Minister of Labor Martin Kocher (ÖVP) has once again refused to put pressure on the unemployed by stricter checks on the small extra income of 500 euros per month and tougher penalties for violations. Instead of the pressure of sanctions, people should be motivated to accept a part-time or full-time job, Kocher said in the “ZiB 2” on Thursday evening.
The minister refuted criticism from the Labor Chamber (AK) that she was not involved in the targets presented to the Public Employment Service (AMS) on Wednesday. He very much seeks contact with the social partners.
On the discussion whether the wage agreements of about ten percent more gross wages and salaries would further fuel inflation in recent months, the minister agreed with the opinion of the economists of WIFO and IHS: not in the short term, but in the longer term. lead to a consolidation of high inflation. The minister emphasized once again that the government measures have increased purchasing power.
People have to move for work
As Kocher announced, the AMS will focus on full-time placements in the future. Inter-regional mediation must also gain importance – people must be motivated to move for a job. IHS economist Helmut Hofer assessed the new targets as generally positive. Due to the shortage of skilled labor in the labor market, “it makes perfect sense to try to mobilize all possible potential in the labor market,” Hofer said on ORF radio. The Chamber of Commerce also agrees with the new requirements.
The Liberals responded with criticism. Dagmar Belakowitsch, social spokeswoman for the FPÖ, found the guidelines in a broadcast “headless and miles away from the real problems”.
“Targeted support instead of pressure”
The network ‘werk plus’, which helps people on their way, also criticizes the objectives. Instead of putting pressure on the long-term unemployed, they should receive targeted support. “For the long-term unemployed, marginal employment means an opportunity to earn a living and a chance to slowly return to working life,” emphasized “work plus” boss Sabine Rehbichler in a broadcast. She demands an action plan against long-term unemployment from Minister Kocher.
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
