Retired individuals' association lashes out at IV Knill's head.
Modern Take:
The Pensioners' Association (PVO) is firing back at Industrial Association (IV) President, Georg Knill, over his call for an increase in the pensionable age to 70. Helmut Bieler, the interim PVO President, isn't holding back: "Those pushing for an increase in the pensionable age are just stirring the pot and causing unnecessary stress."
Pension Costs to Soar by 2029 Despite Reforms
Knill had previously suggested moving toward a retirement age of 70 in an interview with ZIB2. Denmark recently decided on this step, causing him to question, "Why should Austria be any different?" Knill believes we should have an "honest conversation" about this issue, as the current system isn't sustainable and needs a government that tackles reforms head-on.
Jobs for Older Workers Necessary
Instead of raising the retirement age, the Pensioners' Association argues for more jobs for people over 50. They advocate for initiatives that help people stay healthy longer in the workforce. Bieler discards the notion that older workers don't want to work, explaining that suitable jobs are scarce.
Statistical Facts
Bieler emphasizes that people over 50 are disproportionately affected by long-term unemployment. Across Austria, a third of long-term unemployed individuals are over 50, and a quarter are over 55. Ageism in the economy is a significant factor, so the Pensioners' Association has long advocated for a bonus-malus system that rewards companies employing or hiring older workers and penalizes those forcing older workers out or massively retiring early.
GPA-Teiber: "Cynicism"
The trade union GPA is also criticizing the proposal. Barbara Teiber, the GPA chair, labels it a "thoughtless provocation" against those who have worked their entire lives.
If older workers lose their jobs after 55, she says, they have a hard time re-entering the workforce. Teiber questions whether those who should work until 70 are the ones battling in hospitals or on construction sites. She further adds, "If Knill wants to work until 70, that's his choice. But before he forces this on all Austrians, he should understand that it's much easier to say from a TV studio than after a grueling shift."
(Agencies, jg)
Enrichment Insights:- Raising the retirement age is often viewed as increasing the burden on older workers, especially in demanding jobs.- Negative reactions to raising the retirement age are common not only in Austria but also in other countries such as Denmark.- It's essential to consult official statements or publications from The Pensioners' Association or the Industrial Association for their specific opinions regarding the pensionable age.
- The Pensioners' Association argues that an increase in the retirement age to 70, as suggested by the Industrial Association, could lead to unnecessary stress and burden for older workers.
- Helmut Bieler, the interim President of the Pensioners' Association, emphasizes the need for more job opportunities for people over 50 to help them stay healthy and active in the workforce.
- Barbara Teiber, the chair of the trade union GPA, labels the proposal to raise the retirement age as a thoughtless provocation that is against those who have worked their entire lives.
- Ageism in the economy plays a significant role in the disproportionate number of older workers, particularly those over 50, who face long-term unemployment.
- The Pensioners' Association advocates for a bonus-malus system that encourages companies to employ or hire older workers while penalizing those that force older workers out or encourage early retirement.
