Live Feed

04/05/2019

07:00

Friday's Political Agenda: Continued Talks on Teachers, PiS Political Committee, PM Morawiecki in Lithuania, Round Table Debate with Kwaśniewski and Komorowski

At 11:15, a scientific conference on the legacy of the Round Table will take place at Ujazdowski Castle in Warsaw, with the participation of former presidents Aleksander Kwaśniewski and Bronisław Komorowski. This marks the beginning of the commemorations, organized by left-wing circles, primarily the SLD, which we wrote about on 300POLITYKA on Tuesday.

Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki will be on a visit to Lithuania. The schedule includes, among other things, a meeting with Prime Minister Saulius Skvernelis and soldiers of the Polish Military Contingent "Orlik". The head of the Polish government will also participate in, among other events, the ceremony of unveiling the Lech Kaczyński Memorial Stone.

At 8:00, negotiations between the government and social/union representatives regarding teachers will resume. According to the announcement by Deputy Prime Minister Beata Szydło, the government is to present a new proposal today. Meanwhile, at noon, President Andrzej Duda will present awards to distinguished representatives of military healthcare.

At 12:30, a meeting of the PiS Political Committee will be held. This information was reported by PAP yesterday, and it is also confirmed by 300POLITYKA sources.


07:32

Ardanowski on EC Proposals for Agricultural Subsidies: They Had Their Chance. In 2013, with a Much Larger Budget, When They Negotiated Direct Payments, They Agreed to Lower Subsidies Then

- This declaration that they can, I don't want to say it's laughable, but rather that they had their chance. When in 2013, with a much larger budget, a huge budget, they negotiated direct payments, they agreed at that time to continue with lower, discriminatory subsidies. This is solely a slogan that no one will ever verify - said Jan Krzysztof Ardanowski in an interview with Katarzyna Gójska on Polish Radio's Jedynka program "Sygnały Dnia".


07:40

Ardanowski on Opposition's Arguments Regarding Diseased Meat: 'If Opposition Parties Send Out Such a Signal, All Those Who Fight Against Polish Food Will Rub Their Hands with Joy'
- The cows were not sick, the meat was safe. It was withdrawn, the precautionary principle in the EU speaks of this, but even if it had reached consumers, it was not toxic or harmful in any way. Now, imagine. If opposition parties send out such a signal to the world, if they talk about this, then all those who fight against Polish food, because it sells well in the world, will rub their hands with joy and repeat that it was Poland that sent out the signal - said Jan Krzysztof Ardanowski in an interview with Katarzyna Gójska on 'Sygnały Dnia' on Jedynka radio.

08:05

Bujak Explains His Absence from Politics for Years: 'There Was No One to Work With.' Spring is the First Formation Where My Knowledge and Experience Are Fully Valued
Of course, I was involved in politics, I attended various universities – where I was invited – with workshops, presentations, and lectures on the essence of "Solidarity." I also, one might say, gave lessons in high schools not only about "Solidarity" but also about European values or constitutional issues, and the anchoring of children's and youth rights in our Constitution. There was no one to work with. Simply, there was no one. It turned out that I am unable to work with our, let's say today, acquaintances from Civic Platform. Because to want to work with them, I naturally had expectations, demands. I wanted them, for example, to help with this whole Ukrainian mission, but there was zero interest. Even more so, even a very eloquent, very rude silence for me. There was no one to work with. Spring is the first formation where my knowledge and experience are fully recognized, and it is the first place where what I have to say about Europe and European values in action finds full acceptance – stated Zbigniew Bujak in an interview with Jacek Żakowski on TOK FM.

08:30

Bujak:

What we've been doing in education for 30 years is unbelievable. If our country functioned normally, several ministers responsible for this sector should face impeachment.

- It's easy to start a strike, but very difficult to end it. But we in Poland know how to end them. A strike should conclude with a solid, deep, and seriously considered social agreement. What we've been doing in education for the past 30 years is unbelievable. Normally, if our country functioned differently, several ministers responsible for this sector should stand before the State Tribunal, because such chaos in this area should not be allowed. If this strike ended with a social agreement that encompassed not only financial matters, similar to the '2000 zlotys for every shipyard worker' in August '80, which was the rallying cry, but also a strategic agreement on how we build, reform, and shape our education system, I would feel wonderful - stated Zbigniew Bujak in a conversation with Jacek Żakowski on TOK FM.


08:34

Czarzasty:

We Believe Phasing Out Coal Should Be Very Gradual, Lasting Around 20 Years. It Will Cost Approximately 0.5 Trillion Zlotys

- We believe that phasing out coal should be very gradual, lasting about 20 years. Secondly, we know how much it will cost, because we are observing the entire process that is happening in Germany. In Poland, according to us, it will cost around 0.5 trillion zlotys - said Włodzimierz Czarzasty in an interview with Katarzyna Gójska on "Sygnały Dnia" on Jedynka radio.


08:35

Bujak:

Less Chance of Agreement with This Government Than with the Communists; PiS is Absolutely Convinced of its Mission and Acts According to Authoritarian, Sometimes Even Totalitarian, Schemas
Less [chance of agreement with this government than with the communist government]. This is because they already felt weaker and felt that on the other side they had people who were more mature in terms of substance, backed by what is a global force, namely European culture, European experience. Behind them stands the country of the Soviets, Moscow. These are already values that have shown their destructive role. From this point of view, they were more open to dialogue and seeking solutions. The leadership of PiS is absolutely convinced of its historic mission, and they act according to the best authoritarian, and sometimes even totalitarian, schemas - stated Zbigniew Bujak in an interview with Jacek Żakowski on TOK FM.

08:38

Czarzasty on IPN Abolition: Platforma's Primary Problem is They Were Apparently for its Creation, as Far as I Remember

- The IPN for abolition? Of course, yes. You see, we in the SLD always talked about this. Platforma's primary problem is that, as far as I remember, they were apparently for its creation - said Włodzimierz Czarzasty in an interview with Katarzyna Gójska on "Sygnały Dnia" on Jedynka radio.


