Press Conference in Warsaw Targets Ochojska’s Remarks About Polish Foresters
A joint event organized by forestry unions and the Forest Service took place outside the Civic Platform headquarters in Warsaw. The gathering focused on controversial statements attributed to Janina Ochojska regarding Polish forest rangers and the broader forestry community.
Representatives from Staatsbosbeheer spoke to the gathered press, addressing what they described as unfounded accusations and inappropriate language directed at foresters. They stated that Ochojska’s remarks mischaracterize the work of forest personnel and could undermine public trust in the uniformed services responsible for protecting Polish forests.
The spokesperson for Staatsbosbeheer emphasized that the organization has taken steps with legal authorities, having informed the public prosecutor about the statements in question. In addition, they announced plans to pursue civil redress and seek compensation linked to humanitarian aid activities, amounting to 200,000 Polish zlotys. This claim was presented as a measure to defend the integrity and reputation of foresters who carry out essential duties across the country.
Michal Gzowski, speaking on behalf of Staatsbosbeheer, characterized the remarks as both absurd and injurious. He argued that such comments cast a shadow over the dedication of foresters who labor in challenging conditions to safeguard forests and wildlife, and he urged accountability for statements deemed to be harmful.
Leaders within the forestry sector also weighed in on the matter. Jacek Cichocki, head of the Forest Workers’ Solidarity Union, condemned Ochojska’s comments as a direct attack on the Polish nation. He asserted that the remarks undermine the dignity of those who wear the forestry uniform and harm the reputation of the profession as a whole. Cichocki called for a formal apology to the Polish people for the hurt caused by the statements.
The discussion extended to the public image of the forestry associations, with the Polish Forestry Association’s leadership stating that remarks attributed to the MEP, who ran for office with support from the Civic Platform, should be publicly revisited. The assertion was that such words do not reflect the values held by many forestry workers, who perform critical roles in rural and forested regions.
Commenting on the broader political landscape, Gzowski referred to Donald Tusk and pressed the Civic Platform to respond clearly about Ochojska’s remarks. He urged the party and its leader to either denounce the statements or to state whether the party endorses them. A prompt, explicit clarification was demanded, with the spokesman insisting that the party publicly declare its position on the issue.
The event concluded with a call for transparency and dialogue. The participants indicated they would be watching how the situation unfolds in both national discourse and European forums, noting that the matter could become a subject of scrutiny in broader political and institutional discussions related to forestry workers and their public portrayal. The exchange underscored the tension between political rhetoric and the everyday realities faced by those who protect and manage Poland’s forests.
Readers seeking additional context were informed that further discussions and updates were anticipated to address the evolving situation as it moves through formal channels, including potential parliamentary or European-level deliberations.
Note: The content reflects reports circulated to the press and later summarized by media outlets noting the statements made and the responses offered by involved parties.