Social Welfare Debate: Vienna's Deputy Mayor Advocates for Cuts

"Every child is worth the same, but does not cost the same. I am definitely in favor of reducing contributions per child because this is also a question of fairness towards families who live on earned income," she said in an interview with "profil". The major coalition partner, the SPÖ, is considered opposed to changes in this direction.

SPÖ cautious about social assistance reform

The debate about "too high" social assistance amounts was sparked by a large family receiving 9000 euros per month in benefits from minimum security and family allowance. However, cases like this are a "marginal phenomenon," said the new Vienna Finance Councillor Barbara Novak (SPÖ) recently. She is "open to results" regarding reforms, but they should not be based on "the smallest group." Party colleague and Health Councillor Peter Hacker said last year that he considers it "intolerable cynicism" to demand that families pass on "worn-out clothes" to the younger ones.

Reactions from the opposition

Emmerling's initiative elicited different reactions from the opposition. ÖVP club chairman Harald Zierfuß considers a reform of Vienna's minimum security long overdue: "Perhaps now the Vienna Neos have slowly understood that they can no longer serve as a stepping stone for the SPÖ in this unjust system. Now the NEOS just need to convince their coalition partner of a real reform," he said in a statement.

The reaction from the Greens was contrary: "Especially the NEOS, who repeatedly want to champion equal opportunities for children, are now cutting back when it comes to children we must not lose," criticized city party chairwoman Judith Pühringer. Saving on the "poorest and most vulnerable" is nothing but "raw bourgeoisie." She expressed being "curious" about the reaction of Mayor Michael Ludwig (SPÖ).

(APA/Red)

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