"We will discuss the budget in the framework of very clear-cut principal provisions, which are that Lithuania should continue with its highly responsible financial policies. And responsible financial policies require that expenditure were in balance with revenues. We cannot afford living beyond our means and the lesson learned during the crisis is the most efficient, in this case," Kubilius told journalists at the government on Monday in comment of the possibility of higher wages for police officers.
He noted Lithuania's plans to finish 2012 with a 3 billion litas (EUR 870,000,000) budget deficit, with projected budget gap of 2.5 billion litas for 2013.
"In this respect, any proposals to raise spending should not run counter to the general strategic policies – living within our means," the head of the government emphasized.
Meanwhile Interior Minister Melianas, stated that the demands were fair.
"The demands made by officers are indeed fair, they should be addressed – it is not good to have an officer doing a really responsible job being paid a salary of 1,300 litas, it is difficult to demand any motivation," the minister added.
Trade unions of officers held protest actions outside Vilnius offices of major political parties on Monday, demanding attention to the appalling financial and psychological situation in the law-enforcement sector.
Roma Katinienė, chairwoman of the Lithuanian Police Trade Union, says financing for the sector dropped by a fourth over the past four years, more than 2,000 people left including more than 1,400 statutory officers.
During a rally in June, officers demanded conditions for dignified and safe service, wage increase by at least 30 percent, a 40-hour work week, pay for overtime, compensation of unpaid salaries, punishment of individuals persecuting honest officers, and measures to keep experienced officers to remain in service.
