The Social Democratic Party’s (LSDP) representatives in the Lithuanian parliament are launching an interpellation procedure against Energy Minister Dainius Kreivys over what they say is a mishandled electricity supply reform and failure to respond to the surge in energy prices.
The group says the minister will be asked to provide answers regarding “negligent attitude towards the so-called independent electricity suppliers” and the significant damage to the state, caused by the unilateral suspension of operation by Perlas Energija, an electricity company.
This summer, a significant number of households had to pick an independent energy supply company, as the government implemented phase two of the electricity market liberalisation reform. In early August, Perlas Energija, the second most popular supplier, announced it was unilaterally changing its contracts with clients, as the company could not supply electricity at the agreed prices.
The step caused outrage and the company subsequently said it was stopping operations due to financial difficulties.
Social Democratic MPs argued Energy Minister Kreivys “criminally delayed and failed to model possible consequences” of the reform and failed to present alternatives as early as last summer when the energy price spike began, according to the group’s statement.
The Social Democrats accuse the energy minister of “demonstratively failing to prepare for the heating season and to defend Lithuania’s interests at the European Union level when the rules for electricity and biofuel exchanges were reviewed”.
Social Democrat leader Vilija Blinkeviciute says she is certain the interpellation initiative will be backed by other opposition political groups in the parliament, Seimas.
“Whichever area the minister is in charge of you look at, it’s in shambles. Kreivys has been doing nothing but saying “nothing can be done” since he started his job. This constitutes evading one’s responsibility,” Blinkeviciute was quoted in the group’s statement.
Interpellating a minister requires at least 29 members of parliament. The Social Democrats have 12 MPs in Lithuania’s 141-seat Seimas.
Under the procedure, the minister will have to answer the MPs questions, followed by a vote of confidence. (LRT/Business World Magazine)