The SPD wants to forge a "Pact of Democrats" to maneuver Thuringia well through the energy crisis. So far, however, the proposed alliance has met with only moderate approval.
Erfurt (dpa/th) - The proposal by the Thuringian SPD to form a so-called Pact of Democrats to provide better support, for example for families in the energy crisis, has so far elicited rather restrained reactions. For example, the Greens and the Thuringian economy do not see a lack of knowledge, but rather a lack of action in the fight against increased prices for energy and food. Although understanding is always better in a crisis, the talks must then be followed by solutions, said Greens state chairwoman Ann-Sophie Bohm of the German Press Agency.
SPD leader Georg Maier had proposed an alliance of several parties, trade unions and business associations at the state party conference in Suhl on Saturday. Its goal should be a "master plan" for Thuringia. According to Maier, the SPD wants, among other things, to ensure that the cost of meals for parents in schools and kindergartens is capped.
Green Party leader Bohm said it was not enough, for example, to keep calling on the federal government to deal with the crisis. The country can also play its part. In the course of possible talks for such an alliance, a massive expansion of renewable energies must then also be discussed. Companies and consumers need a perspective on how energy can remain affordable, not only in the short term but also in the long term.
The general manager of the Thuringia Business Association, Stephan Fauth, also spoke of a lack of action in the current crisis. This also has to do with the unclear majorities in the state parliament. The Thuringian companies are currently in regular contact with Economics Minister Wolfgang Tiefensee (SPD). "We must act now," said Fauth.
The chairman of the Confederation of German Trade Unions (DGB) in Hesse-Thuringia, Michael Rudolph, was more open to Maier's proposal. It always makes sense to sit down and discuss how to solve difficult issues. "We're also available for that." The energy crisis can only be solved if existing hurdles are overcome at both federal and state level.
From the point of view of the trade unions, such talks must urgently be discussed as to how energy prices could be pushed down. This is important for both employees and private individuals.
