Citizen compensation, minister Gjonaj integration committee hearing

Citizen compensation, minister Gjonaj integration committee hearing

Albania's issues at the European Court of Human Rights were one of the main concerns expressed by opposition MPs at a hearing session with Justice Minister, Etilda Gjonaj.

 The Minister did answer questions also about the financial impact the country is facing, stating that until there is a decision reached by the court, the cost cannot be calculated.

 However, the fact remains that, currently the amount accrued from all current issues equals 822 million Euros.

 "The costs will accrue for as long as we are in front of the European court. We have no evaluation from the European Court.

 "Every individual has the right to ask as much as he thinks necessary, but this does not man we can translate a response into the real costs of the court's decision," said Etilda Gjonaj.

 The Minister went on to speak about the progress of Judicial Reform, stating:

 "The ministry is holding meetings with interest groups to improve drafts. 2 months after the establishment of the High Council Prosecutor's Office, the SSACC will be established."

 On the issue of property, Gjonaj said that the Agency has reviewed 10 thousand files in the last 5 years, even though the property law has been suspended by the Constitutional Court.

 "The law has been suspended and the agency has not made any decisions. 26,000 decisions for compensation, from these 10 thousand cases over the last 5 years are still needed," declared the Minister.

 At the hearing session of the Integration Commission, regarding the country's priorities to join the EU, Minister Gjonaj refused to discuss the case of Nezar Seiti .

 She reminded opposition MPs that the written responses she has provided them are confidential and must not be released for publication by the media. 

 Regarding candidates for the HJC and HCPO, Gjonaj said that this is a responsibility assigned to the Assembly and that the Justice Ministry cannot interfere.

EMISIONET