Gewessler criticizes government for "concrete policy"

"If wrecking balls are driven through nature conservation, we will oppose it," Gewessler announced at a retreat of the Green Club in Eisenstadt. In Burgenland, however, "things are moving forward because the Greens are governing here," she said. Deputy Governor Anja Haider-Wallner emphasized that Burgenland is thus the "stronghold for nature conservation."

Gewessler Fears "Backslide" on Mercosur

"What we have seen in recent months was simply too little," Gewessler criticized at the press conference, noting that the federal government's announcements were followed by no or too small actions. She emphasized: "We are a constructive opposition party, we take action. When it comes to affordable energy prices, we are involved." Likewise with "E-Card instead of credit card" and with nature conservation "anyway."

The club chairwoman also already sees the "next backslide," namely with the Mercosur agreement. Free trade is an important foundation, but the agreement would cause harm on both sides, she was convinced. On one hand, it harms the small-scale agriculture in Austria, and on the other hand, farmers and the environment in South America are exploited. Now the resistance of the Farmers' Union and also the SPÖ at the federal level is crumbling: "The Greens will not participate in this."

Gewessler for Quick Relief on Energy Prices

Haider-Wallner - she is the first green agricultural councilor - announced that at the meeting of the state agricultural councilors in Graz this week, Mercosur will be made a topic and hopes for a unanimous resolution against it. "Whether in opposition or government, you can rely on us to stay behind it," said Haider-Wallner.

When asked about the Greens in the state government now supporting the hospital in Gols (district of Neusiedl am See) that was already planned before the red-green cooperation, the Deputy Governor admitted that voters were initially disappointed. However, the decisions had already been made, and it was possible to implement compensatory measures: "We got the best out of the issue that was already settled before the state election." Wherever possible, the Greens would take responsibility, Gewessler also referred to the Lobau tunnel construction, which she had stopped and is now planned again.

Regarding Austria's economic situation, Gewessler stated that she understands that many people are worried. Quick relief could be achieved with energy prices: "The be-all and end-all is affordable energy." There is also leverage through the state energy suppliers: "And I urgently advise doing so."

(APA/Red)

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