In a TV interview with Gerhard Koller, Sybille Pirklbauer, head of the “Social Policy Department” of the Vienna Workers’ Chamber, addresses a clear taboo: “The current working time regulations have not changed for decades and are completely obsolete (… ) eight in ten respondents say they generally prefer to work 30 rather than 40 hours a week – even if the salary is reduced accordingly.”
This reduction intent would exist in all industries – and if this “30 hours a week” becomes the “new full-time work” in the future, only part-time workers would be willing to increase it to 30 hours a week. Despite the reduction in individual working hours, this would correspond to the currently noticeable problem of the shortage of skilled workers: “This 30-hour workweek model is our clear goal – because that’s the way people want it,” says Pirklbauer.
She also strongly criticizes current social security schemes: in order to receive social assistance, many applicants would have to “strip down to the hilt”. For example, numerous documents would have to be submitted for the application, which are often not available, but which cost a lot of money to obtain.
“This is where the legislator must finally take action”
In addition, social assistance in Austria is far too low and usually does not cover the minimum housing costs of 1400 euros per month in this country: “The legislator must finally take action here and drastically increase the number of people entitled to benefits. Austria currently has about 1.5 million people at risk of poverty, but only 200,000 people currently receive social assistance – and that is not enough to cope with life,” says the social policy expert.
You can see many more details in the video above, such as the currently pressing cost factors.
We explain what everyone is thinking about right now: the latest news conversations with politicians and experts.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
