Everyone Must Be on High Alert.
- Tusk Announces Alert
Hot Topic
03/14/2019
07:00
The Sejm will resume its proceedings at 9:00 with a short voting block. At 9:05, Jacek Czaputowicz will deliver the so-called expose of the Minister of Foreign Affairs in the Sejm, providing information on the tasks of Polish foreign policy in 2019. The debate on this matter will occupy the main part of the day, scheduled until 17:00. President Andrzej Duda will attend the Sejm session and will speak to the media after Czaputowicz's address.
At 11:00, the extraordinary parliamentary committee will hold the first reading of the draft law submitted by PiS concerning the principles of establishing the order of filling seats for Members of the European Parliament elected for the 2019-2024 term. In short, this is the so-called contingency law, related to the potential departure of Great Britain from the EU. The second reading is scheduled for 18:30, suggesting that the Sejm is likely to adopt the proposal tomorrow morning.
Also at 11:00, the parliamentary committee on agriculture and rural development will consider and opine on the motion for a vote of no confidence in the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Jan Krzysztof Ardanowski. The exact date for the Sejm to consider the motion is not yet known, but according to the regulations, it must occur at the next Sejm session falling after 7 days from its submission and no later than the following session.
At 11:30, the Constitutional Tribunal will announce its ruling on the act concerning the National Council of the Judiciary (KRS). In essence, it concerns the election of KRS members by the Sejm from among judges, as well as appeals against KRS resolutions regarding appointments to judicial office. The hearing was originally scheduled for January 3rd but was postponed. The announcement of the Constitutional Tribunal's ruling will take place a few days before the Court of Justice of the European Union hearing on the KRS, scheduled for next Tuesday.
At 10:30, a press conference will be held by the Minister of Health, Professor Łukasz Szumowski. The topic of the conference is: Increasing hospital funding. Meanwhile, at 15:00, a session of the parliamentary committee on territorial self-government and regional policy is scheduled, where information from the National Electoral Commission regarding the course of the 2018 local government elections will be considered.
07:32
- This is not about creating new state-owned entities, meaning road transport companies. It is primarily about cooperation with local governments, because without this cooperation, we are unable to fight communication exclusion. I'm saying this directly, I'm using even a wartime vocabulary. We are fighting the communication exclusion of Poles - said Andrzej Adamczyk in an interview with Piotr Goćek on "Sygnały dnia" on Polish Radio Channel 1.
07:53
- The most important thing is when Poles heard about it. In sufficient time to prepare the law well, which will come into effect from July 1, 2019. Please remember that whenever such a program is presented, there must be an element of unexpected announcements. All political groups have done and are doing so. However, detailed data, calculations, and the number of people definitely came from our ministry - stated Elżbieta Rafalska in an interview with Konrad Piasecki on TVN24's "Rozmowa Piaseckiego," when asked when she learned about the expansion of the 500+ program.
- It didn't surprise me, absolutely. Discussions within the party on this topic had been ongoing for a long time. As early as the beginning of 2019 in Leszno, Prime Minister Szydło said that perhaps there would be 500+ for every child - said the Minister of Family. She emphasized that the situation had changed, and now Poland could afford to finance the program in this form, the 500+ benefit. "Previously, there wasn't the money, now there is," she added.
07:58
- The first [project in the Sejm as part of so-called Kaczyński's 'five-point plan'] to appear will be the one that will be implemented from May 1st, therefore the additional benefit for pensioners and retirees - stated Elżbieta Rafalska in an interview with Konrad Piasecki on TVN24's "Rozmowa Piaseckiego".
08:02
- The [bill expanding the 500+ program to the first child] project is nearing completion. We are ready. It must first go to the Prime Minister. We have our defined roadmap. 21 days of consultations, after consultations. I think next week it will be presented, it will go to consultations, 21 days of consultations - stated Elżbieta Rafalska in an interview with Konrad Piasecki on TVN24's "Rozmowa Piaseckiego".
- There is also a certain streamlining of the application submission period, but these are also technical matters, or what we are fixing in this project is absolutely beneficial for families. This project will be revealed in the coming days, literally in the coming days, within a week at the latest - emphasized the Minister of Family.
08:04
Rafalska:
No Work Underway at the Ministry on Amending the Sunday Trading Restriction Act
– This is the system [regarding the restriction of Sunday trading] that is currently in effect, and it doesn't seem to me that it could change, but of course, everything is in the hands of parliament – stated Elżbieta Rafalska in an interview with Konrad Piasecki on TVN24's "Rozmowa Piaseckiego".
– I can only confirm that no work is underway at the ministry on amending the act restricting Sunday trading – she added.
08:06
Rafalska:
The Probability of Me Getting into the European Parliament is Not High
- The [PiS] lists for the EP are not closed. West Pomerania has an excellent leader, Joachim Brudziński. I have no doubt that he will take and win these elections - stated Elżbieta Rafalska in an interview with Konrad Piasecki on TVN24's "Rozmowa Piaseckiego".
- The probability of me getting into the [European] parliament is not high, but above all, the lists have not been approved - she added.
08:18
Ołdakowski:
Lech Kaczyński Placed Great Importance on Good Relations with Israel. It's an Important Strategic Partner. These Relations Impact Relations with the USA
09:12
Czaputowicz:
Poland is Today an Active and Heard Country, Enjoying Growing Respect from Foreign Partners
- The cooperation of all institutions dealing with foreign policy, the combined vision, goals, and actions of those holding the highest offices in the State have made Poland today an active and heard country, enjoying growing respect from foreign partners - stated Jacek Czaputowicz in the Sejm, during the delivery of his so-called exposé.
09:13
Czaputowicz:
The 'Solidarity' movement and the June 4, 1989 parliamentary election results triggered a chain of events that brought down the walls between East and West
“June '89 also began the process of restoring Poland's rightful place in the world. Polish diplomacy could begin to realize the European and Atlantic aspirations deeply rooted in our society. We have come a long way from a state dependent on the Soviet Union to one of the pillars of NATO and a co-host of the European project.”
