Verkhovna Rada Committee wants to toughen responsibility for damage to places of worship

Verkhovna Rada Committee on Culture and Spirituality supported bill № 5679 to ban outdoor advertising on the monuments of cultural heritage and bill № 5677 to increase responsibility in the area of protection of monuments, reports Reradio citing RISU.

The bill provides for increasing penalties for damage to cultural heritage. Among them are "places of worship and structures" – churches and cemeteries.

It is proposed to set a fine of 1 million 600 thousand hryvnia for damage to monuments. Damage is also considered the application of inscriptions and symbols on the monument. The bill provides for a strict monitoring of compliance with the requirements for the repair, maintenance of necessary conditions and carrying out construction and repair and other works.

Outdoor advertising on the monuments of cultural heritage is proposed to be punishable by a fine of 3 million 800 thousand hryvnia per 1 sq. m advertising.

The Committee supported the bills, which further should be voted on by MPs.

Read also

Bishop-elect Michael Crowley Tonsured at Jordanville

Bishop-elect Michael Crowley was tonsured a monk at Jordanville ahead of his upcoming episcopal consecration.

His Grace Seraphim Sigrist, Former Bishop of Sendai, Reposes

Bp. Seraphim, a longtime missionary bishop in Japan and educator in the United States, reposed on February 7 at age 84.

ROCOR Releases Financial Update on Kursk Root Icon Residence Restoration

ROCOR leaders say urgent repairs are underway at the historic Synodal Residence as fundraising continues to meet a $15 million restoration goal.

Four Mt. Athos Monks Injured in Greece Highway Accident

Four Athonite monks were injured in a highway accident, with one remaining in critical condition.

Pskov Caves Monastery Marks 20 Years Since Elder John’s Repose

The Pskov Caves Monastery commemorates Archimandrite John, honoring his life of labor, prayer, and spiritual guidance for generations of Russian Orthodox faithful.

Patr. Theodoros II Leads Historic Ecumenical Service in Panama

Patr. Theodoros II visits Panama, joining Orthodox in an historic prayer service promoting Christian unity.