Linz (OTS) – It is particularly important to invest wisely in times of inflation, increased labor demand and the climate crisis. This is exactly what would be possible in the budget state parliament. However, the AK misses bold accents and important decisions in the areas of health, care, the labor market, climate protection and local politics. AK President Andreas Stangl criticizes that far too little is being done to cover the increased demand for workers and calls for a major training offensive for the nursing and health sector and in elementary education. He also doubts whether the debt cap is the right instrument for Upper Austrians to manage the ecological transformation.
The budget state parliament is currently setting the course for necessary investments in Upper Austria. “Unfortunately, the state government coalition is stalling when it comes to prosperity and a good life for everyone
“, sums up AK President Andreas Stangl. We look in vain for adequate investments in our future in the budget. For example in health care and nursing. Upper Austria needs a fifth more staff to relieve the burden on employees in hospitals and nursing homes. “Only smart investments can defuse the situation for those affected
“, says the AK president and calls for a training offensive.
Invest in the labor market and actively shape it
The AK also sees a lack of investment in terms of labor market policy. There is a lack of necessary funds to support young people entering working life and to create more jobs for employees with disabilities. There is also a lack of funds to finance retraining for those changing careers in the nursing and health sectors as well as in elementary education.
Childcare: Labor demand is increasing
There is also a need for action when it comes to the childcare situation. Because: In the coming years, the demand for care and educational places will increase sharply. However, the state government does not have adequate plans to meet this need. Although the municipalities are responsible for implementation, they have insufficient financial resources and solutions as to how they should obtain and finance additional staff and premises.
Communities continue to be starved
Investments in municipalities mean a noticeable quality of life for Upper Austrians. “Unfortunately, communities are still financially starved and do not receive the necessary support for future-relevant projects. In this way, important climate protection measures could be taken in the communities. These would also be an important economic support. The municipalities are ready, but the political will of the ÖVP and FPÖ is lacking
“says the AK president. The additional funds from the federal government as part of the financial equalization (future fund) do not change the situation. This is also proven by new ones Study results from the KDZ (Center for Administrative Research).
Questions & Contact:
Chamber of Labor Upper Austria – Communication
Bianca Karr-Sajtarevic, MSc
+43 (0)50 6906 2174
karr-sajtarevic.b@akooe.at
ooe.arbeiterkammer.at