Million prizes in the Marshal's Office – how much, to whom and for what?

In the Świętokrzyskie Marshal's Office, prizes and allowances were awarded to millions of zlotys. The whole sparked huge emotions and a stormy public debate.

How big were the awards? Record totals

Within a mere 14 months officials from Świętokrzyski received over 14 million gold prizes and allowances. Recorders among high-ranking employees could count on amounts exceeding 75 thousand PLN, and the secretary of the voivodship gained almost 120 thousand PLN as various additions and awards. In comparison, about 30 people received an annual "premia" of over PLN 30 thousand, and more than 70 people received between PLN 20 and PLN 30 thousand.

Why have such awards been awarded?

According to the authorities, the high prizes were "Summary of multi-annual employee involvement". The Ombudsman pointed out that 2023 was exceptional – part of the appropriations came from the implementation of EU projects and was linked to the completion of important EU funding programmes. Special allowances were granted for "periodic increase in duties" and additional tasks.

Social controversy

Opponents of decision do not hide disappointment. Social activists and some councillors speak directly about "The Marshal's Byzantine". According to them, the justifications for the awards were very laconic – it is difficult to clearly indicate what concrete achievements and merits were awarded. The harsh words were also heard in the seymical forum, where they were emphasized "the limit of greed" and demand greater transparency in spending public money.

Similar waves of awards also went through other offices and ministries, but in the Świętokrzyskie Marshal's Office it was the sum and number of people awarded that aroused emotions. In the course of the year, almost every of about 880 employees received a bonus – only 18 people received none.