German State Minister Criticizes Federal Government’s Approach to Investment Package
In a prelude to the meeting between the federal government and the states to shape the investment package, North Rhine-Westphalia’s Deputy Minister-President, Mona Neubaur, has expressed her criticism of the federal government’s approach.
Neubaur, a member of the Green party, told the Rheinische Post that it is essential for the federal government to declare its commitment to the promised coherence on Wednesday. “I already think it’s quite cheeky to say, ‘You states agree on all these measures in the Bundesrat, so you’ll pay for it too.’ That’s a very creative interpretation of what was written in the coalition agreement” she said.
Neubaur demanded that the process should not end in a “highly complicated funding jungle.” “It must be streamlined and quick” she emphasized. In the event of a lack of agreement on Wednesday, Neubaur stated, “I could have envisioned a more pleasant summer break, but then we will likely have to find the right way through the Bundesrat. The federal government should also clarify this. We cannot afford to waste time now.”
Neubaur dismissed the concerns of local authorities, who fear that the state might receive “sticky fingers” when it comes to the distribution of funds, saying, “Our municipalities know that this state government negotiates and acts in their interest. The money will go where it is needed.