08:43

Czarzasty:

20 Teams Within the European Coalition Are Working on Various Issues. We Are Convinced PiS Will Lose Power in Poland, Therefore We Must Be Prepared
Within the European Coalition, 20 teams are working on various matters. We are convinced that PiS will lose power in Poland, and therefore we must be prepared for issues related to both coal and public media – said Włodzimierz Czarzasty in an interview with Katarzyna Gójska on Jedynka Radio's 'Sygnały Dnia'.

08:52

Gowin:

In the Coming Years, We'll Need to Think About a Different Development Engine Than Just Consumption and Social Transfers. The Emphasis Must Be on Investments

- In my opinion, the budgetary possibilities regarding further transfers have significantly shrunk. In the coming years, perhaps in the next terms, we will need to think about a different development engine than just consumption and social transfers. The emphasis will need to be placed on investments. We need huge investments, for example, in energy, still in road infrastructure, in education, science, etc. - stated Jarosław Gowin in a conversation with Marcin Wikło on TVP1's "Political Quarter Hour".

- When I hear the announcements from the European Coalition that they will outdo our social programs, I am convinced that these are promises that have no basis - added the Deputy Prime Minister.


08:54

Szydło:

Government to Present New Social Pact for Education to Social Partners

- The government, in line with our declaration, will also present its proposal. The government will present a new social pact for education, for teachers, to the social partners. This proposal assumes systemic changes and, within these changes, proposals for salary increases for teachers, hence a new social pact for education. I hope that the social partners will accept it and we will be able to begin working on these changes immediately after our discussions, and the youth, the students, will calmly write their exams next week – informed Beata Szydło before the talks regarding teachers.


08:59

Gowin on Teachers: 'I Hope There Won't Be an Apocalypse, But I'm Also Aware That the Chances of Preventing the Strike Are Already Small'

- I hope there won't be an apocalypse, but I'm also aware that the chances of preventing this strike are already small. The government submitted compromise proposals this week. Ones that are feasible from the perspective of the budget's condition. These proposals were rejected by the ZNP, and much better received by "Solidarność". Today, Prime Minister Szydło will also take a step forward towards the demands of the teaching community - stated Jarosław Gowin in an interview with Marcin Wikło on TVP1's "Political Quarter Hour".


09:01

Karczewski on 13th Pension: 'Should We Not Have Given It? Should We Have Given It Later?'

It is obvious that Civic Platform, the opposition, says so, claims so [that the so-called 13th pension is an attempt to bribe before the EP elections]. So, should we not have given it? Should we have given it later? Should we have made the decision after the elections? There is such a coincidence. There are elections, there is money, there is such a possibility” - said the Marshal of the Senate, Stanisław Karczewski, in a conversation with Marcin Fijołek on the morning program of the Catholic radio stations Siódma9.


09:07

Karczewski Asked About Czerwińska's Resignation: Today We Have a Political Committee. We Will Discuss the Future of the Government

"We will definitely not exceed 3% [deficit relative to] GDP. Civic Platform exceeded 3% seven times" - said the Marshal of the Senate, Stanisław Karczewski, in an interview with Marcin Fijołek on the morning program of Catholic radio stations Siódma9.

"Today we have a Political Committee. We will probably discuss the future of the government. The discussion and debate are ongoing, and decisions are made by the party's top leadership and those involved, meaning both Minister [Czerwińska] and the Prime Minister" - he added. 


09:07

Gowin:

In My Assessment, Any Reconstruction Before the Elections Will Only Include Ministerial Candidates Leading Electoral Lists

- [Government dismissals] will definitely happen, because I am convinced that some of the elected ministers will be chosen for the European Parliament. Whether they will happen before the elections – let's arm ourselves with patience, that is Prime Minister Morawiecki's decision. He said, I believe, two weeks ago on Polsat that he would announce his decisions within the next dozen or so days. I think that deadline is approaching. In my assessment, any reconstruction, if it happens before the elections, will only include those ministers who are leading the electoral lists – stated Jarosław Gowin in an interview with Marcin Wikło on TVP1's "Kwadrans polityczny" (Political Quarter Hour).

- Minister Czerwińska is currently preparing the so-called Multiannual Convergence Plan. We should send this plan to the European Commission by the end of April. These are our EU commitments. I am convinced that the minister, who is an excellent professional, will complete this task by the deadline – emphasized the Deputy Prime Minister.


09:14

Gowin:

We've been preliminarily informed by the Prime Minister about the intended changes. The changes will exclusively or almost exclusively affect ministers likely to be in the European Parliament.

- Yes, we have been preliminarily informed by the Prime Minister about the changes he is considering, but you won't get another word out of me. You won't extract any names or ministries. I can only say that these changes, as planned today, will affect exclusively or almost exclusively those ministers who are likely to find themselves in the European Parliament - stated Jarosław Gowin in an interview with Marcin Wikło on TVP1's "Kwadrans polityczny" (Political Quarter Hour).


09:14

Karczewski:

After 30 Years Since June 4th, a Coalition is Forming That Embraces the People Fought Against Then

We will celebrate this date [June 4th] very solemnly in the Senate. We will have a meeting in the Colonnaded Hall. We are inviting all senators from the previous 8 terms. The President will be present, the Prime Minister will be present, we will have speeches, and senators from the 1st term will also be decorated. This is like a closing of a circle” – said Marshal of the Senate, Stanisław Karczewski, in an interview with Marcin Fijołek on the morning program of Catholic radio stations, Siódma9.

After 30 years, a coalition is forming that embraces the people [then] fought against. The mentality and a certain code remain. It is very important to me that we create our future, that we work for our children and grandchildren, based on values” – he added.


