Poland’s Interior Ministry is challenging President Duda’s veto of a funding package, which has reduced resources for security services by 7 billion złoty.
Ministerial Criticism of Presidential Veto
Interior Minister Marcin Kierwiński stated that the presidential veto has deprived services under the Ministry’s jurisdiction of 7 billion złoty in previously unavailable funds.
He affirmed that all projects will be realized for the benefit of Polish security.
Circumventing the Veto and Accelerating Procurement
Kierwiński indicated the need to “bypass” the veto and expedite purchases, deliberately using the word “bypass” in reference to the President’s decision.
Impact on Polish Security
The Minister argued that the veto “harms Polish security” by depriving Polish services of funds that were previously accessible.
SAFE Program: 42 Projects for Security Services
The SAFE program encompasses 42 projects for services under the MSWiA, with the 7 billion złoty intended to strengthen these services.
Projects include investments in anti-drone systems, Baltic Sea border defense, securing the Polish-Belarusian and Polish-Russian borders, and, in the future, the Polish-Ukrainian border, as well as personal equipment for personnel.
Alternative Funding Mechanisms
Despite the veto, the government intends to utilize the funds within the SAFE program through other mechanisms, though finding a suitable tool will be challenging.
Kierwiński assured that a mechanism will be found to utilize the funds.
