The Ministry for Regional Development of the Czech Republic (MRD) belongs to the system of central bodies of the state administration of the Czech Republic in areas defined by relevant legal documents. With its powers, competences and responsibilities for managing funds, it plays an important role in government. The Ministry was established with effect from 1 November 1996 and is the central body of the state administration in matters of: regional policy, housing policy, development of housing and housing stock, rental of apartments and non-residential premises, planning, building regulations, expropriation, investment policy, tourism , public auctions and real estate activities, funeral services.