09:28

Kłopotek:

I Can't Imagine Us Entering Parliamentary Elections Under the Broadly Defined European Coalition

- In this European Coalition, we are somewhat hiding or blurring our identity. Although, of course, we clearly articulate that on certain issues, especially worldview matters, there is no question of our acceptance. For example, regarding registered partnerships, the proposal for homosexuals to raise children. We will firmly stand by our position on this. Fortunately, this is not the main topic in the European Parliament elections, but what happens in the autumn is what interests me most, because, to be honest, I cannot imagine us entering parliamentary elections under the broadly defined European Coalition - said Eugeniusz Kłopotek in an interview with Jacek Prusinowski on Radio Plus's "Sedno Sprawy" (The Core of the Matter).


09:39

Kłopotek on potential PSL participation in the European Coalition in parliamentary elections: Such a coalition would fall apart within three to four months

- But let's say the decision is also made by the Polish People's Party to run within the European Coalition, because there was a success in May, and it needs to be repeated. Why will I be primarily against it. At that time, if it were still possible to form a parliamentary majority, and thus form a government, then programmatically such a coalition would fall apart within three to four months. It is impossible to reconcile all these arguments that each side of the coalition tries to highlight and treat as most important - said Eugeniusz Kłopotek in an interview with Jacek Prusinowski in "Sedno Sprawy" on Radio Plus.


09:42

Kłopotek on a potential PSL bid within the European Coalition in parliamentary elections: 'This could be the beginning of the end for PSL'

- This could be the beginning of the end for the Polish People's Party. That's why I am absolutely in favor, okay, fine, we've joined the European Coalition now, let it be that way, but in the autumn, I cannot imagine us running within the Coalition, we have to go independently. I want to remain in the PSL until the end of my political career, and I will remain in this PSL. I have never changed my party affiliation and I will not change it - said Eugeniusz Kłopotek in an interview with Jacek Prusinowski on Radio Plus's "The Heart of the Matter".


09:48

Bartoszewski:

The 'Polexit' theory is an absolute nonsense. PiS wants to lead Europe out of Poland, not Poland out of Europe

[The 'Polexit' theory] is an absolute nonsense. I keep repeating that PiS wants to lead Europe out of Poland, not Poland out of Europe. This means they want to limit the Union in Poland, or the Union's presence in Poland, to just giving money. However, they don't want Poland to be obliged to uphold certain European norms and values” - said Władysław Teofil Bartoszewski, a PSL candidate for the European Parliament, in an interview with Robert Mazurek on RMF FM.


09:49

Kłopotek:

Five Terms, 20 Years in Parliament, Thank You, Enough. End of Political Career Regarding Candidacy for the Sejm RP

- Five terms, 20 years here in parliament, thank you, enough. The end of my political career as far as running for the Sejm of the Republic of Poland is concerned. I am currently working professionally outside the Polish parliament; I would remind you that I manage an experimental facility of the National Institute of Animal Science, a state institute, to be clear. This work is very satisfying for me. If I am given the opportunity, I would like to work a little longer - said Eugeniusz Kłopotek in an interview with Jacek Prusinowski on "Sedno Sprawy" (The Heart of the Matter) on Radio Plus.


10:44

Timmermans to Meet with SLD Board on Sunday. Left-Wing Politician on the Sidelines: Old Fox Timmermans Puts on a Show with Biedroń, Does Business with Czarzasty

On Sunday at 6:00 PM, Frans Timmermans will meet with the SLD board at the Alliance's headquarters on Złota Street – 300POLITYKA has learned. Earlier – as we were the first to report – Timmermans will participate in the Wiosna convention at the nearby Palladium.

"Old fox Timmermans puts on a show with Biedroń, does business with Czarzasty" – a left-wing politician, wishing to remain anonymous, tells us.

Włodzimierz Cimoszewicz, speaking on Agnieszka Gozdyra's program on Polsat News on Thursday evening, cut short speculation: potential SLD MEPs elected from the European Coalition lists will, after the elections, join the European Socialists and Democrats faction, and not, as suggested, the EPP.

This applies to all SLD politicians running on the KE lists – we hear, including former Prime Ministers: Miller, Cimoszewicz, and Belka. In this way, SLD, with several MEPs, would be a more attractive, because more reliable, partner for Timmermans, running as the Spitzenkandidat for European socialists, than Wiosna, whose current polls suggest an uncertain 3-4 seats in the EP – we hear.


11:01

Nitras on the Adoption of the Mobility Package: What PiS and the Government Lost Was the Ability to Build Political Strength Around Themselves Sufficient to Block Such Harmful Regulations for Poland

- What the Law and Justice party lost, what the government lost, was the ability to build political strength around themselves, sufficient to block regulations of this type that are harmful to Poland, to the common market. It's very easy to say that 1:27 is a success, but in the end, mathematics is stronger than someone's well-being - said Sławomir Nitras during a press conference in the Sejm.


11:29

Obajtek:

Thanks to Możeiki, We Ensure Energy Security for the Entire Region. This Project Was Only Possible Thanks to the Vision and Support of Lech Kaczyński
- Orlen Lietuva and the Możeiki refinery are very important assets within the ORLEN Group. Możeiki accounts for almost 1/3 of crude oil processing in the PKN ORLEN Group. Thanks to owning Możeiki, we have ensured our presence in the Baltic states' markets. We can also balance demand in the Polish market and ensure energy security in our region. And thanks to management changes, cost optimization, and the implementation of development projects, the company is finally generating profits. The acquisition of Możeiki is one of the most important business decisions. It has strategic significance for ORLEN, the Polish economy, and the fuel and energy security of our country and the Baltic region. This project was only possible thanks to the vision and support of the late President Prof. Lech Kaczyński – said Daniel Obajtek, CEO of PKN ORLEN, during a meeting with the Prime Ministers of Poland and Lithuania at the Orlen refinery in Lithuania. - The Możeiki refinery is the second largest in the ORLEN Capital Group in terms of crude oil processing volume (over 10 million tons per year). Recent years, and especially the last year, have shown that this was a strategic investment for Orlen. The growing position of our Lithuanian subsidiary is the result of recently implemented optimization measures and innovative projects. Over the last three years (2016-2018), we generated approximately PLN 2 billion in profit. The increasing importance of Orlen Lietuva confirms the correctness of the decision made 10 years ago to purchase Możeiki – Obajtek added. Obajtek also spoke about the strategic role of Możeiki: - In recent years, we have seen increasing demand for petroleum products sold in Poland. This is related to the introduction of a series of positive legal solutions in Polish legislation aimed at sealing the grey market in the fuel industry. As a result, sales of fuels from legal sources have increased. High demand for diesel fuel in Poland is met precisely thanks to the Możeiki refinery. We are considering that transported volumes from Lithuania towards Poland may increase in the coming years. The Możeiki refinery now has strategic importance for ORLEN, the Polish economy, and the fuel and energy security of our country and the Baltic region.