09:17
Czaputowicz:
EU Member State Leaders Who Joined the Community Since 2004 to Meet in Warsaw on May 1st
„The European Parliament elections in May will initiate a new institutional cycle. This creates an opportunity and a need to reflect on the priorities we should strive to achieve. Next week's European Council will commence a discussion on the fundamental objectives of internal market policy. On May 9th, we will have an informal meeting of heads of state and government in Sibiu on the future of the European Union, and in June, the European Council will be dedicated to adopting the new Strategic Agenda for the EU” - stated Minister Jacek Czaputowicz in the Sejm.
„Polish diplomacy will be active in the discussion about the future shape of the European Union. On May 1st this year, on the 15th anniversary of Poland and other countries in the region joining the EU, at the invitation of Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki, leaders of member states that have acceded to the EU since 2004 will meet in Warsaw. We want to jointly celebrate this anniversary, which is important for the citizens of Central Europe, and at the same time express the region's opinion on the desired directions for the further development of the European Union. We want to actively participate in the discussion in Sibiu” - he added.
09:19
Czaputowicz:
Threats to the European project come from populist movements - from both the left and the right
„Threats to the European project today also stem from populist movements, both from the left and the right of the political spectrum. We consider these threats to be a symptom of the crisis the Union is facing, not its cause. EU institutions should operate based on competences defined in the treaties and pursue objectives that serve the interests of all its members. In our opinion, proposals to expand the scope of matters where EU decisions are made by majority vote also raise controversy” - said Minister Jacek Czaputowicz in the Sejm.
09:23
Czaputowicz:
We Oppose EU Budget Cuts, Advocate for Strong Cohesion and Common Agricultural Policy Funding
„We are opponents of reducing the EU budget and proponents of maintaining a high level of funding for the Cohesion Policy and the Common Agricultural Policy. Let us recall that the transfer of EU funds is compensation for the opening of markets of weaker economies to the competition of stronger economies, from which the latter derive significant benefits. The deficit of funds after Brexit should be compensated by abandoning budget rebates and increasing the contributions of the remaining Member States. Poland declares its readiness to increase our contribution accordingly” - said Minister Jacek Czaputowicz in the Sejm.
09:27
Czaputowicz:
The European Commission's Proposal to Link EU Budget Payouts to Arbitrarily Assessed Rule of Law is Unacceptable
- The proposal by the Commission to make the disbursement of funds from the Community budget conditional on an arbitrarily assessed state of the rule of law in the countries receiving these funds is unacceptable. The disbursement of these funds is a treaty obligation. What is striking about the Commission's proposal is the lack of precision in the rule of law assessment criteria, a significantly lowered threshold for blocking decisions, and most importantly - the lack of legal basis for such actions. Member states have not granted either the European Commission or a strictly political body like the Council the power to judge, but only the competence to refer matters to the Court of Justice of the EU, stated Jacek Czaputowicz in the Sejm, during the delivery of the so-called expose.
- It should also be emphasized that our reservations are largely shared by the lawyers of the Council of the EU, who oversee the legislative process in Brussels. This position was reflected in the legal opinion of the Council's Legal Service dated October 25, 2018, added the Minister of Foreign Affairs.
09:29
Czaputowicz:
Strengthening NATO's Military Presence on the Alliance's Eastern Flank, Particularly Deepening Polish-US Military Cooperation, Remains Our Priority
- This month, we celebrate the 20th anniversary of Poland's membership in NATO. The raising of the Polish flag at the Alliance's headquarters in Brussels, symbolized Poland's return to its rightful place in Europe and ushered in a new era for our security - stated Jacek Czaputowicz in the Sejm, during his so-called exposé. He added:
"Strengthening NATO's military presence on the North Atlantic Alliance's eastern flank, including particularly deepening Polish-United States military cooperation, remains our priority. We cooperate in this regard with a group of nine countries in our region within the Bucharest Format. The latest example of a common, coordinated voice of the region's states regarding the assessment of threats and strengthening the security of the eastern flank is the fourth meeting of the heads of state of the Bucharest Format on February 28th this year in Košice."He continued:
"We are particularly concerned with strengthening the Alliance's deterrence and defense capabilities. Our ambition to become the core of NATO and US military presence in our region is real. NATO troops are stationed in our country - American soldiers, as well as British, Romanian, and Croatian ones. A multinational command has been established in Elbląg, tasked with coordinating the Alliance's actions on its eastern flank. An American armored brigade is stationed rotationally and continuously in western Poland."- For another year, work coordinated by the Ministry of National Defence on the establishment of an anti-missile base in Redzikowo as a permanent base for US troops of strategic importance has been ongoing. The project raised by Poland to strengthen the military presence of the United States on our territory is taking shape in the ongoing bilateral negotiations - emphasized the Minister of Foreign Affairs.
09:34
Czaputowicz:
Poland Ready to Share Responsibility for Peace and Security in Europe and Beyond with a 360-Degree Approach
“Poland is ready to share responsibility for peace and security both within Europe and beyond its borders in the spirit of a 360-degree approach. To defend the territory of the North Atlantic Alliance, Polish troops are present as part of NATO forces in Latvia and Romania, and Polish aircraft are patrolling Lithuania's airspace. Furthermore, Poland is helping to combat terrorism and counteract the causes of migration outside the NATO area – through activities in Eastern Europe and the Balkans, in Iraq and Afghanistan, and in the Mediterranean and Africa. Due to geographical proximity, training activities of EU missions in Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine are of fundamental importance to us. Since the 1990s, Poland has been present in NATO and European Union missions in Kosovo and in Bosnia and Herzegovina” - stated Minister Jacek Czaputowicz in the Sejm.
09:37
Czaputowicz:
We Consistently Oppose the Nord Stream 2 Project and Support the European Commission's Critical Stance
- We consistently oppose the realization of the Nord Stream 2 project and support the European Commission's critical stance in this regard. The aim of revising the so-called Gas Directive is to bring gas pipelines from third countries under European Union law. In 2018, we built a coalition of over a dozen states, which resulted in the agreement on the text of the Directive revision, hindering Gazprom's ability to exploit its privileged position on the European market. This does not change our negative assessment of Nord Stream 2 - stated Jacek Czaputowicz in the Sejm, during his so-called exposé.
