We are sitting here in the government building on Vienna’s Stubenring, not far from Agriculture Minister Norbert totschnig. How frequently enough do you talk to your party colleague about the EU’s free trade agreement with South America Mercosur?
Wolfgang hattmannsdorfer
I understand the concerns of agriculture and the Minister of Agriculture. We have a very small-scale agriculture sector, but I am committed to Mercosur. Once I am convinced of something, I articulate it.
the ÖVP farmers’ association rejects Mercosur, the business wing supports it. How entrenched is this conflict – and can the ÖVP’s no turn into a yes in this legislative period?
Hattmannsdorfer
When markets like the USA become more uncertain and China massively supports its industry,we need new sales markets. South America, Africa, the Middle East – especially the gulf States – but also Asia and India are important to us. We have to position ourselves more broadly here.
You caused quite a stir with the part-time debate in the summer.Did you come across the term “part-time lifestyle” or was it a conscious choice?
Hattmannsdorfer
I still think the term is correct. It doesn’t add up that Austria is at the bottom when it comes to economic growth, but is at the forefront when it comes to reducing working hours. These two poles are not mutually exclusive. This is a mindset issue. We have to ensure that we become a performance-friendly, competitive society again.Without more willingness to perform, we will not be able to maintain prosperity.
How controversial is this issue within the coalition?
Hattmannsdorfer
It is indeed well known that the Social Democrats think differently here. I am all the more proud that we have implemented measures together: the abolition of educational leave, no small additional earnings during unemployment, the tax-free employee bonus without the obligation to enter into a collective agreement and the allowance of 15,000 euros for work beyond retirement age. The ÖVP’s clear signature is evident here, and it also corresponds to my ideological conviction that we have a clear commitment to performance, hard work and excellence.
In public you have found very clear words for all those who do not want to
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