A.J.Vadasz wrote:
>
> This had been an active subject for HL (etc.), but little reported of late.
> On Dec.13 Hungarian radio reported as follows.
>
> The Slovak “language law” had been a sorepoint in relations between the
> Slovakand Hungarian governments. Whenever there were protests (violates
> agreements, etc.) the standard Slovak answer has been: “working on a
> minority language law, which will give recognized minorities analogous
> rights.” Unfortunately, nothing has happened, as the Slovak parliament keeps
> tabling any action. In the meantime, while the original law had been
> effective Jan 1 1996, penalties for violation were suspended for the balance
> of 1996.(That’s why the subjecthad been quiet of late.)
>
> Recently however employers, restaurant owners (where people gather) in
> Hungarian – inhabited areas have been receiving government warnings that as
> of Jan 1 1997, penalties will apply. The Hungarian government sent a protest
> note via the Slovak ambassador in Budapest, in which they urge prompt
> passage of the minority language law.
>
> Some comments. To me specific language “permissions” seem a backhanded way
> to achieve freedom of speech (guaranteed even in the Slovak constitution).
> What if someone uses yet another language (not specifically recognized on
> the Slovak books). There are hundreds in the world…
>
> Aside from that I don’t see how any legislature can move effectively in the
> remaining few days of 1996- considering the holidays, etc.
>
> Anyone to corroborate the above (or deny it.) Suggestions on what to do ?

Unfortunately I did not retain the source, but I read that the Meciar
government(or governing coalitions’ parties) decided already that there
is no need for any new legislation guaranteeing the minorities’ language
use .It is also my understanding that President Kovac thinks
otherwise…but I cannot give You any corroborating information or
reliable source on these .

Regards, Peter Kovalszki