- A key project for the security of gas supply is the construction of the Baltic Pipe gas pipeline, connecting Poland, via Denmark and then Norway, to gas fields in the North Sea. In December 2018, a bilateral agreement was signed, regulating the legal framework for the pipeline's operation. Upon its completion in October 2022, Baltic Pipe - along with the President Lech Kaczyński LNG terminal in Świnoujście - will ensure Poland's genuine energy independence, and will also allow for support in this area for countries in our region - emphasized the Minister of Foreign Affairs.
09:42
Wójcik:
A Team of Experts is Working on Integrating Lay Judges into the System
- It is true that such a team exists and operates within the Ministry of Justice, comprising experts who are working on, among other things, the issue of integrating lay judges into the system. All of this is currently being analyzed. Together with the Kukiz formation as well, since they are very keen on this - said Michał Wójcik in an interview with Jacek Prusinowski on "Sedno Sprawy" on Radio Plus.
- But are there plans to introduce this during this term? - asked the journalist.
- Well, Mr. Editor, yes. A team is working, and I believe that when the time comes, you, the media, will be the first to be informed, and we will inform the rest of society through you - replied Wójcik.
- Minister Ziobro said that such a change would require a constitutional amendment. Do any analyses suggest that this can be avoided? - Prusinowski inquired further.
- All of this is currently being analyzed. It's not a simple matter, but let's remember that we have certain traditions, and we must start from there, because lay judges did function in Poland before the war. They served the community in minor matters. Not all cases need to be handled by judges. Lay judges also function in some countries. I am not a member of the team, so I cannot say whether a constitutional amendment is needed or not. As far as I know, this type of change has always been treated favorably, perhaps by everyone. However, no one has ever implemented it. Since 1989, the justice system has essentially been collapsing - stated Wójcik.
09:42
Czaputowicz:
Poland Consistently Strengthening Strategic Partnership with the United States, a Key NATO Ally
"The prospects for the development of Polish-American cooperation are outlined by the Declaration ‘Defending Freedom and Building Prosperity Through Polish-American Strategic Partnership,’ adopted in September 2018 by the Presidents of the Republic of Poland and the USA. It expands the possibilities for US administration support for the implementation of our security priorities, including strengthening the American military presence in Poland, cooperation in the energy sector, and deepening trade exchange and mutual investments. Visits of an economic nature to the USA, by both the President and the Prime Minister, planned for this year, will serve this purpose."- Our priorities in relations with the USA include expanding the presence of American forces in Poland as part of strengthening NATO's eastern flank, joint projects in the sphere of security and defense, such as the installation of the American missile defense system in Redzikowo and cooperation between the air forces of both countries, and systematically expanding cooperation in terms of energy security, as well as economic, investment, and people-to-people contacts - emphasized the Minister of Foreign Affairs.
09:45
Czaputowicz:
Last Year Marked by Lively Dialogue with Germany
- Our most important neighbour and partner in the European Union is the Federal Republic of Germany. Germany is Poland's dominant trading partner, receiving approximately 28 percent of Polish exports. A strong and stable German economy is therefore an indispensable condition for the economic success of our country and, more broadly, our region. The combined trade balance of the Visegrád Group countries with Germany is higher than for the United States, Russia, or China, respectively. We are thus a significant market for Germany, maintaining a considerable number of jobs in the German economy, and at the same time a valuable source of labour migration for workers who make a substantial contribution to GDP development across the Oder - stated Jacek Czaputowicz in the Sejm, during his so-called exposé.
- The past year was marked by a lively dialogue with Germany. Meetings of the presidents of both countries took place, as well as intergovernmental consultations involving the heads of government. I met with my German counterpart five times. In a joint statement of November 2, 2018, we defined the framework for cooperation between our countries - he continued.
"Germany is an important country within the European Union, and its decisions are crucial for the direction of the organization's reforms. In many areas, we have similar positions; for example, we advocate for full respect of the four freedoms in the common market, including deepening its digital dimension. In the debate over the future of the Union, we count on continued intensive dialogue.
We note with satisfaction that Germany's actions regarding the transformation of the euro area show care to ensure they do not contribute to increased divisions within the European Union. We also observe with appreciation Germany's stance on maintaining sanctions imposed on Russia in connection with its aggression in Crimea and Donbas. However, our approach to the Nord Stream 2 project differs, as we believe it does not serve to ensure the energy security of the European Union."
09:48
Czaputowicz:
We Have Doubts About the Concept of a Multi-Speed Europe
09:54
Czaputowicz:
Our Stance on Migration Reflected in Decisions of the Entire EU
- The Visegrad Group (V4) constitutes an important framework for Poland in conducting regional policy and realizing the interests of the Central European region on the international stage. The core of V4 political cooperation remains the broadly understood EU agenda. In January and June of last year, we developed a common stance on the future of the EU, formulated in declarations adopted by the prime ministers. Our stance on migration was reflected in the decisions of the entire EU. At the same time, we remain open to pragmatic cooperation in the "V4+" format, particularly with European neighbors – stated Jacek Czaputowicz in the Sejm, during the delivery of his so-called expose.
09:59
- Rafał Trzaskowski had this in his program. He fulfilled this promise. I wouldn't sign this charter, especially now before the European Parliament elections, because it sparks another worldview conflict. PiS is using it. Sexual education, absolutely yes - said Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz in an interview with Robert Mazurek on RMF FM's "Morning Conversation".
- According to WHO standards? - the journalist inquired.
- No. According to the wisdom of Polish sexologists, psychologists, teachers, and according to parents' sensitivity - replied the leader of the Polish People's Party (PSL).