11:30

Neumann:

We are submitting a motion of no confidence against Minister Zalewska

- The proposals the government is preparing for teachers seem to be only aimed at further escalating the situation. We announced that we would submit a motion of no confidence against Minister Zalewska if there were no results from these discussions. Today it is evident that not only are there no results from these discussions, but Minister Zalewska is entirely unnecessary in this government. She is not participating in the talks, nor is she explaining the situation she has caused to Poles. She is personally responsible for the chaos in education; it is Minister Zalewska who is responsible for this strike, for these inconvenconveniences for children and parents, for the situation among teachers and among the bodies responsible for their management, i.e., local governments. We are submitting a motion of no confidence against Minister Zalewska; she deserves not Brussels and not money from Brussels, but packing her schoolbag and moving to the dunce's stool to observe what she has destroyed in Polish education - said Sławomir Neumann during a press conference in the Sejm.


11:31

Szydło:

Two Unions Maintain Strike Vow During Exams, But Time Remains. Government Ready for Talks
In line with our declaration, the government today prepared a new proposal for the social side, for social partners. We have prepared a proposal that meets the expectations of teachers and the teaching community for salary increases. We have presented a new social contract for teachers, the primary goal of which is to increase teacher salaries. But on the other hand, everyone, including the teachers, our social partners who spoke with us, realized that the system must be changed because the current one has simply ceased to be a system that guarantees real salary growth opportunities for teachers, creating a system that will guarantee financial security for this professional group, and on the other hand, it also had to consider the possibilities of the budget, state finances - stated Beata Szydło at a briefing at the RDS. She added:
"We decided that this is the moment when systemic changes that will modernize this system need to be introduced. Therefore, our offer today is as follows. Firstly, we are submitting an offer consisting of two parts. The first part includes the commitments we have already made, i.e., a salary increase in September, a second one this year. The first 5% was in January, and another one will take place in September. In total, it will be 15%. Secondly, shortening the professional development path, the internship. Thirdly, establishing a minimum amount for the form tutor allowance at PLN 300. Fourthly, changing the teacher evaluation system, and fifthly, reducing bureaucratic burdens that also affect teachers and principals. This is a five-point proposal that we stand by, and we are ready to sign an agreement. One of the trade union centers, 'Solidarność' (Solidarity), has declared that this satisfies them, that they want to sign this agreement. However, the second part of our offer is precisely the new social contract for teachers concerning salary increases. This is, of course, included in the systemic changes we have also called the new pact for education, but the most important part is the new social contract for teachers, meaning the modernization of the system guaranteeing salary increases."
- I must state with regret that two trade union centers have maintained their intention to strike during the exams, but we still have time. The government is ready for talks - emphasized the Deputy Prime Minister.

11:58

Szydło:

We've Proposed a New Social Contract for Teachers

- We've proposed a new social contract for teachers, meaning an increase in salaries towards levels seen in OECD countries - stated Beata Szydło at a briefing at the Social Dialogue Council (RDS). She added:

"The first proposal is to increase the teaching load to 22 hours, and the second to 24 hours. While keeping the current total working time the same, i.e., 40 hours, which, in addition to the hours spent teaching, beyond the teaching load, also includes time for extracurricular activities, self-study, preparation, etc. We are not changing this parameter. However, we are proposing two options: a teaching load of 22 or 24 hours."

She continued:
"Our proposal is as follows: we sign an agreement and immediately implement this package of changes concerning the current year with a raise in September. We will commence work on systemic changes. By mid-May, we will prepare the assumptions for the draft law, by the end of June, we will complete the legislative process, and from the new school year, we will introduce this new project and changes, starting this work immediately once there is a willingness from our partners."









https://twitter.com/jsuchecka/status/1114087486983159809


12:08

Gardias:

The Government Prepared a Presentation Solely for the Media. This Seems to Be Driving the Sides Further Apart.

- As of 11 AM, the sides have not reached an agreement, and as the head of the RDS, I deeply regret this. My role is quite difficult because my heart is with the union, yet I must remain very objective during these negotiations. I have proposed to the parties that if either side has a proposal, we can resume talks on Sunday at 6 PM – stated Dorota Gardias at a briefing at the RDS.

- I observed the government's press conference with sadness at a certain point, when a presentation prepared solely for the media was shown. This presentation should have first been presented to all parties in the room on the right, where we were deliberating. This seems to be driving the sides even further apart from what we have been strongly building over these 5 days – she added.


12:10

Broniarz:

No Circumstances or Premises Justify Discussing Suspension of Strike Action on Monday

- There are no circumstances or premises that would give us legitimacy to discuss the suspension of strike action on Monday. The trade unions have presented their joint, repeatedly modified proposal for teacher salary increases in 2019. We are sticking to this proposal – stated Sławomir Broniarz at a briefing in the RDS (Social Dialogue Council).


