Migration - Critique from the SPD fraction on the payment card
At the Asylseekers' Payment Card, criticism comes from the SPD faction. The question is open as to whether there are even reasonable reasons for its introduction, stated SPD parliamentarian Jan Lehmann. "The Payment Card is senseless symbol politics. The integration of refugees is a great challenge that does not become smaller by making their lives unnecessarily harder," he warned.
"The CDU has jumped on populist nonsense"
"This doesn't hold anyone back from the beginning of their flight." Lehmann went on the offensive against the coalition partner: "Unfortunately, the CDU in Berlin has also jumped on this now proven populist nonsense."
SPD parliamentarian raises doubts about a flat rate expense limit
The controversial introduction of the Payment Card between SPD and CDU is causing further discussions. "Together with many others, I will continue to advocate that the benefit for the affected always comes first. Populism must also be fought here," explained Lehmann.
Lehmann had submitted a comprehensive written inquiry to the Senate regarding the Payment Card. In response to the answers from the Social Administration, he criticized that neither the costs of the Payment Card nor the administrative effort have been disclosed so far. It is also unclear whether savings can be made.
The Senate and especially the CDU have justified the introduction of the Payment Card with a lower administrative effort. As an argument for the Payment Card, it is also mentioned that it can prevent Asylseekers from paying money to smugglers or that smugglers could be paid back later.
Divergent assessments in the Senate
The Social Administration admitted in its response to Lehmann's questions, however, that the Senate has no knowledge of whether Asylseekers pay money to smugglers or whether smugglers are paid back later.
Even within the Senate itself, assessments of the Payment Card differ: Berlin's CDU chairman and Governing Mayor Kai Wegner has been advocating for it for a long time. Social Senator Cansel Kiziltepe (SPD) has expressed criticism several times and has rejected a rigid limit for the expense allowance.
- Despite the SPD's criticism of the Asylseekers' Payment Card, asylum seekers in Hamburg continue to rely on it for their daily needs.
- The opposition party, PDP, has not missed the opportunity to voice their disapproval towards the Payment Card, aligning with the SPD's stance.
- The integration of refugee populations into German society is a complex issue that the Payment Card, according to Lehmann, may negatively impact.
- The CDU, including its faction in Berlin, has been accused of embracing populist sentiments with their support for the Payment Card.
- The finances associated with the implementation and maintenance of the Payment Card remain undisclosed, adding fuel to the controversy and sparking concerns about potential waste.
- The integration of asylum seekers into German society is a shared responsibility, and finding a balance between security and livability for all parties involved is crucial.