10:02
Czaputowicz:
We Appeal for the Implementation of the Council of Europe's Parliamentary Assembly Resolution Calling on Russia to Return the Tu-154 Wreckage to Poland
10:10
Czaputowicz:
Effective Eastern Policy within the EU is Our Strategic Goal. Under this Policy, Poland Focuses on Maintaining a Firm and United Stance Towards Russia
- An effective Eastern policy pursued within the European Union is our strategic goal. Within this policy, Poland is focused on maintaining a firm and united stance towards Russia, as well as an ambitious agenda in relations with the Eastern Partnership countries. In 2019, we will be involved in the celebrations of the tenth anniversary of the Eastern Partnership. We want the current year to be a time of intensive implementation by partner states of commitments undertaken in association agreements, and a time of reflection on the future of the Partnership. We will show the citizens of the European Union that strengthening relations with the East is an investment in the stable future of a united Europe – stated Jacek Czaputowicz in the Sejm, during the delivery of his so-called expose.
10:16
„Regarding relations with Israel, we believe that the signing of a joint declaration by the prime ministers in June 2018 closes last year's dispute over the amendment to the IPN Act. In this context, we note with sadness and consternation that unjust accusations against Poland and Poles continue to be made by some Israeli politicians. Unfortunately, this is also a result of many years of neglect in the field of historical policy and a lack of adequate reactions to the defamation of our country's image worldwide, which has led to the strengthening of false stereotypes” – said Minister Jacek Czaputowicz in the Sejm.
10:18
"The energetic steps and actions taken by Polish state institutions and diplomacy in disseminating knowledge about Polish history are already yielding the first tangible results. We are pleased that in the face of these accusations, our position has been supported by influential Jewish circles and high-ranking representatives of American diplomacy, and that American and Israeli media have presented the issue of Polish-Jewish relations during World War II in a more balanced way, much more balanced than a year ago" – said Minister Jacek Czaputowicz in the Sejm.
"Referring to the future of Polish-Israeli relations, I would like to unequivocally emphasize that we are ready to continue cooperation with Israel, including discussions on difficult topics related to our shared history. However, we do not agree to statements that perpetuate false stereotypes and use a simplified vision of the tragic fates of both nations. The basis of our dialogue should be openness, mutual understanding, and respect for the other side's arguments" – he added.
10:20
10:24
„I can assure Mr. Kołodziejczak that he must reckon with legal consequences. The fact that someone, for the sake of appearances on one television station or another, styles himself as a hipster from Plac Zbawiciela, while for the sake of a protest in Warsaw, he dons a cap à la Lepper and pretends to be a wise peasant, does not exempt him from the obligation to obey the law” - said Minister Joachim Brudziński in an interview with Beata Michniewicz on Radio Trójka.
„He is a well-prepared and well-managed individual who is trying to build his political position, not to improve the lot of farmers” - he added.
10:54
Czaputowicz:
Poland's Economic Growth, Improved Living Standards, and Decreased Unemployment Can Encourage Many Poles to Return Home. We Count on This and Urge Them To Do So.
"At the same time, the presence of such a large Polish community abroad presents an opportunity for active promotion of Polish interests. It is particularly important to have the support of the Polonia in further strengthening Poland's security, making the image of the reforms implemented by our government more realistic, and promoting the truth about Polish history. We would like our compatriots to become important allies of the government in promoting Poland's raison d'état, Polish culture and national memory, and the Polish historical narrative."
11:02
Czaputowicz:
I trust that the main directions of Polish foreign policy are matters that unite us across party lines
- A state's foreign policy is a national matter, not a party one. The role of the Minister of Foreign Affairs is to gain cross-party support for it. I trust that the main directions of Polish foreign policy – concern for the security and development of the state, support for building an efficient, effective, and coherent European Union with a strong democratic mandate, regional cooperation in Central Europe, and support for the independence and territorial integrity of our neighbors – are matters that unite us across party lines, stated Jacek Czaputowicz in the Sejm during his so-called exposé.
- This does not mean that foreign policy should not be subject to critical assessment. I hope that the information I have presented on the tasks of Polish foreign policy in 2019 will be the subject of an in-depth debate. Thanking once again for the attention and presence of the President of the Republic of Poland, the Prime Minister of the Republic of Poland, the esteemed female and male members of parliament, I ask the Sejm of the Republic of Poland to accept the information from the Minister of Foreign Affairs on the tasks of Polish foreign policy in the year 2019 – concluded the head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
11:39
Halicki:
PiS Prioritizes Its Own Interests Over Poland's, Evident in Czaputowicz's Speech
- We note with regret, and we will address this during the debate, that Minister Czaputowicz practically failed to respond to any of the challenges facing Poland within the framework of foreign policy, especially its European dimension - stated Andrzej Halicki at a briefing in the Sejm.
- Europe faces serious challenges. President Macron issued an appeal to EU leaders. We practically didn't hear half a sentence about any response from the Polish government, how the Minister of Foreign Affairs would like to co-decide and guide the community's fate. PiS prioritizes its own interests over Poland's, and this is also evident in this speech, as it talks about propaganda successes, not real challenges - added the PO MP.
11:46
- We had the opportunity to see a broader spectrum of this policy implemented over the past few years, and thus to see a certain consistency in its execution, which, firstly, I find interesting for those who listened to this information, and secondly, for which I thank the Minister, shows that this policy has been implemented in a long-planned and continuous manner - said President Andrzej Duda after the exposé by Minister of Foreign Affairs Jacek Czaputowicz.
11:53
- I appeal for a constructive, calm, and good election campaign, first for the European Parliament, and then for Parliament, so that it will be a campaign showcasing Poland's position and building democracy in Poland, thanks to which we will be a step further in our development, rather than one that causes disgust among citizens who observe it. I also ask for moderation of language during this campaign. I am convinced that a campaign can be conducted with respect for political competitors. I am convinced that an election campaign can be conducted in such a way as to build an opinion of high political culture in our country and that the fundamental rules of democracy have already taken firm root here – said President Andrzej Duda after the exposé by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Jacek Czaputowicz.