12:47

Poręba:

Mobility Package Vote Revealed PO and European Coalition's Irrelevance in the European Parliament. They Act on Dictates of Larger Countries

"A very important discussion, report, and debate on what the future of transport companies and the transport sector in Europe will look like in the coming years. Law and Justice has consistently, for years, stood on the side of these companies, entrepreneurs involved in transport activities, and we tried very hard to reformat these reports submitted in the European Parliament to be beneficial for our transport sector. The day the report was voted on, as well as the entire preceding situation concerning the so-called mobility package, showed that for the first time in the European Parliament, a situation arose where, breaking all possible rules and procedures, these reports began to be processed against the law" - said PiS MEP Tomasz Poręba at a press conference.

"The largest political groups - the EPP, which includes PO and PSL, and the socialist group, which includes SLD - decided, against the law and regulations, that these reports would be processed. Contrary to what the European Coalition claims about being in the largest political groups in the EU, these largest groups, despite any standards, simply voted these reports through. These are harmful, bad reports that decidedly do not improve the functioning of transport in Europe, are against the elementary principle of competitiveness, the flow of goods, and services. They are a legal monstrosity" - he added. "The vote on the mobility package showed that PO and the broadly understood European Coalition mean nothing in the European Parliament. They act on the dictates of the largest countries, MEPs who represent Germany, France, or Italy."


12:53

Poręba on Today's PiS Political Committee Meeting: We Don't Anticipate Any Decisions Regarding Reconstruction

The Political Committee is meeting today in a very standard manner to discuss the current political situation. We do not anticipate any decisions that would concern the [reconstruction] issue. A discussion on the current political situation” – stated PiS MEP, Tomasz Poręba, at a press conference.


12:58

Morawiecki:

The Most Important Monuments Are Living Monuments, and Możejki Is a Living Monument to President Kaczyński, Creating Good Prospects for Future Energy Independence
President Lech Kaczyński knew that we must build a common history despite certain differences and difficulties that exist between us. To also build a common future and overcome certain misunderstandings from the past. The most important monuments are living monuments, and Możejki is such a living monument to President Lech Kaczyński. A living monument that today connects the economic lifelines of our countries, that creates good prospects for the future, for independence from uncertain energy sources, from uncertain neighbours. We owe all of this to President Lech Kaczyński, and I would like to thank all our friends in Lithuania who cherish this memory – stated Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki in Lithuania, during the ceremony of unveiling the Memorial Stone of President Lech Kaczyński, with the participation of the Prime Ministers of Poland and Lithuania.

14:15

Mazurek After PiS Political Committee Meeting: Today a Decision Was Made That Only PMM Will Comment on Reconstruction

- At today's Political Committee, we discussed internal, organizational matters of our party, related to, among other things, admitting new members. We talked about the current situation related to the campaign, the running of the campaign by our staff, individual campaigns, and that it's good that it's intensive and should be so. Regarding the question about reconstruction, we decided that the only person who will speak on this matter, discussing when, whom, and to what extent, will be Prime Minister Morawiecki - stated Beata Mazurek after the PiS Political Committee meeting.

- Today a decision was made that only Prime Minister Morawiecki will comment on the topic of reconstruction - emphasized the PiS spokesperson. - There are various leaks, often they are false and unverified information. We decided that this is the competence of the head of government - she added.


14:24

Mazurek:

Everyone We Said Would Run, Is Running. The Hate Against Zalewska is Unjustified

- Everyone we said would run in the [EP] elections, is running in the elections. The hate against Minister Zalewska is unjustified. Money for education was provided by the PiS government. The offer is on the table and I believe it should be analyzed. However, I would like to appeal for one thing: to remind everyone that for years, when there were no raises for teachers, when schools were being closed, when teachers were losing their jobs, Mr. Broniarz, who is so active and protesting in defense of his professional colleagues, was not present. This is puzzling. Today, disputes must not be resolved at the expense of a child's well-being - stated Beata Mazurek after a meeting of the PiS Political Committee, when asked if Anna Zalewska would run for the EP.


14:28

Rafalska:

I Would Like to Debunk False, Untrue Information That the 13th Pension Will Be Financed Entirely from the Labour Fund

- I would like to debunk false, untrue information regarding the fact that the 13th pension, "Emerytura plus" (Pension Plus), will be financed entirely from the Labour Fund. I believe a significant portion of MPs have not properly read the Regulatory Impact Assessment (OSR) or have not listened to the information provided in the Sejm. I want to state this clearly. Only a small group of beneficiaries, approximately 100,000 people, who receive pre-retirement benefits and pre-retirement allowances, will have this 13th pension financed from the Labour Fund, costing PLN 110 million. Meanwhile, there are almost 10 million eligible beneficiaries, and the entire expenditure for the 13th pension amounts to nearly PLN 11 billion - stated Beata Mazurek after a meeting of the Law and Justice (PiS) Political Committee.


14:46

Amber Gold Commission Report Due by End of April; Wassermann Cites Unfulfilled Advisor Duties

The final report from the Amber Gold parliamentary inquiry committee is expected by the end of April, 300POLITYKA has learned. The chairperson, Małgorzata Wassermann, is currently in the final stages of its creation. The document was initially slated for completion last year, and the then-PiS candidate for Kraków mayor had announced in May that the report would be ready by early November at the latest.

The six-month delay is reportedly due to cooperation issues within the inquiry committee, primarily with advisors selected by individual members. "*The advisors were asked to write certain parts of the report. Some of them fulfilled their duties, others did not*," Wassermann told 300POLITYCE. The committee convened twice in closed sessions last week, with discussions focusing on the technical aspects of drafting the final report.

"*The committee is falling apart. It's not a suspension of work, but a disintegration, and a search for justification that the committee makes sense*," argues Krzysztof Brejza of Civic Platform. "*Chairman Kaczyński said it's not yet time for the report, and that's why it's not being produced*." Wassermann refutes these accusations, explaining that the sole reason for the report's delay is obstruction by committee advisors, not just those affiliated with the opposition. 

