After a multi-billion dollar aid package was presented on Tuesday, which also included the abolition of cold progression, the individual points were again extensively discussed in the press foyer on Wednesday after the Council of Ministers. Treasury Secretary Magnus Brunner (ÖVP) again described the abolition of cold progression as an “act of justice” and sees it as a way to effectively curb inflation.
“I’m glad we’re out of the cold progression. We’ve reversed the big screws,” said the finance minister. This would save taxpayers between €15 and €20 billion by 2026, depending on how inflation develops. “This will help us get out of the inflation spiral,” continues Brunner.
“Get the Root of the Problem”
Environment Minister Leonore Gewessler added that you should also look at why you ended up in this situation. “High electricity and gas prices are to blame,” said the green politician. That’s why you need to get to the root of the problem and get out of fossil fuels. The clear path is to “use less gas and produce more renewables”.
The war in Ukraine shows the dependence – and it must now be eliminated, the minister continued. The minister is sure that the aid package has worked hard to absorb the price shock – and referred, for example, to the climate bonus, which was increased significantly. This will be increased from the original 100 to 200 euros, depending on the living environment, to a total of 500 euros per adult. Half price for children.
Cash injection for families
Minister of the Family Susanne Raab then discussed the financial compensation for children and families, with an emphasis on the family allowance plus (2000 euros), the increase in the child benefit (now 550 euros) or the 180 euros for the child benefit in August. She also described this as a “historic step”. Valorisation of child benefits: “If life becomes more expensive, all benefits are increased,” says Raab.
Support for people with little money
Meanwhile, Labor Minister Martin Kocher reassured that the aid package does not forget about low-income people – such as people on benefits, the unemployed and minimum pensioners. This group will receive a subsidy of 300 euros in September. “The focus is on people who earn little,” said the minister.
Source: Krone
I’m an experienced news author and editor based in New York City. I specialize in covering healthcare news stories for Today Times Live, helping to keep readers informed on the latest developments related to the industry. I have a deep understanding of medical topics, including emerging treatments and drugs, the changing laws that regulate healthcare providers, and other matters that affect public health.
