The Government’s intention is to prevent cases similar to the tragedy that happened at the “West Balkán” club in January, declared András Tállai, the State Secretary for the Local Governments Matters, at the press conference held on Friday together with the Government’s Spokeswomen Anna Nagy on introducing details from the Government’s Decree on “A safer operation of public places, clubs, and discos.”

Anna Nagy said that the tragedy in January and the follow-on inspections during which near 850 clubs were inspected turned our attention to several shortcomings; therefore the state had to interfere. The new regulations are undoubtedly restrictions, however they are not against someone, on the contrary they will serve the safe entertainment and recreation possibilities for youth. – said the Government’s Spokeswomen.

András Tállai emphasised that the new Government’s Decree establishes legal provisions for the regulation of programme-management, of the supervision of that activity, and of sanctioning. The Government’s Decree is in force from the 16th of March 2011, and those clubs that already have permit for operation, will have period of grace of 91 days for preparation in order to meet the requirements.

The new Government’s Decree can be applied in case of an indoor event with capacity of 300 people, or an outdoor event for more than one thousand people. For that kind of events it will be obligatory to procure the permit issued by special authorities. Moreover, an approved security plan will be also mandatory. The circle of inspections extends as well, since the notary may check the place once a year, the authorities may carry out inspections twice a year, even during the event itself, and in case of serious offence the inspectors will be authorised to suspend the event.

When constituting the Decree, The Ministry of Interior consulted with several professional organisations, such as the Hungarian Association of Programme Managers and Services, the Association of DJs, and the Association of Hungarian Disc Jockeys, - the State Secretary added.

(kormany.hu)