11:58
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11:59
12:32
- You had a chance to fix what your predecessor broke, and so catastrophically that it led to a change. If you were so close to Ministers Bartoszewski, Skubiszewski, and Geremek, you knew and surely felt how they built Poland's position, how they successfully pursued national interests, how to act on the European and international stage regarding security and the interests of the Polish nation and society. That was the expectation for improvement. What did you do with it? What did you achieve? How will you be remembered in the annals of history? As a minister who had these tools in his hands, had these tools and opportunities. You missed this chance, but I have good news, especially for Chairwoman Gosiewska. This was your last expose, because we are coming back – stated Andrzej Halicki during the debate on the so-called expose of the Minister of Foreign Affairs.
12:35
Halicki:
No Reinforcement of the Eastern Flank, Fort Trump is an Illusion
12:44
"This ruling will remain invalid if a substitute judge for a properly elected judge, namely Judge [Justyn] Piskorski, participates in issuing this verdict. It doesn't matter when it is issued. Today's decision by Judge [Przyłębska] is simply her disgrace. It's clear that the judge is unfit for a common court judge, let alone a judge of the Constitutional Tribunal. She is unable to adhere to the procedures outlined in the PiS-authored act on the Constitutional Tribunal. This is a disgrace for the Constitutional Tribunal, for Judge Przyłębska, but it also clearly poses a threat to Polish rule of law," stated Kamila Gasiuk-Pihowicz of Civic Platform-Civic Coalition (PO-KO) at a press conference in the Sejm.
12:54
Kamiński:
I Wish to Express Hope That in a Year's Time, From This Podium, We Will Hear a Report and an Announcement of a Return to the Path of Security, Respect, and Success, Guided by the New Government's Policies
13:02
Maciej Stanecki has been removed from the management board of TVP by the National Media Council – Juliusz Braun informed 300POLITYKĘ. Simultaneously, two individuals were appointed: Marzena Paczuska and Piotr Pałka from the Chancellery of the President. Braun emphasizes that "this is a surprising move by the RMN." Furthermore, Mariusz Staniszewski has been removed from the management board of Polish Radio – the board will now consist of a single person.
13:11
Petru:
Since 2015, Polish Foreign Policy Has Been a Cause for National Humiliation Internationally and Shame for Millions of Poles Domestically
“Since 1989, Polish foreign policy has been one of the most important elements in strengthening the power and significance of the Polish state. Since 2015, we have seen only a downward curve, and the past year has been an outright catastrophe regarding our position in the EU. Since 2015, Polish foreign policy has become a source of problems to be solved, a cause for the humiliation of the Polish state on the international stage, and domestically, a reason for the shame of millions of Poles. Our country is being disregarded, has become the target of attacks, and is being overlooked in the most important processes occurring in Europe” – Ryszard Petru from Teraz! stated during the debate on Minister Czaputowicz’s so-called expose.
13:17
The Extraordinary Committee on Electoral Law Changes has given a positive opinion on the bill, including amendments, which regulates the size of the Polish delegation to the European Parliament and the potential change in the number of deputies in the event that Brexit does not occur.
The committee's rapporteur during the second reading will be Ryszard Bartosik.
13:29
Czaputowicz:
A No-Deal Brexit is the Worst Outcome, Harming the Entire EU
- A no-deal Brexit is the worst solution, from which the entire EU will suffer, including Poland, but also the Republic of Ireland and the United Kingdom. If such a scenario were to occur, it would be incomprehensible how the worst-case scenario could be realized. Therefore, we will approach this by meeting the expectations of the British side. If there were a request for additional time to negotiate, discuss, and persuade further, we would certainly support these proposals - stated Jacek Czaputowicz at a briefing in the Sejm.
13:34
- I reviewed last year's statistics. Over 50 ECJ rulings are not permanently implemented by states. There are states that have not implemented 8-10, or fewer. Poland belongs to the group of states that implement all ECJ rulings. Therefore, it should be assumed that this will be the case in the future. Of course, there is also a certain problem here. One would have to consider more deeply whether we are not dealing with such a case here, because sometimes there can be a certain competition between two overarching institutions. There are various European solutions, or whether the Constitution suspends the applicability of European law when a certain conflict arises. This is the case, for example, in Germany, or then European law takes precedence. An important theoretical problem. Therefore, my first unequivocal answer, it applies here. Poland always implements and there is no reason why it should not implement, with this one reservation that I have signaled here – stated Jacek Czaputowicz at a briefing in the Sejm, when asked about Poland's implementation of the ECJ's verdict on the KRS.
14:04
Aleksandra Dulkiewicz, the Mayor of Gdańsk, has presented the official logo for the upcoming celebrations commemorating the 30th anniversary of the June 4th elections.
The logo, shared on her official Twitter account (https://twitter.com/Dulkiewicz_A/status/1106148441028247554), features symbolic elements that evoke the historical significance of this milestone event in Polish history.
The June 4th elections of 1989 were a pivotal moment in Poland's transition from communist rule to democracy. They were the first partially free elections held in the country since World War II and marked a significant step towards the dismantling of the Eastern Bloc.
Details about the specific events and activities planned for the anniversary are expected to be released in the coming weeks.
15:50
- After my speech on February 22nd, Mr. Bochenek was removed from his position as representative because I started inquiring whether this man was still the representative for the organization of the climate summit, and it turned out, in response to my request submitted on February 25th, I asked why this man was still the representative for the organization of the summit, which took place two months earlier. Three days after my intervention, Mr. Bochenek was removed from his position as representative. Three days later, he joins the company [PGNiG] - stated Krzysztof Brejza in an interview with TVN24.
- Coincidentally, three days after my letter was received, when I pointed out that this man holds a position where he is effectively doing nothing anymore, he is removed after three days and swiftly, through a fast track, appointed to SSP. This is a pathology - added the Civic Platform (PO) MP.
