70 organizations across the country have signed against a 20% reduction in food expenditures of those public institutions of social assistance.

Foundation "Pentru Voi", The Institute for Public Policies and the Civil Society Development Foundation have released an open letter regarding the GO no. 55/23.06.2010 on the consequences of reducing 20% of food expenditures of those public social institutions, asking Prime Minister Emil Boc to amend art.III paragraph (2) of the Ordinance 55/2010, and to add to the paragraphs (a) exceptions the food expenses of those public institutions of social assistance and special education units.

Under Article III, paragraph (2) of GO no. 55/23.06.2010 regarding some measures to reduce public spending "are excepted from the provisions of par. (1) expenses for pensions and other forms of social assistance, and for payment of medical services, medicines, medical devices and medical equipment, repairs and rehabilitation of schools, and food for persons deprived of their liberty".

The article quoted makes an exception to reduce by 20% only for "food for persons deprived of their liberty", discriminating other categories assisted as people with disabilities - especially those with intellectual disabilities - which is known as a particularly vulnerable group, children from the protection system, elderly who receive social services financed by the state budget.

The 20% reduction costs for goods and services - added to the reduction of budgetary allocations made earlier this year by adopting GD 23/2010 on standards for cost, is threatening the fundamental right to nutrition and health, and even life of persons with disabilities in institutions.

Regards,

Laila Onu, CEO
Foundation „Pentru Voi”                                           

Violeta Alexandru, Director
The Institute for Public Policies

Ionut Sibian, Executive Director
Civil Society Development Foundation