No more wrong priorities: Strengthening purchasing power instead of fueling a bonus spiral in management

In the current debate about the reduction of corporate income tax (KÖSt) and non-wage labour costs, Roman Hebenstreit, chairman of the transport and service trade union vida, is calling for an end to the wrong political priorities. The repeated demands from industry and corporate circles are nothing more than "fairy tales from the moth box" - and would miss the real problems of employees and many companies.

"A reduction in corporate tax is a mockery of every hard-working person," Hebenstreit clarifies. Anyone who seriously claims to strengthen the business location is deliberately ignoring who actually benefits from this measure.

KÖSt reduction: Gift for winners, no help for businesses in need

Companies that are really under pressure don't pay corporate tax – because they don't make a profit. A KÖSt reduction therefore only benefits those who are already making high profits. "This deprives the welfare state of urgently needed funds and is nothing more than clientelism for those who have had enough anyway," Hebenstreit criticized on the occasion of the current government retreat.

Especially in times of high prices and growing uncertainty, investments in stability and social security are needed – not additional tax gifts for large corporations.

Debate on non-wage labour costs: Fraudulent labelling at the expense of employees

The criticism of the demands for a reduction in non-wage labour costs is particularly sharp. "This is a deeply mendacious debate," said Hebenstreit. This is because behind so-called non-wage costs are central benefits such as pensions, health and accident insurance.

"Anyone who cuts here is in fact cutting benefits for employees. To sell this as relief is a label fraud and undermines the welfare state through the back door," warns the vida chairman.

Lower energy prices instead of post-haggling and uncontrolled growth of the board

From the point of view of the trade union vida, the real problem lies elsewhere: with energy prices, which are still far too high. "They are the real poison for the location. While many people no longer know how to pay their bills, energy companies continue to make hefty profits," says Hebenstreit.

It is particularly outrageous that in individual companies – as was recently the case with EVN in Lower Austria – the number of board members has been increased despite surplus funds. "Millions for additional board salaries, while customers and employees suffer from high prices - that's the bottom of the barrel."

A strong economy needs strong purchasing power

Hebenstreit also criticizes the political background of such decisions: "One cannot help but get the impression that the interests of the FPÖ also played a role here. There is no other way to explain why the number of board members was increased in a phase in which savings would have been appropriate. This is post-bargaining – on the backs of customers and employees."

The demand of the trade union vida is clear: "We need a return to reason - investments in key technologies, fair wages and affordable energy. A strong economy is created by strong purchasing power, not by tax gifts for large corporations and supply posts for party supporters."