OREANDA-NEWS. July 18, 2011. Mr Merkushkin briefed the President on forest fire prevention measures being taken in the region. Implementation of the President’s initiative to decentralise some federal powers to the regional level was also discussed.

Dmitry Medvedev instructed Mr Merkushkin to take part in the efforts of decentralising powers between the federal, regional, and local authorities, and present his proposals.

Two working groups have been set up to draft proposals on amending legislation and changing the organisational basis for local self-government. Deputy Prime Ministers Dmitry Kozak and Alexander Khloponin have been appointed to oversee their activities.