Lukashenko supported proposal to determine the polar explorer status in Belarus
At a meeting with scientists and participants of the Belarusian Antarctic expeditions, Head of State Aleksandr Lukashenko supported the proposal to determine the status of a polar explorer in Belarus, BelTA reports
Speaking at the meeting, the Deputy Head of the Republican Centre for Polar Research, head of all Belarusian Antarctic expeditions Aleksei Gaidashov, suggested defining such a status at the regulatory level, since polar explorers are now actually seasonal workers.
“It is necessary to decide on the status and make proposals," the Belarusian leader instructed.
One of the main issues in this regard is the preservation of the length of service, because polar explorers have to leave their main place of work for the duration of expeditions and then find a new job after their return. "There are no so many such people, so study this issue – focusing on medical care and other aspects,” the Head of State agreed.
Mr. Gaidashov’s another request dealt with some changes to the legislation regarding the purchase of the things that polar explorers need. This procedure can be quite complicated sometimes. It may be necessary to buy something specific, and there can be no alternative. "Our main task is safety. We are working autonomously for a long time," he said.
Aleksandr Lukashenko suggested that the Chairman of the National Academy of Sciences should make such procurement decisions on a point-by-point basis for Antarctic expeditions. "I think this will be an ideal option for polar explorers," Mr. Gaidashov agreed.
