Slovak govt plans 2,000 new hires, wage hikes despite fiscal consolidation pledge

Slovakia's Fico government plans to add 2,000 public-sector jobs and raise existing salaries next year, contradicting its stated consolidation goals. Budget council member Martin Šuster warns that the entire consolidation volume is consumed by debt interest and defense spending, leaving the deficit unaddressed. This signals a deviation from fiscal discipline and may pressure Slovakia's fiscal credibility.