PRESS STATEMENT IG Metall on the results of the coalition committee

“The outcome is like a mixed bag of treats and tricks: We welcome the clear commitment to co-determination—it’s in the DNA of our country. It’s good that the tax reform will leave employees with more take-home pay. The increase in child benefits and the basic tax exemption also helps exactly the right people, and the offsetting funding through the wealth tax ensures a bit more fairness in this country. Now it’s time to set our sights on the super-rich and heirs! When it comes to pension reform, one thing is clear: We will fight tooth and nail to preserve pensions after 45 years of contributions and to maintain partial retirement—and the fight for the 8-hour workday continues as well. Reforms must drive growth! Strengthening industry as a whole—but especially through a commitment to the region in the context of government funding—is a positive step that must be expanded.

We very much welcome the labor market policy measures that have been adopted to promote training—especially for young people—and continued employment. With nearly 3 million young people lacking a high school diploma, these measures are long overdue. The expansion of options for fixed-term contracts without just cause and the weakening of protection against dismissal are an attack on workers’ rights. The abolition of sick leave notifications by phone and the requirement for a medical certificate of incapacity for work (AU) starting on the first day also fulfilled an anti-worker wish list for employers—one that will leave more people in a state of uncertainty and overwhelm family doctors’ offices. I can only appeal to employers: Your wishes have been granted; now stop complaining and finally take steps to secure jobs in this country!”

Further information and press photos of Christiane Benner