Even with this government’s self-proclaimed program of "small steps" (to borrow from the catch-phrase that Secretary of State Micha³ Boni likes to use), we were all beginning to wonder when we might see some real reforms. Lo and behold, the reported two-week limitation on ministerial summer vacations seems to have prompted some action.
Minister of Justice Zbigniew Æwi±kalski appears to be particularly active and not afraid to jump into the fray. Although one of his thornier problems is probably only of interest to lawyers and law students, he’s announced a new reform plan for the legal qualifications process. Whether the plan has merits or not, one thing is sure: this issue has been debated ad nauseam. Although I usually eschew unnecessary use of Latin phrases, this turn of phrase best suits my sentiments.
On fronts of more general interest, Minister Æwi±kalski has also mentioned a couple white-collar crime procedural reforms. On one hand, he’s addressed the blatant over-use of the provisional arrest provisions. On the other, he’s talking about toughing up measures on those who violate capital markets rules.
Not to be outdone, the various administrative authorities looking into building permit procedures and the “big box” construction limitations have also not been sleeping. But as this is Paul’s favorite subject, I’ll let him expound.
Judi
