“Latvia RB Rail {C}{C}the joint venture has not received funding at the moment, we pay our employees’ salaries from Lithuanian, Estonian and European funding. and it’s really tough becuase if we don’t get the funding this year, we’re going to have to start laying off employees. But actually everyone RB Rail employees work in all three Baltic countries. We have foreign experts who we should fire from January, but then Estonia and Lithuania will also suffer.” When asked what Kitty Gruškevica can change while in her position, she comments: “Actually, it seems incomprehensible to me, because it is an agreement concluded between three countries, which we knew nth years ahead – how much Latvia will have to account for this funding.I have written the n-th letter to the Ministry of Transport with a request to take into account the warning…”
Andris Kulbergs is outraged by what he heard, who adds to what the guest of the programme said: “It is indeed criminal! We will start reviewing the budget, but, being aware of this hole, our obligations, but we must not create a budget without covering these things! But we pretend that they do not exist, do not exist …”
Roberts Zīle also admits that he did not know such a fact and does not hide his surprise: “Well, it is… how can you talk about Rail Baltica and look your colleagues in the eye if you can’t keep your promise? I don’t know, to be honest… If we are so far…If we save?… oh, incidentally, it’s interesting, it’s good news for Latvia. Starting to look at next year’s budget, the french, Belgians, Dutch, Estonians – everyone has problems! Only Latvians don’t have it!”
At the end of this discussion, Kitty Grushkevica said: “If I had to defend the government, then I would say that problably the scenario that the Prime Minister is currently promoting is: from the beginning, we make a decision on the first round and then start solving the other issues. Such as, on funding for both joint venture and national activities I allow…”
What are the main factors contributing to the Rail Baltica funding crisis?
Interview with Kitty gruškevica: Insights into the Rail Baltica Funding Crisis
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Kitty Gruškevica, to discuss the current predicament surrounding the Rail Baltica project. It’s a topic that’s drawing significant attention across the Baltic states. Could you summarize the current funding challenges facing RB Rail?
Kitty Gruškevica: thank you for having me. The situation is indeed pressing. Currently, RB Rail has not received the necessary funding, which is impacting our operational capabilities.We are relying on Lithuanian, Estonian, and European funding to pay our employee salaries. though, without additional support this year, we may face tough decisions, including potential layoffs.
Time.news Editor: ThatS a concerning prospect. You mentioned the complexities of funding agreements between the three Baltic countries. Can you elaborate on what has been communicated to the Ministry of Transport regarding this issue?
Kitty Gruškevica: it’s somewhat frustrating because we’ve been aware of this funding need for years. I’ve sent multiple letters to the Ministry of Transport highlighting these concerns. The agreement between the countries was established, and it’s incomprehensible to see it not being upheld. There should be a clear plan to prevent any negative impact on employment and project progress.
Time.news Editor: Andris Kulbergs expressed outrage over this situation, suggesting it is almost criminal.What are your thoughts on the government’s responsibility in addressing these funding gaps?
Kitty Gruškevica: I entirely understand the frustration.There’s a responsibility to review the budget without ignoring the obvious holes. we cannot pretend these issues do not exist, as it undermines the foundation of our commitments to the project and ultimately affects all three countries involved in Rail Baltica.
Time.news Editor: Roberts Zīle shared his surprise at these developments, highlighting the need for accountability. How do you foresee the collaboration between the Baltic states evolving considering these funding challenges?
Kitty Gruškevica: Collaboration is essential, especially in a multi-national project like Rail Baltica. If we can come together and address these funding issues transparently, we can hopefully regain momentum.The Prime Minister’s current strategy appears to focus on solving primary issues before tackling others, which could be a viable way forward.
Time.news Editor: As we look ahead, what practical advice woudl you give to stakeholders and employees who are worried about the future of Rail Baltica?
Kitty Gruškevica: Communication and openness are critical. Stakeholders should stay informed about funding discussions and advocate for the necessary support.Employees should remain engaged and aware that their work is vital to the project’s success. It’s important to stay resilient and collective in addressing these shared challenges.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Kitty, for your insights into this pressing issue. It’s critical for our readers to understand the implications of these funding challenges on the rail Baltica project and the wider regional economy. We appreciate your time and hope the situation improves soon.
Kitty Gruškevica: Thank you for the prospect to discuss this important topic. I share your hope for a swift resolution that benefits all involved.