Lukashenko describes loss of cattle problem as aptitude test for civil servants

MINSK, 30 April (BelTA) – During a government conference held in Minsk on 30 April Belarus President Aleksandr Lukashenko drew attention to the fact that the loss of cattle is unacceptable and described the resolution of the problem as an aptitude test for civil servants, BelTA has learned.

“It is an iron year of testing your aptitude for the job. God forbid you do not resolve the issue of livestock mortality,” Aleksandr Lukashenko cautioned civil servants during the government conference held to discuss the implementation of investment projects within the framework of the One District – One Project initiative.

Speaking about the unacceptability of the loss of cattle, the head of state referred to the outrageous example he had encountered during a recent working trip to Gomel Oblast. The head of an agricultural enterprise in Rogachev District tried to hide multiple losses of young cattle. Nevertheless, the facts were unearthed by the State Control Committee during audits and the papers were forwarded to the president. Later on these photos were published by mass media.

“Some photos have been published by reporters. You saw what is going on. And you realized that I’ve raised the issue not because I’ve gone crazy. Why does he keep talking about the loss of cattle all the time? Have you seen what is going on?” Aleksandr Lukashenko drew attention to the published materials. “And even then we take mercy on people. We don’t publish everything. If we did and if people started scrolling, they would be horrified.”

The issue of the loss of cattle was raised as part of the discussion about the construction of calf nurseries. The head of state called it an important step but stressed that proper care is as important. “My dears, the creation of calf nurseries is a major step in the preservation of young cattle. But it is half of the solution to the problem. Veterinary science and the rest have to follow,” the president added.