Slovak PM supports minister after army depot blast

BRATISLAVA, March 5 (Reuters) Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico expressed support today for Defence Minister Frantisek Kasicky after a blast at an army depot killed at least three people on Friday.

Kasicky offered his resignation after the explosion near the western Slovak town of Novaky, in which dozens were also injured.

Army spokesman Vladimir Gemela said rescue teams were still searching on Monday for five people who went missing after the explosion, which occurred at an army facility used to deactivate ammunition such as mines and missiles.

''I respect the work of Minister Kasicky, and I will not propose his dismissal,'' Fico told the all-news TV channel TA3.

According to law, the prime minister proposes any dismissal of ministers to President Ivan Gasparovic. Ministers can also submit resignations directly to president.

Gasparovic's spokesman was not immediately available for comment.

TA3 said the president had not yet received any official notification from Kasicky of his offer to resign.

REUTERS PDM PM1520