Employees of the Slovak Arts Council (FPU) have found a listening device in one of the fund’s offices. The case is being investigated by law enforcement authorities, which are currently examining a possible violation of the confidentiality of private communication.
According to FPU, the device and recordings were handed over to police. The Bratislava Regional Prosecutor’s Office confirmed that the case is still at the stage before the start of criminal prosecution. Police are investigating a suspected offence related to the unauthorised recording of private conversations.
The employees reportedly suspect that the device could have been installed by acting FPU director František Kornaj, as he allegedly had access to the relevant rooms. Kornaj rejected the accusations, saying that FPU had never monitored its employees and that the institution learned about the alleged surveillance only through the media. He said conclusions about who installed the device and how it was used would be premature until the investigation is completed.
Culture Minister Martina Šimkovičová (SNS nominee) also rejected any connection with the case. She said she would address the situation once it becomes clear what happened and who was responsible.
Opposition parties have called the case a serious scandal. The Slovensko Movement is demanding an extraordinary parliamentary committee meeting, while party PS called for an independent investigation and criticised the situation as evidence of deeper problems within the culture sector. The Ministry of Culture said that resolving the allegations falls under the responsibility of law enforcement authorities and the internal procedures of the fund.
Source: TASR, STVR
