There is broad agreement across the political spectrum, including with the opposition, regarding the majority of planned changes to the Rules of Procedure, according to House Vice-chair Peter Žiga, who is temporarily heading Parliament. In an interview with TASR, Žiga outlined some of the proposed changes.
Under the new rules, for example, amending proposals may no longer be read aloud in the Chamber, as they can now be submitted electronically. Žiga also suggested the possibility of shorter speaking times for members, the introduction of fines for the use of profanities, and a stricter dress code banning T-shirts with inscriptions in the Chamber.
However, the opposition insists that the new Rules of Procedure should be adopted with broad consensus across the political spectrum. Progresívne Slovensko (PS) leader Michal Šimečka stressed the importance of consensus, pointing out that the first taboo was already broken with the removal of opposition nominees from parliamentary positions.
This sentiment was echoed by SaS leader Branislav Gröhling, who also hopes for a consensus. At a session of the working group, SaS presented its own draft, which included stricter rules for the use of fast-track procedures and the option to attach comments to MP proposals.
The Christian Democrats (KDH) have their own proposals. KDH chair Milan Majerský announced that they want parliamentary caucuses to be allowed to submit amending proposals as well. Meanwhile, Michal Šipoš, chair of the 'Slovakia'-For the People-KU coalition caucus, suggested that drug and alcohol testing should be introduced in Parliament, noting that alcohol abuse has been a particularly prevalent problem among Slovak lawmakers.
It remains unclear whether the new Rules of Procedure will be drafted and submitted in time for the February House session.
Source: TASR
