Marterbauer defends double budget against criticism from OeNB, opposition and industry

Criticism from the central bank on the consolidation measures

Marterbauer clearly rejected demands to take an axe to the social system. He said he was in any case not willing to take an axe to the social system or destroy the health and education systems, as demanded by some quarters. He also once again rejected raising the statutory retirement age, justifying this by saying it would not help the current budget.

On the ORF program "Hohes Haus," Arnold Schiefer criticized Marterbauer for trying to sell a budget full of new burdens as a consolidation success. The double budget contains no buffer, which is why tightening measures will likely be necessary in a year, Schiefer said. The Greens accused the government of saving at the expense of the broad masses while sparing the super-rich. Budget spokesman Jakob Schwarz described cuts in the environmental and climate area as particularly bitter.

Opposition and IV demand a stricter austerity course

The Federation of Industries (IV) pushed for a "more ambitious austerity course." The aim must not be "merely complying with European deficit limits," the IV stated. It called for considerably more ambitious expenditure-side reforms in order to achieve a balanced budget with room for investment and relief for future generations.

On individual measures, Marterbauer explained that the incomplete valorization of pensions would dampen the long-term growth of pension expenditure. The reduction in non-wage labor costs would take the drama out of wage negotiations. The increase in FLAF contributions for older workers was a proposal from the business community; Marterbauer doubted, however, that the measure would have strong effects on the employment of older workers. The increase in unemployment insurance contributions for low-income earners was not his "first measure of choice."

Pensions, health and negotiations with the states

Marterbauer sees progress in the ongoing negotiations: although he is not directly involved in the health reform negotiations, he hears that things are moving forward. He cited the channeling of patient flows as a central lever for a more efficient health system. He was also confident in the financial equalization that the talks with the states on their contribution to consolidation financing would lead to an agreement; the next round of negotiations with the state finance ministers is scheduled for next Wednesday.

Marterbauer has repeatedly rejected accusations of cronyism in connection with the promotion of his cabinet chief Georg Ortner to the board of ÖBB-Infrastruktur. He said he did not understand why he "should have engaged in cronyism," because from his perspective Ortner's departure was a huge loss, as he was losing his "best man." Less categorically than in the past, Marterbauer commented on his announced withdrawal from politics after the current legislative period: "Only my wife could release me from this promise," he said, referring to a 2029 promise to his wife.