16:11
Mosbacher:
Contrary to Media Reports, We Are Making Significant Progress in Talks on Increased U.S. Military Presence in Poland
- A strong denial regarding today's fake news from Wyborcza - commented Adam Bielan on Twitter.
https://twitter.com/USAmbPoland/status/1106202490117201920
16:44
- We have just received a strong denial from the United States Ambassador to Poland regarding this fake news from Gazeta Wyborcza. A very good visit by representatives of the US Department of Defense, the Secretariat of Defense. Very good talks. Almost nothing that appeared today in Gazeta Wyborcza is true. It's not the first time Polish media, either on their own initiative, I don't know if it's because they dislike the government or if they are listening to whispers from the East, have published untrue information about our relations - said Adam Bielan in an interview with Łukasz Jankowski on "Popołudnie WNET".
16:56
Bielan:
European Parliament Lists 90-95% Complete. Some Individuals Still Hesitating, Others We're Persuading. I Think It's a Matter of One to Two Weeks
- The statutory deadline for registering the lists is April 16th. I believe these lists will be registered and revealed earlier. I think it's a matter of two to three weeks. At the last convention in Rzeszów, we revealed our lead candidates. The second candidates were already known previously. In contrast to our competitors, there is clarity regarding the leaders of the lists. We have these lists created in 90-95%. Some individuals are still hesitating, others we are persuading. I think it's a matter of one to two weeks - said Adam Bielan in an interview with Łukasz Jankowski on "Popołudnie WNET".
17:05
– These are journalists with extensive experience in public television who are returning to television, to the board. I hope they will bring a more dynamic character to the institution – said Adam Bielan in an interview with Łukasz Jankowski on "Popołudnie WNET".
– These are journalists with immense experience. Both Ms. Paczuska, who has been working in news programs for many, many years, and Mr. Pałka, who was responsible for entertainment and journalistic matters. I think it's a very strong reinforcement of the board – Bielan added.
17:11
Nitras:
Demands We'd Consider Leftist 20 Years Ago Are Now the Norm. 20 Years Ago I Wouldn't Have Voted for Civil Partnerships, Today I Would, with Full Conviction
17:12
Unofficial:
PiS Parliamentary Club to Hold Off-Site Meeting This Evening
A working meeting of the PiS parliamentary club will take place this evening, 300POLITYKA has learned. It is expected to address political strategy and increased grassroots engagement by PiS parliamentarians. A party leadership source told us that PiS is aware it has outmaneuvered its competitors with two conventions focusing on "Kaczyński's Five" and a European declaration, but greater discipline and mobilization on the ground are needed.
17:20
- You spat in the face of the victims. This conference is a statistical approach to victims. Heartless, without compassion, without reflection. 1.6 victims for 382 perpetrators? This is a lie and manipulation; just look at court rulings. How shameful! - Joanna Scheuring-Wielgus wrote on Twitter, referring to information presented by the Polish Episcopal Conference during today's press conference.
https://twitter.com/JoankaSW/status/1106222447680995328
17:42
- Regarding the total number of cases from January 1, 1990, to mid-2018, there were 382 cases of child sexual abuse. Of these, just under 52%, or 198 cases, involved individuals under 15 years of age, meaning these are cases also prosecuted by state authorities. In contrast, 48% involved individuals over 15 years of age, which amounts to 184 cases - informed Father Wojciech Sadłoń during a press conference organized by the Polish Episcopal Conference.
- Each of these 345 victims under 15 years of age and 280 over 15 years of age should above all evoke pain within us. Primarily within us clergy, including myself as a superior, and my priests. Pain, shame, and guilt that such situations occurred - stated Archbishop Wojciech Polak during the conference.
18:18
Friday's votes will commence at 10:00 AM, instead of the originally planned 9:00 AM. The first reading of the draft amendments to the Labor Code has been moved to 9:00 AM. This block is scheduled to last 2.5 hours.
19:56
Zalewska:
We are in constant contact with the CKE. We are ready to conduct the exams
20:01
Zalewska:
When it turned out that economic growth was high, teachers rightly felt they deserved a larger share of that growth. Hence the groundbreaking decision to move the third installment to September.
- In 2017, teachers were the first group to receive indexation. Before Morawiecki's 'five,' Kaczyński's 'five,' along with Prime Minister Szydło, we announced three rounds of raises. Please note, in 2018, there was acceptance when we began. Later, when it turned out that economic growth was high, teachers rightly felt they deserved a larger share of that economic growth. Hence the groundbreaking decision to move the third installment to September - stated Anna Zalewska in an interview with Bogdan Rymanowski on Polsat News.
20:04
20:12
Budka:
The National Council of the Judiciary is trying to legitimize its unconstitutional existence in an unconstitutional court
20:29
20:37
HEADLINE:
Events: Doubts Surrounding Bochenek's Employment, Facts on Bochenek's Rigging, Skórzyński: At Best, Two Most Important Bishops Trivialized
-- 300POLITYKA LIVEBLOG:
Budka: The National Council of the Judiciary is trying to legitimize its unconstitutional existence within an unconstitutional court.
Budka on the Bishops' Conference: Every crime should be judged, and the prosecution should act.
Zalewska: When it turned out that economic growth was high, teachers rightly decided they wanted a larger share of economic growth. Hence, the groundbreaking decision to postpone the third installment to September.
Zalewska: We are in constant contact with the Central Examination Committee. We are ready to conduct the exams.
Tomorrow's Sejm votes have been moved to 10:00 AM.
Abp Polak: Each victim should evoke pain, shame, and guilt in us.
Scheuring-Wielgus to the Polish Episcopal Conference: You spat in the faces of the victims. Lies and manipulation.
Nitras: Demands that 20 years ago we would have considered leftist are now the norm. 20 years ago, I wouldn't have voted for registered partnerships, but today I would, with full conviction.
Bielan on the new TVP board members: I hope they will give this institution a more dynamic character.
Bielan: The lists for the European Parliament are 90-95% complete. Some people are still hesitating, others we are persuading. I think it's a matter of a week or two.
