Ministries to have more control over EU funds

Of almost EUR 70 billion designated for projects in Poland over 2007-2013, over half will be spent on projects included on lists, concerning large investments, prepared by the relevant ministries. Large investments are deemed those whose value exceeds EUR 50 million, though if they concern the environment the threshold is lowered to EUR 25 million.Moreover, the lists will also encompass smaller projects with key importance for the economy. "In our opinion this is a logical solution. The program will, among other things, finance construction of roads and highways. What is the purpose of organizing contests for the construction of highways?," said Jerzy Kwiecinski, deputy minister for regional development. The major advantage of the new solution is ability to launch new projects much faster. (Rzeczpospolita, p. B2) M.M.