Intense Disapproval of Söder's Proposed Plans
In a move that has sparked controversy, Bavarian Minister President Markus Söder (CSU) has announced plans to reduce 10,000 positions in the public sector by the year 2040. This decision, which aims to streamline the state apparatus, has been met with strong opposition from various sectors.
One of the main concerns is the potential reform of part-time options for teachers. Söder believes that employing external recruits in the education sector is inefficient when up to 50% of the trained teaching staff are part-time. However, this proposal has been criticised by the Bavarian Teachers' and Teachers' Association (BLLV), who argue that the state needs more jobs, not fewer.
The BLLV President, Simone Fleischmann, asserts that educators deserve more appreciation, not less. Rainer Nachtigall, chairman of the Bavarian Civil Servants' Association, urges Söder to continue discussions about public budget consolidation and future-proofing public services.
Bernhard Stiedl, chairman of the German Trade Union Confederation in Bavaria, has expressed concern over the job cuts. He warns that reducing staff in this situation could endanger the state's ability to act and exacerbate the already tense situation for both employees and citizens.
Verdi, another union, has stressed that the public service is already groaning under a massive workload. Manuela Dietz, the responsible regional department head of Verdi, has stated that overtime is piling up, jobs are lacking, sick leave often remains uncompensated, and the workload is increasing.
The Philologists' Association and the Directors' Association have also criticised Söder's plans, stating they are detrimental to an already overburdened education sector. They characterise Söder's plans as demotivating and trust-destroying, especially in the gymnasium sector.
Stiedl believes the job cuts send a disastrous signal and pose a greater threat than the January 2024 plan to cut 5,000 jobs. He states that the public service is already under enormous pressure, with a lack of jobs in various sectors including kindergartens, schools, universities, police, healthcare, courts, and financial authorities.
As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how Söder will address these concerns and whether the planned job cuts will proceed as announced.
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