Before hearing individual citizen appeals, Dmitry Medvedev addressed staff at all Presidential reception centres that are being opened in the regions. The President noted that the majority of the appeals submitted by individuals to the President concern issues pertaining to the provision of housing, social matters, utilities sector, and in most cases, involve subjects within regional authorities’ jurisdiction. Dmitry Medvedev emphasised that resolving citizens’ problems must be a priority for local government bodies. Particular attention must be given to appeals from elderly citizens. Furthermore, the President demanded that answers to appeals be given in a substantive and timely manner.
Starting today, residents of all regions can appeal to the President through Presidential reception offices that have opened in all constituent entities of the country. Dmitry Medvedev emphasised that the approach toward handling appeals must change: citizens must be given the opportunity to monitor the progress of their appeals through the use of electronic technologies, including websites and electronic reception offices, which will open in 48 regions. Mr Medvedev also stated the need for an exchange of information between Presidential reception offices and government services centres that are being created in the regions.
During the videoconference, the President was addressed by residents of the Primorye Territory, the Republic of Bashkortostan, Penza, Rostov, and Smolensk Regions. Following each appeal, the President gave concrete instructions to governors and corresponding ministers. One of the instructions was given following an appeal in the President’s blog, submitted by the Tver Region residents.
In particular, the instructions concern implementing energy efficient city lighting and heating systems, as well as modernising water supply facilities.