Worker Verdi Expresses Concern Over Proposed 13-Hour Workday
Article:
Green Party leader, Frank Werneke, voice concerns over proposed changes to working hours by the black-red federal government. During a meeting of the coalition committee, Werneke warned that the move could signal the end of the standard 8-hour workday, replacing it with a maximum of 13 hours.
Werneke expressed apprehension about the potential impact on workers, particularly in smaller businesses without works councils. He suggested that employees may be subjected to deteriorating working conditions if maximum hours are abolished. Sectors such as package delivery and elderly care could be affected.
Chancellor Olaf Scholz (CDU) attempted to present the changes as a flexibility measure, but Werneke dismissed this as a "joke." He noted that employees can already adjust their work schedules but questioned the necessity of further deregulation.
The union service chairman also criticized the federal government's planned immediate program, stating it encroaches on the budgets of municipalities, which are currently grappling with deficits. Werneke condemned the lack of answers from the coalition committee regarding this issue.
Werneke further criticized the government's planned tax policies, contending they disproportionately burden municipalities. He advocated for a balance between company benefits and employee relief, suggesting a reform of the income tax tariff or an increase in the basic allowance, with appropriate taxation of high inheritances to offset revenue losses.
Health and care, according to Werneke, have been neglected in the black-red government's plans. He proposed that the state, not the insured, should bear the costs of benefits for citizens receiving basic security in the statutory health insurance.
In the realm of care, Werneke advocated for a shift towards a full insurance model with capped contributions, aiming to prevent an increase in reliance on social assistance, which in turn burdens municipalities. He praised the extension of the rent brake, the announced federal wage loyalty law, and the initiation of the 500-billion investment package.
- Frank Werneke, the Green Party leader, raised concerns about the proposed changes to working hours by the black-red federal government, suggesting these changes could negatively impact mental health and general wellness in the workplace.
- In light of the proposed changes to working hours, Werneke expressed worry about the potential health and wellness repercussions on employees in smaller businesses, particularly those without works councils.
- As the policy-and-legislation discussions progress, Werneke advocated for a revised income tax tariff or an increased basic allowance to ensure a fair balance between corporate benefits and employee relief.
- The Green Party leader also criticized the black-red government's neglect of health and care, advocating for the state to bear the costs of benefits for citizens receiving basic security in the statutory health insurance, and a shift towards a full insurance model with capped contributions to prevent reliance on social assistance.
