19/09/2018 (Agence Europe) – On Wednesday 19 September, the European Parliament's civil liberties (LIBE) committee spoke of its concern about the "corruption, conflicts of interest and impunity in the circles of Slovak power" after a visit to the country. The conclusion of the two-day visit, led by Sophie in’t Veld (ALDE, Netherlands), was that rule-of-law principles should be strengthened generally in the EU, as the EU should not become a "paradise for gangsters". It was also concluded that Europol's role should be strengthened on this. In't Veld nevertheless expressed satisfaction regarding the investigation into the murder of journalist Jan Kuciak and his fiancée, which "seems to be moving forwards". When in Slovakia, the delegation met NGOs and also the ministers of the interior and justice. A LIBE committee delegation leaves for Malta on Wednesday. (SP)