Fiala: Bartoš’s resignation over digitalisation issues not a solution

Prime Minister Petr Fiala (ODS) has dismissed the idea that Regional Development Minister Ivan Bartoš (Pirates) should resign over the ongoing issues with the digitalisation of construction proceedings, stating that such a move would not resolve the underlying problems. Speaking on the discussion program Partie Terezie Tománková on Prima CNN News, Fiala emphasized that the challenges with the new system, which was introduced on July 1, need to be addressed gradually.

Fiala assured that the situation surrounding the digitalisation of construction procedures would not threaten the stability of the government. He noted that by the end of the summer holidays, there should be clarity on how the Ministry for Regional Development (MMR) plans to proceed with the system’s implementation.

“The end of the holiday season is the critical point by which we must determine whether we need a Plan B or if we are simply dealing with implementation issues,” Fiala said. “The functionality of the system is improving weekly, with more applications being submitted and processed, so these issues are being addressed.”

The prime minister underscored that the responsibility for resolving the situation lies with Minister Bartoš and the MMR. “He needs to come up with a solution. So far, he hasn’t indicated that he’s at a loss on how to proceed. The primary responsibility and expertise lie with Minister Bartoš, and I believe he can handle it,” Fiala stated.

While Fiala expressed concern about the situation, he insisted that it would not lead to the dismantling of the government. He acknowledged that the problems cast a negative light on the broader digitalisation efforts within state administration but also highlighted the significant progress made in recent years.

The launch of the digitalised construction management system has been fraught with issues, prompting criticism from coalition politicians. Some have suggested that if the MMR does not resolve the problems by the end of August, Bartoš should be held accountable. On Wednesday, Bartoš faced further scrutiny in the Senate, where senators discussed the potential economic consequences, the departure of workers from building authorities, and the risk of lawsuits against the state. The Senate urged the MMR to consider appointing a crisis manager and forming a working group with representatives from building authorities and the chamber of architects. The ruling TOP 09 party also called for coalition talks to address the difficulties.

During a cabinet meeting on Wednesday, Bartoš committed to further developing the digital construction management system. He promised to make the system more user-friendly for construction authorities, increase automation, and enhance the builder’s portal.

Source: CTK