Final Word from Tuesday, November 22, 2005
KDU-ČSL Chair Miroslav Kalousek said on TV Nova's "7" debate show that surely no one can doubt the CR needs a highway-toll system. Well, actually, Mr. Chairman.... Given the choice between a Kč 22bn invoice for a system that will apparently be in operation for only a few years and finding a simpler solution for raising highway money, many people would opt for simplicity. Especially when at least 15% of the Kč 22bn cost is expected to go missing. The CR has 9% unemployment and could put a lot of extra highway-stamp inspectors to work for Kč 22bn if, as one possibility, the CR decided to go that route instead. But KDU needs to clinch this final deal before the elections. Interesting that both ČSSD and the Communists are starting to make noise about it. The e-toll system will go through, but KDU-ČSL will first have to pay the price for being such a nuisance to ČSSD and the Communists over the past few months. [Czech Republic electronic toll Kapsch KSČM]