|
Dear members of the People’s Party!
A year ago, when the five parties represented in the Saeima started work in the Government coalition headed by me, we were all well-aware that the national financial situation is critical and that the ability of Latvia to overcome one of the most challenging periods in the national life will depend on the joint work of this Government.
We were well-aware of the fact that this will not be time for making political popularity, because the decisions that need to be made will be tough and unpopular. At that time, the choice was clear: insolvency of the state or responsible and decisive decision-making by the whole coalition recognizing that there is no way out of crisis without such decisions. Although the political debates were not easy, so far, the coalition has been able to agree on all decisive decisions and I wish to thank the ministers and politicians of the People's Party.
So what has changed today, when the hardest work is accomplished, but the most important decisions are still ahead? In addition to stabilization of public finances and gradual recovery of the reputation in the international financial markets, under the influence of approaching parliamentary elections the agenda of politicians has changed. The parties see an apparent choice between short-term popularity and opportunity to stay accountable.
Therefore, I call on the People's Party to adopt a responsible and constructive decision on further work in the coalition, by giving up bilateral categorical demands, and accepting a proposal of all other government parties on the future work on the proposals formulated by the People's Party
I agree to negotiate new assignments for the Government. However, in order to ensure the stability and support of the parliamentary majority, such an agreement should be reached by all coalition parties. As the Prime Minister I have submitted the proposals of the People’s Party for consideration in the coalition. The coalition parties have agreed to evaluate these proposals and to return to this issue within the coming weeks.
The People’s Party is not a new entrant in the politics of Latvia. You have a serious experience of a government party in your account. If a year ago you agreed to stay in the Government, being aware of the fact that you will also have to assume responsibility for the situation in the country, then I call on the People’s Party to work together until the Saeima elections as we committed during the formation of the Government.
Broad international attention is still paid to the interior policy of Latvia. Any contradictions in the Government are immediately reflected in the financial markets, and they directly affect the fiscal stability our country. Although the elections are approaching and we will feel the increasing impact, a policy that is truly responsible for the country cannot be self-centred and categorical. One party cannot become a guarantee for political stability in the country where five parties are represented in the Government coalition.
Therefore, the work that was jointly undertaken should be continued because it is our responsibility as a government party to the state and for each our elector. I call on the People’s Party to continue work in the coalition till the end of term of the present Government!
Valdis Dombrovskis
Prime Minister
|
