It took these 13 retirees to get the chancellor’s salary. So the decision makers live in a different reality. Can this go well?
The Chancellor’s job is not easy. You work a lot, you never please everyone. Top politicians should get top salaries. And would have deserved this – theoretically. But can you really make the right decisions for other people whose reality of life is so far removed from yours? Chancellor Karl Nehammer (ÖVP) will receive 22,600 euros gross per month. According to social insurance, the average pension for men is 1,858 euros. Women get almost 40 percent less – 1150 euros. That’s not much. And because of inflation, it’s getting less and less.
When it comes to pensions, every cent is negotiated
“I understand that people are angry when managers and politicians rake in money and we normal citizens have nothing left in their pockets,” says Hannelore W. Many people now have no understanding when politicians, who earn tens of thousands of euros, deal with the Give a raise at times of crisis. But when it comes to adjusting pensions to inflation, every cent is bickered.
“I’ve worked hard for 45 years and dutifully paid into the system for decades. I just want justice now. We’re not an annoying part of society,” says Martha H. And that’s how many seniors feel when their retirement is discussed.
“A Drop in the Ocean”
Certainly when State Secretary for Youth Claudia Plakolm (ÖVP) says that under no circumstances should pensions be increased by ten percent. Why? Because it certainly does not increase the student salary that much. Only 5.8 percent more should come out for retirees. A drop in the ocean. After all, Red Vienna has just increased the rates for waste processing, water and sewage by almost six percent.
Even shopping is a challenge
“It is becoming more and more difficult to just do the shopping. I only buy the essentials and pay 50 euros,” says Ingrid G. And her birthday party is canceled this year either. “Invite ten people, I can’t afford that anymore.”
Concerns about children and grandchildren are increasing
But not only the concern to make ends meet with the little money. “I’m pessimistic about the future. When people can’t eat anymore, riots start. For the first time in my life I’m really worried about the future of my grandchildren,” says Elisabeth L. One thing is clear: politicians have to do something about it now. And finally, take the concerns and needs of retirees seriously.
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.
