00:48:46.477 --> 00:48:53.923 or other changes were due to ending of certain apprenticeships, 00:48:54.130 --> 00:48:57.570 cohesion policy. 00:48:57.790 --> 00:49:04.830 We have some fixed-term contracts, 00:49:05.050 --> 00:49:08.197 some co-workers have retired. 00:49:08.343 --> 00:49:12.770 There are also a lot of relocations within certain offices, 00:49:13.010 --> 00:49:16.943 within different Ministries 00:49:17.123 --> 00:49:23.430 and some people who were unfortuantely employed 00:49:23.603 --> 00:49:30.483 without appropriate contracts, when we took over. 00:49:30.637 --> 00:49:36.150 People were working on successive contracts and we took care of this. 00:49:36.283 --> 00:49:42.473 We believe that such things shouldn't be a part of public administration. 00:49:42.640 --> 00:49:49.557 We have submitted these numbers to different media many times 00:49:49.667 --> 00:49:54.903 and we can send them to you too. 00:49:55.050 --> 00:50:00.330 This is a shared quota of the establishment plan on our Ministry 00:50:00.457 --> 00:50:04.830 and it's the same for every Ministry. What is being spread by the people 00:50:05.057 --> 00:50:10.203 without any questions or praxis to write an article 00:50:10.370 --> 00:50:12.957 and then ask something, 00:50:13.090 --> 00:50:18.350 it's just a way to discredit 00:50:18.497 --> 00:50:23.683 the Ministry of Culture, Levica and me personally. 00:50:24.337 --> 00:50:27.583 About RTV as well. -Yes, I'm sorry. 00:50:27.810 --> 00:50:32.430 We will approach the basis of the RTV Act 00:50:32.543 --> 00:50:38.683 in three blocks. It's about what we noticed in conversations, 00:50:38.870 --> 00:50:42.457 where some things should be regulated for many years 00:50:42.603 --> 00:50:47.303 and we have to do it. Other things were announced in the beginning. 00:50:47.403 --> 00:50:53.443 Here it is an improvement of managing the RTV, 00:50:53.557 --> 00:50:59.423 for jurisdiction, administration, 00:50:59.617 --> 00:51:02.343 a need for internal audit, 00:51:02.503 --> 00:51:08.163 a division between a public and commercial activity. 00:51:08.303 --> 00:51:15.390 We saw some public and internal problems. 00:51:15.597 --> 00:51:20.837 There was a problem with a symphony orchestra, 00:51:21.070 --> 00:51:26.170 which is not defined as a part of public service. 00:51:26.377 --> 00:51:32.103 Such proposals and improvements are necessary 00:51:32.230 --> 00:51:39.717 in this proposal. We should consider a financial independency, 00:51:39.817 --> 00:51:43.210 ensured long-term financial independency. 00:51:43.310 --> 00:51:49.770 With an amendment that was already adopted in a poll, 00:51:49.930 --> 00:51:55.027 we have removed the politics from administration and managing of RTV. 00:51:55.147 --> 00:52:00.480 We gave a model of management, where tampering isn't possible. 00:52:00.613 --> 00:52:07.883 Last and this year we have provided 5 and 10 million additional funds 00:52:08.057 --> 00:52:11.350 that RTV needs for its programme. 00:52:11.510 --> 00:52:15.017 If you are an independent media, 00:52:15.197 --> 00:52:18.910 you are also financially stable, financially independent. 00:52:19.097 --> 00:52:24.430 That's why we will think about changing the model 00:52:24.570 --> 00:52:28.483 and about a way of financing that won't... 00:52:28.643 --> 00:52:31.670 That will ensure a financial independency. 00:52:31.870 --> 00:52:35.657 Regarding the organization and internal organization 00:52:35.937 --> 00:52:42.743 the management has to regulate all things 00:52:42.903 --> 00:52:47.357 that we hear about or read about them, 00:52:47.490 --> 00:52:53.350 so this institution can function optimally in public's interest. 00:52:53.457 --> 00:52:59.130 As a legislator we shall enable this with an Act. 00:52:59.357 --> 00:53:03.450 I believe that our RTV, 00:53:03.650 --> 00:53:07.310 which provides service for everybody, 00:53:07.430 --> 00:53:12.903 from the youngest to the oldest on different applications 00:53:13.070 --> 00:53:16.590 and electronic devices, 00:53:16.850 --> 00:53:21.430 shall justify its reputation and its existence 00:53:21.537 --> 00:53:29.423 and become a contemporary media institution 00:53:29.537 --> 00:53:31.363 that we all want. 00:53:31.663 --> 00:53:35.083 We have a question here. Go ahead. 00:53:35.477 --> 00:53:39.370 Hello. Marjeta Bogataj, Demokracija. Just one question. 00:53:39.517 --> 00:53:46.343 Can we expect a limitation or a ban of advertising blocks 00:53:46.483 --> 00:53:48.297 and teleshopping? 00:53:48.823 --> 00:53:52.577 There is a lot of this and everybody is bothered by it. 00:53:52.957 --> 00:53:58.290 We get a lot of such questions at the Ministry of Culture. 00:53:58.437 --> 00:54:04.757 It's a commercial activity of RTV and politics shouldn't interfere. 00:54:04.930 --> 00:54:10.517 This is not a direct matter of the amendment of RTV Slovenia 00:54:10.697 --> 00:54:15.297 in the sense of what kind of advertisements are there. 00:54:15.503 --> 00:54:22.423 Content of advertisements is under the jurisdiction of market inspection 00:54:22.650 --> 00:54:31.070 and Media Act, where a part of it is changing a little. 00:54:31.150 --> 00:54:36.743 But because all of this, we shall think about 00:54:36.917 --> 00:54:41.363 whether there is a way inside RTV Slovenia 00:54:41.510 --> 00:54:44.397 regarding the problems and questions you are stating, 00:54:44.550 --> 00:54:49.390 because there is a lot of them. The RTV Act is not addressing this. 00:54:49.530 --> 00:54:53.317 This are the questions for inspectorates. 00:54:53.657 --> 00:54:58.150 The last question. Vitomir Petrović. I hope the topic is RTV Slovenia. 00:54:58.243 --> 00:54:59.843 Go ahead. 00:55:00.423 --> 00:55:04.417 Unfortuantely not. I want to ask the Minister something. 00:55:04.563 --> 00:55:10.050 Before she said, we should ask such things the participants. 00:55:10.290 --> 00:55:13.323 We asked Mr. Avbar to comment. 00:55:13.523 --> 00:55:18.603 He hides himself behind the public relations office 00:55:18.803 --> 00:55:22.297 of the Ministry you are leading. 00:55:22.517 --> 00:55:27.330 That's why I asked you to somehow take care of this 00:55:27.450 --> 00:55:31.170 that we get an answer or explanations. 00:55:31.590 --> 00:55:35.997 I would like to ask something else. Did I understand this correctly? 00:55:36.223 --> 00:55:44.167 Did you say that the employee in the formal note is lying, 00:55:44.300 --> 00:55:51.537 making up things? Have you initiated a procedure against her? 00:55:52.363 --> 00:55:56.990 I was talking about certain media. 00:55:58.263 --> 00:56:00.203 Thank you. It was not about an employee. 00:56:00.390 --> 00:56:04.083 Thank you, our press conference is now finished. 00:56:04.277 --> 00:56:07.923 Have a nice day. Thank you, Minister. -Thank you.