Croatian PM addresses train crash, veteran pension increases

Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković used his attendance at the 29th Marathon of the Lađa boats in the Neretva Valley to address pressing national issues. While meeting with local officials and representatives of the Neretva Boatmen Association, Plenković fielded questions from journalists on topics including a serious train collision and planned adjustments to veteran pensions.

“

I am sorry that this happened. We have been in contact all morning, including Minister Butković, Minister Božinović, Minister Medved, Minister Hrstić, and myself. All services, from the police to HŽ Infrastruktura, HŽ Putnički prijevoz, and HŽ Cargo, are all involved.

Regarding the train accident that occurred between the Sveti Ivan Žabno and Gradec stations, where a passenger train collided with a freight train, Plenković stated he had been in constant contact with relevant ministers and services throughout the morning. Six people were seriously injured and 13 sustained minor injuries in the crash, with no fatalities reported. The Prime Minister refrained from speculating on the cause, emphasizing that the official investigation would reveal the reasons. He highlighted the immediate priority was ensuring the injured received timely and high-quality medical care.

“

The important thing is that the seriously injured passengers and the driver of the passenger train received the most urgent care. They have been hospitalized in Zagreb. We hope that those who are more seriously injured will receive top-quality healthcare and that everything will end with this.

Turning to the issue of veteran pensions, Plenković clarified that the announced changes were not about introducing new rights but rather about rectifying reductions made under previous governments. He reiterated his government's commitment to addressing the "gaps, imperfections, and reductions" in benefits for Croatian veterans as the country's economic situation improves. Plenković noted that previous adjustments were made in 2017 and 2022, with the final phase of these corrections planned for the 2027 budget. He underscored the significance of the Homeland War to the foundation of modern Croatia and expressed a desire to resolve veteran-related issues comprehensively.

“

This is not about some new increase, but about returning things to the situation they should have been in. We are correcting yet another injustice.