Bulgaria — FrontPages.eu

Ministry proposes amnesty for illegal highways and reservoirs

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The Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works is proposing legal changes to grant amnesty for existing illegal structures, including highways, reservoirs, and gas pipelines. This move comes as Varna has reportedly issued over 230 permits for 'tolerance' of illegal construction without proper urban development plans over the past three years, a situation described as 'illegal construction on an epidemic scale'.

In other domestic news, opposition groups are calling to keep 'hands off the Dossier Commission', indicating ongoing scrutiny of state security archives. There are also reports of prosecutorial checks against 12 candidates for the Supreme Judicial Council.

Economically, the National Revenue Agency reports a 9% increase in company revenues across Bulgaria, reaching 348 billion euros. However, the 'Lemprier Wool' company is closing its production facility in Sliven, resulting in job losses. Additionally, ships are reportedly refusing to load grain from Bulgarian ports.

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Illegal Construction and Proposed Amnesty

The Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works is seeking an amnesty for various illegal structures, including highways and reservoirs, a proposal that has drawn public criticism. This follows revelations that over 230 'tolerance' permits for illegal construction have been issued in Varna over three years without detailed urban plans, suggesting widespread issues with regulatory oversight.

Opposition to Dossier Commission and Judicial Council Checks

Opposition groups are urging to protect the Dossier Commission, indicating ongoing tensions surrounding state security archives. Separately, 12 candidates for the Supreme Judicial Council are facing signals and prosecutorial checks.

Economic Developments and Challenges

The National Revenue Agency reports a 9% increase in company revenues across Bulgaria, reaching a total of 348 billion euros. However, the 'Lemprier Wool' company is closing its production facility in Sliven, leading to job losses. Additionally, vessels are refusing to load grain from Bulgarian ports, posing a challenge for exports.

Road Accident and Urban Improvements

A fatal collision between a bus and a truck occurred on the Pazardzhik-Plovdiv road. In Sofia, the first 20-meter-long buses have arrived, and the municipality plans to replace polluting stoves in over 10,000 households.

Young Doctors' Frustration and Heating Season Outlook

Young doctors have expressed frustration over a year and a half of inaction regarding their concerns. Separately, Prof. Rachev predicts that conditions for the start of the heating season will not be met until late October.