Düsseldorf (dpa / lnw) - The SPD opposition calls for an "immediate program NRW" to relieve the needy in view of rising prices. Pensioners, low earners and recipients of social assistance in particular need support, said the vice chairwoman of the SPD parliamentary group, Lisa-Kristin Kapteinat, on Wednesday in Düsseldorf. However, the coalition agreement between the CDU and the Greens remains vague at crucial points in the fight against poverty. "The higher earners' coalition does not have an eye on the reality of many people's lives."
Kapteinat demanded that the state government should provide the municipalities with funds to combat electricity and gas cuts. Similar to the vouchers for corona masks, there could be a voucher program for energy-saving shower heads, thermostats and other savings measures. A nationwide campaign to save electricity is also needed.
The SPD is also demanding a state program funded with eight million euros to strengthen the social labor market, especially in regions with high unemployment. After all, according to the poverty report of the Paritätischer Wohlfahrtsverband, NRW has a poverty rate of 18.7 percent, well above the national average, Kapteinat determined. With 21.1 percent, the Ruhr area is even the sadder nationwide leader.