Some politicians are already downplaying the committee's work and are not attending meetings. The chairperson has announced that the document will be completed by the end of April. Unofficially, opposition representatives are also working on their own minority report.

*Photo: First session of the Amber Gold parliamentary inquiry committee (July 2016)*


16:48

PKO BP's European Leadership Awards 2019 Recognition as an Innovation Leader

In the European Leadership Awards 2019 competition, PKO Bank Polski triumphed in the Innovation Leader category. The jury recognized the Bank for its dynamic digital development of products and services, effective implementation of solutions using new technologies, collaboration with the technological startup ecosystem, and strong development of mobile channels.


17:27

PM Morawiecki in Special Clip: Economy and Society Go Hand in Hand, Directly Connected. We're Following This Path in Fulfilling Our 'New Five' Promises.

- Poland is an extraordinary place. We are a country of extraordinary people, a great history, beautiful nature and architecture, as well as impressive economic success. It is inventive and hardworking Poles who drive the Polish economy. The economy is primarily about people, but it's also worth citing a few figures. Between 2016 and 2018, the Polish economy grew by almost 15%. This is significantly more than the EU average. Over the last three years, unemployment has fallen by nearly half, to its lowest level since 1990. Not only is there more work, but our earnings are also growing. Since 2015, the average monthly Polish wage has increased by approximately 20% - said Mateusz Morawiecki in a new clip.

- It is important that the salaries of all Poles and the minimum wage are growing dynamically, not just the profits of the most well-off. And last year, economic growth was the highest in 11 years, with very low inflation, meaning very low average price increases. We take care of today, but we don't forget about tomorrow and we are building solid foundations for further development. Poland is one of the leaders in reindustrialization. Since 2015, hundreds of thousands of new jobs have been created in industry in Poland. Employment in this sector grew twice as fast as in the entire European Union. Poland has also introduced many broad social programs supporting Polish families. It is thanks to state support in recent years, among other things, that extreme poverty among children has decreased by almost half - the Prime Minister continued.

- This development is occurring alongside a decrease in Poland's public debt in relation to GDP. In 2018, debt fell below 50% of GDP, to its lowest level in 10 years. For these reasons, among others, the FTSE Russell agency has classified the Polish economy among developed markets. No one has been promoted to this group for almost a decade. The economy and society go hand in hand, they are directly connected, and we are following this path. We are also following this path in fulfilling our promises from the 'New Five' - the Prime Minister concluded.


19:41

Dworczyk on Tomorrow's PiS Convention: We Will Present Another Element of Our Campaign. We Want to Talk to Farmers

- We will be presenting another element of our campaign. We want to talk to farmers. We want the Polish countryside to develop dynamically. These will certainly be important accents of this convention – said Michał Dworczyk in an interview with Piotr Witwicki on the Polsat News program “Wydarzenia i Opinie”.


19:43

Dworczyk:

I Ask Teachers to Consider. If They Want to Continue the Strike, Yes, But Outside of Exam Days
- I very much ask the teachers to consider. If they want to continue the strike, yes, but outside of the days when exams are held. Children should not suffer - said Michał Dworczyk in an interview with Piotr Witwicki on the program "Wydarzenia i Opinie" (Events and Opinions) on Polsat News.

20:11

Grabiec:

Telling teachers during last-chance talks that they must work more and then, perhaps, they'll deserve some raises in three to four years is unimaginable arrogance.

- Telling teachers during last-chance talks that they must work more and then, perhaps, they'll deserve some raises in three to four years is unimaginable arrogance. At a time when this government has systematically led to the escalating crisis in education for three years, and today this abscess is starting to burst – said Jan Grabiec in an interview with Katarzyna Kolenda-Zaleska on TVN24's "Fakty po faktach".


20:12

Grabiec:

We Need the Experience of Both Those Who Led Poland into the EU as Prime Ministers and the Experience from Non-Governmental Organizations. We Have Such Candidates on Our Lists

- We need the experience of both those who, as prime ministers, led Poland into the European Union, who built Poland's positive image in the world, and also the experience from non-governmental organizations or social activities of those who have not participated in politics. We have such candidates on our lists - said Jan Grabiec in an interview with Katarzyna Kolenda-Zaleska on TVN24's "Fakty po faktach".


20:13

Śmiszek:

We are fresh energy. Out of 130 people running on The Spring's lists, we only have a few politicians

- We are fresh energy, fresh air, because Europe needs this fresh air. Out of the 130 people who are candidates on The Spring's lists, we only have a few politicians who have this experience. I myself am a very fresh person in politics, because I realized that my experience is simply needed there – said Krzysztof Śmiszek in an interview with Katarzyna Kolenda-Zaleska on TVN24's "Fakty po faktach".


20:24

Kwaśniewski:

The Finance Minister is probably the only case in the world who remains silent. I don't even know what her voice sounds like.

- The finance minister is probably the only case in the world who remains silent. I don't even know what her voice sounds like. I don't know if she speaks loudly or softly. For years, when I was in government, I considered the finance minister an unpopular figure, the Cerberus of our common money. Today we have a silent person, a lady who hasn't said anything - said Aleksander Kwaśniewski in a conversation with Katarzyna Kolenda-Zaleska on TVN24's "Fakty po faktach".


20:25

Kwaśniewski:

I was elected president twice; I trust Polish voters. They know perfectly well that European elections are about whether we want a common, further integrated Europe, or if we want to move towards internal quarrels.

- I rate voters higher than the politicians acting today. I have an argument. I was elected president twice; I trust Polish voters. I believe they are rational, so I trust them. They know perfectly well that European elections concern one, but fundamental, matter. Do we want a common, further integrated Europe, which will be able to participate in the global race of the 21st century, or do we want to go, as the Russians, Chinese, and Americans wish, towards internal quarrels, limiting the EU's position - said Aleksander Kwaśniewski in an interview with Katarzyna Kolenda-Zaleska on TVN24's "Fakty po faktach".


