CROATIAN EMPLOYERS SUPPORT NEW GOVERNMENT'S FIRST STEPS

ZAGREB, Feb 16 (Hina) - The Croatian Employers' Association (HUP) fully supports the first steps of Premier Ivica Racan's government, HUP presidency chairman Branko Roglic told reporters in Zagreb on Wednesday, adding the government's programme was consistent with promises made at recent parliamentary elections. The government's first steps are very good, Roglic said, singling out the opening of some criminal cases which stood locked too long, and announcements that money-losing companies would not be rehabilitated. Roglic assessed the situation with money-losing companies was "more rough" than the government expected, and said there was no point in rehabilitating them. They should undergo bankruptcy proceedings, while their employees should be directed to profitable businesses. Speaking about announcements of a social pact, Roglic reminded the HUP on several occasions discussed the need for consensus among social partners in view of finding solutions to economic and social issues. All three partners, namely the government, employers, and the unions, should agree to work together in resolving all other issues as well, especially a clear development strategy, Roglic said. "The government should come out with a clear development strategy as soon as possible," he stressed. (hina) ha mm