- Card payments: Countries prefer a unified strategy
Even though there's been a hold-up in nationwide payment card implementation for asylum seekers, Brandenburg districts are campaigning for a unified strategy. Unlike Märkisch-Oderland, they're not keen on opting for personalized tactics, mentioned Holger Obermann, vice-chairman of the district association, responding to a query.
Personalized strategies may stretch the timeline
The expanded district assembly board convened in the afternoon, and among their discussions was the payment card. The attendees agreed that if each district rolled out the card autonomously, they'd also need to conduct separate bids. This could results in further delays and substantial resource allocation, as Obermann pointed out.
Märkisch-Oderland has already deployed the card
Märkisch-Oderland was the sole district that implemented the card following their individual tender in May. Brandenburg's Minister-President Dietmar Woidke (SPD) speculated that other districts might join suit.
Scrutiny over allocation criteria
Per the agreed-upon criteria, adult asylum seekers will be allowed to withdraw a maximum of 50 euros in cash per month via the card, with a cap of 25 euros for minors. However, the layout is under fire. The refugee council, for instance, perceives the amount as condescending and inadequate.
Additional delays due to dispute resolution
The nationwide introduction of a payment card for refugees is being hindered by a dispute with an unsuccessful tender bidder, who filed a complaint with the Higher Regional Court in Karlsruhe. Consequently, no award can be made until the court renders its decision on October 18. Whether a judgment will be given on the same day remains uncertain.
The Potsdam district, like many others in Brandenburg, is advocating for a unified strategy in the implementation of payment cards for asylum seekers, due to the potential delays and resource allocation issues that personalized strategies might bring. Despite Märkisch-Oderland's successful implementation of the card, other districts are cautious about following their lead due to the potential complications.