Bielan on the GW publication regarding Fort Trump: Almost nothing that appeared today in Gazeta Wyborcza is true.
https://300polityka.pl/live/2019/03/14/
*****
POLSAT EVENTS -- POLISH BISHOPS PRESENTED A REPORT ON THE SEXUAL ABUSE OF MINORS BY CLERGY. -- THIS IS ANOTHER MEETING OF POLISH BISHOPS IN RECENT YEARS CONCERNING THE PROBLEM OF PEDOPHILIA IN THE CHURCH, BUT FOR THE FIRST TIME THEY COULD DISCUSS IT BASED ON CONCRETE NUMBERS – Piotr Michalak. -- ALTHOUGH THE BISHOPS THEMSELVES SAY THEY DON'T WANT IT TO BE JUST STATISTICS – Michalak. -- THE PUBLICATION OF THE DOCUMENT IS THE EPISCOPATE'S RESPONSE TO THE DELIBERATIONS OF THE VATICAN SUMMIT CONVENED BY POPE FRANCIS ON THE PROBLEM OF PEDOPHILIA IN THE CHURCH – Michalak continues. -- THE ANNUAL EXPOSÉ OF THE FOREIGN MINISTER. -- THE EXPOSÉ ATTRACTED THE ATTENTION NOT ONLY OF THE MOST IMPORTANT PEOPLE IN THE STATE BUT ALSO REPRESENTATIVES OF OTHER COUNTRIES – Wojciech Dąbrowski. -- FRAGMENTS OF THE EXPOSÉ. -- THE MINISTER EVEN FOUND TIME FOR A LOCAL ACCENT, BUT IT WAS NOT THE NATIVITY SCENES THAT INTERESTED THE OPPOSITION, BUT RELATIONS WITH THE USA – Dąbrowski continues. -- CZAPUTOWICZ SPOKE ABOUT ONGOING NEGOTIATIONS WITH AMERICANS REGARDING THE INCREASE OF AMERICAN MILITARY PRESENCE IN POLAND – Dąbrowski: However, he did not use the term Fort Trump. -- DOUBTS SURROUNDING THE EMPLOYMENT OF THE FORMER GOVERNMENT SPOKESPERSON IN PGNIG. -- THE ISSUE IS THAT RAFAŁ BOCHENEK IS SIMULTANEOUSLY THE CHAIRMAN OF THE MAZOWIAN VOIVODESHIP SEJMİK AND HEAD OF A DEPARTMENT IN A LARGE COMPANY, AND JAROSŁAW KACZYŃSKI HIMSELF SAW A PROBLEM IN SUCH PRACTICES – Dorota Gawryluk. -- AFTER THE CRISIS RELATED TO THE GOVERNMENT BONUSES OF BEATA SZYDŁO, THE PIS CHAIRMAN SAID THAT THE PARTY WOULD NOT SUPPORT LOCAL OFFICIALS RUNNING IN ELECTIONS WHO ARE EARNING EXTRA IN STATE-OWNED COMPANIES – Grzegorz Kępka: It was later specified that the candidate's income could not exceed PLN 15,000 per month. -- RAFAŁ BOCHENEK BECAME A LOCAL OFFICIAL BEFORE HE JOINED PGNIG – Kępka continues: According to the newspaper “Fakt”, he earns between PLN 20,000 and 30,000 per month as marketing director. PGNiG refused to provide information on this matter. -- BOCHENEK RAN ON THE PIS LIST – Kępka. -- BOCHENEK DID NOT RESPOND TO THE REQUEST FOR COMMENT ON HIS NEW JOB – Kępka continues. -- GERALD BIRGFELLNER'S REPRESENTATIVES ANNOUNCED AN APPEAL AGAINST THE PROLONGED INVESTIGATION BY THE PROSECUTOR'S OFFICE. -- THE PUBLISHER OF “WPROST” AND “DO RZECZY” DETAINED BY CBA. ***** TVN FACTS -- IF ANYONE WAS WAITING FOR THE WORD "SORRY," THEY MAY BE DISAPPOINTED – in the preview. -- THESE WORDS WILL GO DOWN IN HISTORY – Krzysztof Skórzyński: We have become accustomed to this ideologically coined slogan, namely "pedophilia in the Church." This slogan, quite skillfully chosen, was intended on the one hand to point to the existing problem, and on the other hand to undermine the authority of the Church – words of Abp. Gądecki. -- AT BEST, TWO OF THE MOST IMPORTANT BISHOPS WERE RELATIVIZING THE CHURCH'S PROBLEMS – Skórzyński: Half of the bishops present at the press conference tried, for almost two hours, to relativize the problem of pedophilia in the Church at best. And more importantly – two of the most important bishops did it – the head and deputy head of the Episcopate. -- A HANDFUL OF STATISTICAL DATA WILL HARDLY CONCEAL THESE WORDS – Skórzyński. -- THE PRIMATE OF POLAND, UNLIKE THE BISHOPS, SPOKE ABOUT THE HARM DONE TO VICTIMS – Skórzyński: The data was collected mainly thanks to the persistence of Father Adam Żak and Primate Wojciech Polak. Both have been dealing with the problem of pedophilia in the Church for several years. They – unlike the chairman and deputy chairman of the KEP – did not speak of an attack on the Church, but of the tragedy of the victims. -- IN THE CHURCH, the Center for Child Protection was established, independent of the Episcopate, operating in Krakow. The primate, Polak, is to be responsible for ensuring that pedophilia in the Church is not swept under the rug. He is considered in the Episcopate – on this matter – a radical who does not split hairs and does not say that talking about "pedophilia in the Church" is an attack on the Church – Skórzyński. -- VICTIMS MAY HAVE WAITED FOR WORDS OF SORRY AND WILL CONTINUE TO WAIT – Skórzyński. -- POLAK IS CONSIDERED A RADICAL AND DOES NOT SPEAK OF PEDOPHILIA AS AN ATTACK ON THE CHURCH – Skórzyński. -- THE PROSECUTOR'S OFFICE IS NOT RUSHING THE INVESTIGATION – in the preview. -- THE TABLET IS THE