“In times of crisis, stability is needed”

The ÖGB regrets the failure of the government negotiations. “This development could lead to political instability – exactly the opposite of what Austria needs now: a government that accepts the responsibility of overcoming the major challenges. In times of crisis, stability is needed,” comments Korinna Schumann, Vice President and Women’s Chair of the ÖGB.

All political forces should be aware of this responsibility, Schumann continued. Above all, it is important to get the high budget deficit under control, slow down rising energy prices and housing costs and combat unemployment. In addition, investments are urgently needed in the expansion of the infrastructure, in the health and care sector, in children’s education places and in climate protection, the ÖGB Vice President outlines the central challenges: “This is the only way jobs can be secured and the location strengthened. In order to be able to make these important investments, a fairer tax and contribution policy is needed.”

Both in the interests of employees, pensioners and all people who live in Austria, as well as in view of the geopolitical world situation and the economic recession, a decision must now be made quickly as to what happens next, Schumann concluded.