Zagreb - The Parliamentary Committee on Regional Development and European Union Funds on Monday supported Šime Erlić as the new Minister of Regional Development and EU Funds with seven votes in favour for, while Sanja Radolović of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) was only one against his appointment.
I am motivated, this is a big challenge for me and I will give my best, said Erlić during the two-hour session of the Committee, where he answered questions from MPs.
"I am aware of the complexity and exposure in that ministry, I have gone through all the fund phases at the local level and I am aware how demanding the task is, I will try to give my best, my ideas, knowledge and experience, protect my team of people as much as possible and let them work for the benefit of all Croatian citizens, amidst the best possible use of EU funds", Erlić replied to Sabina Glasovac (SDP), who asked him if he could deal with the pressures she claims there will be.
Glasovac was also interested to know if Erlić would choose associates who are ready to do business on the edge and perhaps against the law, referring to the case of a Zadar city councilwoman.
"I will cooperate with all supervisory bodies in the segment of spending EU funds and I will be at the disposal of all bodies that are important for controlling the spending of European funds, as well as those that file lawsuits and work on the processes of detecting criminal acts," Erlić replied, stressing that he has no tolerance to corruption.
During the hearing, Erlić emphasised, among other things, that he will work on simplifying procedures, strengthening human potential, developing all parts of Croatia, directing funds to less developed regions, Lika, Slavonia, the Dalmatian hinterland. the quake-affected Sisak-Moslavina County.