OPPOSITION'S WAY OF REMINDING PIS POLITICIANS ABOUT A MATTER THEY WOULD RATHER FORGET – Arleta Zalewska. -- IN THE OPINION OF THE REPRESENTATIVES, THE PROSECUTOR'S OFFICE KEEPS ASKING THE SAME QUESTIONS – Zalewska. -- HE DID NOT MENTION THE MERITS OF HIS PREDECESSORS – without material on the Foreign Minister's exposé. -- Bochenek's career resembles one from the Civic Platform era, but that one ended in resignation – in the preview: A few years ago, he was an aspiring weather presenter, then a master of ceremonies at a PiS convention, and now he is a director in a large state-owned company. Rafał Bochenek's dizzying career is somewhat reminiscent of another – from the Civic Platform era. That one, under pressure from PiS, ended in resignation. -- PIS MEANS POSITIONS AND COMPANIES – Jakub Stefaniak. -- I DID NOT DELVE INTO THIS MATTER – Sasin. -- STRIP THEM OF POWER AND THROW OUT THESE MISIEWICZES – Lubnauer. -- J. K. [Jarosław Kaczyński] ON NOT GOING INTO POLITICS FOR MONEY. -- THE PRESIDENT'S PROHIBITIONS, AS WE UNDERSTAND, ONLY APPLIED BEFORE THE ELECTIONS – Knapik. -- HE IS NOT A MEMBER OF PIS – Mazurek. -- KNAPIK ON OSTACHOWICZ AT ORLEN. -- ARE KEMPA AND SZYDŁO APPOINTING THEIR COLLEAGUES BEFORE GOING TO BRUSSELS, BUT WE ARE NOT HEARING ANY ANSWERS – Knapik. -- NOBODY HAD A PROBLEM WITH THE NEWSPAPER TEACHING HOW TO RECOGNIZE A JEW UNTIL KAMIŃSKI'S INTERVENTION – in the preview. -- WORDS FROM THE WORST POGROM TIMES – Paweł Śpiewak. -- IT'S NOT THE PROBLEM THAT IT'S IN THE SEJM, BUT THAT IT EXISTS AT ALL, BECAUSE IT'S A CRIME – Sławomir Nitras. -- I AM WAITING FOR THE PROSECUTOR'S OFFICE TO ACT – Michał Kamiński. -- THE PRIME MINISTER PERSUADED THAT TO GET FROM BŁONIE, ONE MUST GET UP AT FIVE – in the preview. -- THE PRIME MINISTER OUTLINED A DIFFERENT TRAVEL PLAN THAN THE RESIDENTS – Maciej Mazur on the fact that one can get there in half an hour by train. ***** TVP NEWS -- THE MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS DELIVERED HIS SO-CALLED EXPOSÉ IN THE SEJM. -- STRONG PRESENCE IN THE EU AND SECURITY ARE PRIORITIES OF POLISH FOREIGN POLICY – Maksymilian Maszenda. -- MAY 1ST IN WARSAW, A MEETING OF LEADERS FROM ALL 13 MEMBER STATES THAT JOINED THE EU SINCE 2004 – Maszenda. -- CZAPUTOWICZ ALSO SPOKE ABOUT THE INCREASINGLY REAL POSSIBILITY OF JOINING THE G20 – Maszenda. -- A REPRESENTATIVE OF PO-KO [Civic Platform-Coalition] ARGUED THAT POLAND HAD FOUND ITSELF ON THE MARGINS OF INTERNATIONAL POLITICS – Maszenda. -- KUKIZ’15 ALSO CRITICIZED FOREIGN POLICY – Maszenda. -- THE PRESIDENT POSITIVELY ASSESSED THE EXPOSÉ AND CALLED FOR CONSTRUCTIVE DEBATE – Maszenda. -- AN ADDITIONAL PLN 650 MILLION TO IMPROVE ACCESS TO HEALTHCARE SERVICES AND INCREASE HOSPITAL FINANCING – announcement. -- PART OF THE LAWS FROM KACZYŃSKI'S 'FIVE' WILL BE ADDRESSED BY THE SEJM AT THE BEGINNING OF APRIL – Marcin Szypszak. -- SURVEY FOR RP: PiS 40%, KE 38%, Wiosna 7%, Kukiz’15 5%. -- 5 FORMER PRIME MINISTERS ON THE EUROPEAN COALITION LISTS. THE EXACT SHAPE OF THE LISTS WILL BE KNOWN TOMORROW – announcement: Political negotiations for spots on the lists and the program are ongoing. -- A REMINDER OF CIMOSZEWICZ'S STATEMENT FROM THE 1997 FLOOD. -- CIMOSZEWICZ HAS UNDEMOCRATIC ORIGINS – Konrad Wąż. -- POLES REMEMBER LEWANDOWSKI AS A CLOSE COLLABORATOR OF BALCEROWICZ AND A PROPONENT OF LARGE-SCALE PRIVATIZATION – Wąż. -- IT IS STILL UNKNOWN FROM WHICH PLACE AND IN WHICH DISTRICT EWA KOPACZ WILL START – Wąż. -- AMONG THE PEASANTS, THERE ARE CONCERNS ABOUT A POLICY THAT MAY DIRECTLY LEAD TO THE PROMOTION OF SAME-SEX UNIONS – Wąż. -- THE EUROPEAN COALITION IS WEAKENING. JOANNA SCHEURING-WIELGUS HAS LEFT IT – Wąż. -- OPPOSITION TO LGBT+ DECLARATIONS IS GROWING. -- POLISH BISHOPS SAY A LOUD “NO” TO THE LGBT+ CARD – Maciej Sawicki: Representatives of Protestant churches also express strong opposition.Everyone Must Be on High Alert.
- Tusk Announces Alert
Hot Topic
Poles are Waiting, Poland Must Be SAFE
- Civic Coalition Appeals to Duda in New Spot
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I am once again requesting the President’s decision.
- Kosiniak-Kamysz on the SAFE program with the EU Commissioner for Defence
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A Young Generation Politician, President's Age.
- Błaszczak on PiS's Prime Minister Candidate
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If it's to be political theater, we don't want to participate.
- Grabiec on the lack of an official invitation
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