Debate about tax cuts: Relief measures must be felt across the board

DGB boss Yasmin Fahimi has called on the federal government to provide noticeable relief, not only for the socially needy.

"Relief measures must also be felt across the board," said the chairwoman of the German Trade Union Confederation of the German Press Agency in Berlin.

"Sure, the federal government can't put a big cheese cover over us," said Fahimi.

There is also a great willingness to show solidarity.

"But there is growing irritation that in times of crisis, sacrifice is always demanded the most from those who have the least," Fahimi said.

"Therefore, the government must offer a smart overall solution."

Pressure remains high

Fahimi described the gas levy as correct in the matter.

However, it burdens an average household four times more than the EEG surcharge last did.

"It is therefore right to reduce VAT on gas at the same time," said Fahimi.

Chancellor Olaf Scholz (SPD) had announced this.

Fahimi said: "But why isn't the electricity tax finally reduced to the minimum permissible in Europe?"

Overall, the pressure to reduce energy costs remains high.

"And not just for a few need groups, but actually also across the board," said Fahimi.

"A more detailed debate" is therefore necessary about who will be relieved and to what extent.

“Those who cannot pay their bills, i.e. in particular transfer recipients, must experience complete relief.” The situation is also difficult for people with low annual incomes or small pensions.

"They don't have any reserves either, and it's not just about saving on one or the other vacation," said the DGB boss.

"Even if we can't absorb every burden 100 percent, we have to give these people a signal that we are absorbing them and that they too can plan again."

Government must create prospects

It's not just about the electricity and gas bill for this year.

Germany's top trade unionist said: "But what about the perspective of 2023, 2024?

Can I still plan anything at all, such as holidays or any purchases?

Or do I have to hold it all back?"

Fahimi said: "Of course we are committed to the federal government taking further measures this year." This could be an additional energy price flat rate, which should then also apply to pensioners and students.

However, such a lump sum cannot be a permanent solution.

"That's why our demand for an energy price cap is more relevant than ever," said Fahimi.

The DGB boss had already proposed such a cap before the start of the concerted action to which Scholz had invited the heads of employers and employees to the Chancellery because of the high inflation.