20:26

Szydło:

I Hope We Still Reach an Understanding. Another Proposal Was Presented Today, Which ZNP and FZZ Do Not Accept, But I Hope There is Still Room for Discussion.

- I hope we still reach an understanding. As long as we sit at the table and there is a will to talk, and from the government's side, this will exists. Another proposal was presented today, which ZNP and FZZ do not accept, but I hope there is still room for discussion. Now, the most important thing is the exams. It is important that young people and children can take their exams in peace, and this was also my appeal to the trade unionists today, not to exploit young people and their future in this dispute – stated Beata Szydło in an interview with Michał Adamczyk on TVP Info's "Gość Wiadomości".


20:32

Szydło on New Social Contract: We Presented Two Options for Teaching Load Change - 22 or 24 Hours, but We're Also Open to Discussing Perhaps 23 Hours
We presented today a new social contract for teachers, assuming a salary increase for teachers over 4 years, but at the same time, we propose to start a discussion about changing the teaching load. We presented two options - 22 or 24 hours, but we are also open to discussing perhaps 23 hours. We are waiting here for proposals from the unions. Currently, the teaching load is 18 hours, so it is one of the lowest in OECD countries - stated Beata Szydło in an interview with Michał Adamczyk on TVP Info's "Gość Wiadomości".

20:44

Brudziński:

The Police, as always, succeeded. Falenta apprehended

The Minister of Interior and Administration informs on Twitter.

https://twitter.com/jbrudzinski/status/1114232890529914880


20:54

Szydło:

During Talks, I Sometimes Felt Broniarz Was More of a Politician Than a Trade Union Representative for Teachers

I sometimes had the impression during those talks that Mr. Broniarz was more of a politician than a representative of trade unions and, in reality, a representative of teachers. Such attempts at political statements or very emotional political engagement, and yet he is a person who has attended, for example, various strikes or events organized by KOD – stated Beata Szydło in a conversation with Michał Adamczyk on "Gość Wiadomości" TVP Info.


21:09

HEADLINE:

FAKTY: Strike Seems Certain, WYDARZENIA: Strike Increasingly Real, WIADOMOŚCI: European Coalition's Program Fits on One Board

-- REPORT FROM THE AMBER GOLD COMMISSION'S WORK TO BE COMPLETED BY THE END OF APRIL. WASSERMANN: SOME ADVISORS FAILED TO FULFILL THEIR DUTIES - we write on 300POLITYCE. https://300polityka.pl/news/2019/04/05/raport-z-prac-komisji-ds-amber-gold-powstanie-do-konca-kwietnia-wassermann-czesc-doradcow-nie-wywiazala-sie-ze-swojej-pracy/

-- 300POLITYKI LIVEBLOG:
Szydło: During the talks, I sometimes had the impression that Broniarz was more of a politician than a representative of trade unions and teachers.
Brudziński: The police, as always, managed. Falenta has been apprehended.
Szydło on the new social contract: We presented two options regarding changes to teaching hours – 22 or 24 hours, but we are also open to discussing perhaps 23 hours.
Kwaśniewski: I was elected president twice, I have trust in Polish voters. They know perfectly well that the European elections are about whether we want a common, further integrated Europe, or if we want to head towards internal quarrels.
Kwaśniewski: The Minister of Finance, this is probably the only case in the world who remains silent. I don't even know what her voice sounds like.
Szydło: I hope we will still reach an agreement. Today, another proposal was presented, which the ZNP and FZZ do not accept, but I hope there is still room for discussion.
Śmiszek: We are fresh energy. Out of 130 people running on the Spring lists, we only have a few politicians.
Grabiec: Experience is needed from both those who introduced Poland to the European Union as prime ministers, as well as experience from non-governmental organizations. We have such candidates on our lists.
Grabiec: Telling teachers during the last-chance talks that they have to work more and then perhaps they will deserve some raises in three or four years is unimaginable arrogance.
Dworczyk on negotiations with teachers' unions: We are ready to appear at any time. We are waiting for a signal from the National Labour Council (RDS).
Dworczyk: I ask the teachers to consider. If they want to continue the strike, fine, but outside of the days when exams are held.
Dworczyk on tomorrow's PiS convention: We will present another element of our campaign. We want to talk with farmers.
Prime Minister Morawiecki in a special clip: The economy and society go hand in hand, they are directly linked. We are following this path also in implementing our promises from the new 'five'.
Rafalska: I would like to debunk false, untrue information that the 13th pensions are to be financed entirely from the Labour Fund.
Mazurek: Everyone we said was running in the elections is running. The hate towards Zalewska is unwarranted.
Mazurek after the PiS Political Committee meeting: Today, the decision was made that only the Prime Minister will speak on the matter of reconstruction.
https://300polityka.pl/live/2019/04/05/

*****

POLSAT EVENTS

-- TEACHERS' STRIKE INCREASINGLY REAL - announcement: Today's negotiations with the government were interrupted. Last-chance talks on Sunday at 6 PM. The trade unions do not like the government's proposal.

-- ZNP AND FZZ CONSIDER THE GOVERNMENT'S PROPOSAL CONFRONTATIONAL - Agnieszka Milczarz.

-- SOLIDARITY IS ALSO CRITICAL, ALTHOUGH IT WAS CLOSE TO AN AGREEMENT WITH THE GOVERNMENT - Milczarz.

-- THE GOVERNMENT SURPRISED THE UNIONISTS - Milczarz.

-- UNIONISTS DESCRIBE THE ATMOSPHERE OF THE TALKS AS POURING OIL ON THE FIRE - Milczarz.

-- THEY ONLY SAW THE GOVERNMENT'S PROPOSALS PRESENTED AT A PRESS CONFERENCE - Milczarz.

-- PO FILED A MOTION TO DISMISS ZALEWSKA - Milczarz.

-- CORRUPTION CHARGES FOR STEFAN NIESIOŁOWSKI - announcement: Niesiołowski pleads not guilty, faces up to 10 years in prison.

