Viennese Savings Package Also Affects District Budgets

"The Vienna districts are helping to save. They are showing that they are reliable partners in supporting the collective efforts of budget consolidation," said Finance Councillor Barbara Novak (SPÖ) in a statement. The spokesperson for the SPÖ district leaders, Liesing district chief Gerald Bischof, stated: "It is understandable that the Vienna districts will also contribute to the consolidation process within the framework of the district budgets."

Appeal for Unity from the City of Vienna

Novak expressed confidence that "unity at all levels" is now needed. Municipalities, the federal government, and districts must work together: "The ongoing stability pact negotiations make it clear that a nationwide alliance is needed. We also expect the federal government to take on this responsibility, because only together can we sustainably secure Vienna's public services." The federal capital is currently putting together a savings package. Announced at the beginning of the week were price or tariff increases for public transport and parking. Mayor Michael Ludwig (SPÖ) has also announced cuts to minimum security.

Criticism from City District Chief Figl on Freezing of District Budgets

Somewhat annoyed by the step was the district leader of the first district, Markus Figl, who is also the acting chairman of the Vienna ÖVP. "The districts that are not governed by the SPÖ were merely informed," he criticized. True dialogue looks different. The districts should not be made to pay just because the city government is not doing its homework and simply cannot manage economically, Figl said.

(APA/Red)

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