The Greens have criticised the reforms initiated by the government as insufficient, particularly the plans for long-term care. What is coming out of the Health Ministry is "not a reform, but above all a law that will increase the burden and poverty for those requiring care and their families," said parliamentary manager Irene Mihalic on Wednesday in Berlin.
Not only will family members be asked to contribute more financially, but the biggest challenges, such as the shortage of skilled workers, are not being addressed.
"If the federal government keeps going the way it is, and this applies essentially to everything it is currently presenting, then the word reform will become the unword of the year," said the Green politician. She also referred to the health reform by Minister Nina Warken (CDU) and the BAföG reform, where the planned higher payments for students are currently being called into question again.
The coalition dispute over the BAföG reform is "an act of confession," said the Green parliamentary manager. "The federal government is leaving students out in the cold, and this, even as life is getting more and more expensive." The fuel subsidy was significantly more expensive than the planned higher flat rates for students, "money is available for one, but not for the other." The Greens expect the government "to put forward a BAföG that actually covers the cost of living for students."
On Wednesday evening, the coalition leadership met at the chancellery with trade unions and employers' associations to discuss the planned reforms in the social sector and measures to strengthen the economy. Of course it is good that these conversations are happening, but it is too late and should have taken place immediately after the new government began, said Mihalic.
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