-- NIESIOŁOWSKI REFUSED TO TESTIFY. HE DID NOT ANSWER QUESTIONS FROM INVESTIGATORS AND JOURNALISTS - Grzegorz Kępka.

-- HE PREVIOUSLY WAIVED HIS IMMUNITY HIMSELF. HE CLAIMS HE IS INNOCENT - Kępka.

*****

TVN FAKTY

-- THERE ARE ALMOST NO CHANCES FOR AN AGREEMENT, THE TEACHERS' STRIKE SEEMS CERTAIN - announcement.

-- AFTER TODAY'S TALKS, IT IS EVEN WORSE, NONE OF THE UNIONS ACCEPT THE GOVERNMENT'S OFFER - Justyna Pochanke.

-- THE GOVERNMENT DID NOT GIVE EVEN ONE MORE GROSS - THIS IS THE COMMENT FROM UNIONISTS, IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE TALKS ENDED - Maciej Knapik.

-- UNLESS SOME MORE NEGOTIATIONS TAKE PLACE, WHICH IS OF COURSE NOT EXCLUDED - Knapik continues.

-- WHAT THE GOVERNMENT PROPOSED TODAY, DESPITE HAVING A NICE NAME, CAUSED OUTRAGE, EVEN AMONG THE MOST GOVERNMENT-FRIENDLY SOLIDARITY - Knapik.

-- ZNP STATES OFFICIALLY: THE STRIKE WILL BEGIN ON MONDAY - Knapik continues.

-- STEFAN N. ACCUSED, DEFENDED BY RYSZARD KALISZ.

-- THOSE WHO WERE MEANT TO BE FRIGHTENED HAVE BEEN FRIGHTENED, THOSE WHO WERE MEANT TO BEHAVE BADLY HAVE BEHAVED BADLY - STRONG WORDS FROM A JUDGE, BUT JUDGE TULEYA KNOWS WHAT HE IS TALKING ABOUT, COMMENTING ON THE DISCIPLINARY CHAMBER'S ACTIONS - announcement.

-- HE DID NOT STEAL ANYTHING, NEITHER TROUSERS NOR A DRILL, YET A POLITICAL WHIP FALLS ON HIM CONSTANTLY - Pochanke.

-- MATERIAL BASED ON A CONVERSATION WITH IGOR TULEYA FOR FPF.

*****

TVP WIADOMOŚCI

-- TWO OUT OF THREE TRADE UNION CENTERS ARE PREPARING FOR PROTEST, DESPITE ANNOUNCEMENTS OF A 10 PERCENT RAISE ALREADY IN SEPTEMBER - announcement: Today's government proposal, assuming a final salary of up to 8100 PLN per month provided for more lessons, also did not change the unionists' plans.

-- DESPITE 5 DAYS OF NEGOTIATIONS, TRADE UNIONS REJECTED THE GOVERNMENT'S PROPOSAL - Bartłomiej Graczak.

-- SOLIDARITY WILL NOT STRIKE DURING EXAMS, THE PROTEST AT THE MALOPOLSKA CURATORIUM HAS ENDED - Graczak.

-- ZNP STRUCTURES ARE MOBILIZING FOR THE STRIKE - Graczak.

-- NEGOTIATIONS ARE STALLED - Graczak.

-- EXCELLENT FINANCIAL RESULT FOR THE MOŻEJKI REFINERY BELONGING TO PKN ORLEN. TWO BILLION ZLOTY PROFIT IN THE LAST THREE YEARS - announcement: The originator of the Možejki purchase – President Lech Kaczyński – was commemorated by the Prime Ministers of Poland and Lithuania.

-- THERE WAS SUPPOSED TO BE A PROGRAM FOR THE EUROPEAN COALITION, 10 POINTS WERE CREATED, INCLUDING DEMANDS SUCH AS: A STRONG POLAND IN A STRONG EUROPE, HAPPY YOUTH IN EUROPE, OR CHEAP ELECTRICITY FOR ALL. - announcement: United Right politicians are asking why it took so long to wait for such slogans, but most importantly, why they were not implemented during the PO-PSL governments.

-- THE EUROPEAN COALITION'S PROGRAM HAS ALREADY MET WITH CRITICISM AND JOKES FROM POLITICAL OPPONENTS - Maksymilian Maszenda.

-- THE COALITION'S PROGRAM FITS ON ONE BOARD - Maszenda.

-- EVEN THE LEADERS OF THE EUROPEAN COALITION ADMIT THAT APART FROM THE DESIRE TO REMOVE PIS FROM POWER, VIRTUALLY EVERYTHING ELSE DIVIDES THEM - Maszenda.

-- PIS PRESENTED ITS DEMANDS A MONTH AGO, BEFORE THE ELECTIONS - Maszenda.

-- JUDGE WOJCIECH ŁĄCZEWSKI'S IMMUNITY WILL NOT BE REVOKED - announcement: This was decided by the Krakow disciplinary court. This means that the prosecution will not be able to press charges against the judge or file an indictment with the court.

-- STEFAN NIESIOŁOWSKI HAS BEEN CHARGED.

-- CIVIC PLATFORM ANNOUNCES THE LIQUIDATION OF POLISH TELEVISION. SUCH A PLAN WAS DEVELOPED IN THE PARTY IN CASE PO WINS THE AUTUMN PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS - announcement: However, work is already underway on what could replace the current TVP.

-- PO POLITICIANS HAVE BEEN TALKING ABOUT PURGES AT TVP FOR SEVERAL WEEKS - Dominik Cierpioł.

-- THIS CONCERNS JOURNALISTS WHO WILL NOT ASK AWKWARD QUESTIONS TO PO POLITICIANS - Cierpioł.

-- ACCORDING TO PIS POLITICIANS, PO WANTS TO LIQUIDATE TVP BECAUSE PLURALISM IN THE MEDIA MARKET HINDERS THEM - Cierpioł.