Prepared by Messenger Staff
Georgian Dream Proposes Amendments to Civil Service Law
On December 9, Mamuka Mdinaradze, executive secretary of the Georgian Dream party and parliamentary majority leader, announced plans to amend the Law on Civil Service to streamline public sector reorganizations. Mdinaradze described the initiative as a measure to "ensure the health of the public sector."
"There will be an amendment to the Law of Georgia on Public Service, which will simplify the issues of reorganization in the public sector. This solution ensures the health of the public sector," Mdinaradze stated.
The announcement follows a wave of dissent from civil servants opposing Georgian Dream's controversial decision to halt the country's European Union membership bid. The proposed changes have raised concerns among critics, who fear the amendments could be used to remove dissenting voices within the public sector under the guise of reorganization.
Proposed Amendments to Police Law Allow Minister to Bypass Recruitment Competition
The Georgian Parliament is reviewing proposed amendments to the Law "On Police," granting the Minister of Internal Affairs authority to hire personnel without a competitive process and independently establish rules and conditions for such recruitment.
Currently, the law mandates that police employment is contingent upon passing a special competition. The proposed changes, however, introduce an exception, stating that while competition will remain the standard procedure, the minister can authorize appointments without it through specific regulations.
If adopted, the amendments would take effect on January 1, 2025.
Parliament to Discuss Tightened Controls on Pyrotechnics Use and Sale
The Georgian Parliament will discuss a bill this week introducing strict regulations on the import, export, production, and sale of pyrotechnic products. According to a press release, these activities will require a permit or license under the proposed law.
The bill, which includes amendments to the Code of Administrative Offenses, is being fast-tracked for consideration. It sets fines and penalties for violations, such as unauthorized sales, improper use, and non-compliance with licensing conditions.
Under the proposed legislation, engaging in import, export, production, or sale without a permit will result in a 5,000 GEL fine and confiscation of items, with repeat offenses incurring a 6,000 GEL fine and confiscation without compensation. Breaching licensing conditions will lead to a 2,000 GEL fine, while selling pyrotechnics to unauthorized individuals will result in a 2,000 GEL fine.
