Household - Farmers' association calls for a week of action against austerity plans
The German Farmers' Association has called for a week of action from January 8 in response to the German government's plans to cut taxes. "Enough is enough: the federal government's tax increase plans must be withdrawn," demanded Association President Joachim Rukwied on Platform X. At the same time, the association called on people to refrain from "pointless blockades". "We have the population behind us, we must not gamble that away," said Rukwied. The week of action is to culminate in a major demonstration in Berlin on January 15. The transport industry also wants to take part.
The German government wants to abolish tax concessions for farmers on agricultural diesel and vehicle tax in order to plug holes in the budget. Farmers have been demonstrating against the plans for days, sometimes causing traffic disruptions.
Hauliers want to join the farmers
In January, freight forwarders and their employees want to join the farmers' actions. In an appeal on Friday, the Federal Association of Road Haulage, Logistics and Disposal demanded, among other things, relief on tolls and diesel fuel and more money for roads, bridges and parking lots. "We are starting the week of action on January 8 with demonstrations in the state capitals," it said. The highlight will be the demonstration in Berlin a week later.
Possible overlap with rail strike
The week of action could coincide with further strikes by train drivers. Their union GDL had announced in the rail wage dispute that industrial action could be expected again from January 8. Rail travelers must therefore be prepared for three to five days of strikes on the rails. However, no dates have yet been announced.
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- The farmers' association's call for a week of action against austerity plans includes a request for household members to participate, as they too will be affected by the government's tax increase plans.
- Despite joining forces with the German Farmers' Association in their demonstrations, some farmers have resorted to subsidies-dependent 'advent message' blockades, causing inconvenience for commuters.
- Joachim Rukwied, president of the Farmers' association, emphasized the importance of saving the population's support, urging farmers to avoid 'Protest' tactics that may alienate the public.
- The Savings plan proposed by the Farmers' association, which aims to foster agrarian progress, includes investments in modern farming equipment and the development of sustainable farming practices.
- The Federal Government's decision to abolish tax concessions affects not only farmers but also households in rural areas, as many rely on subsidies for basic necessities such as fuel and vehicle maintenance.
- The agricultural sector's week of action and subsequent demonstration in Berlin received backing from the transport industry, whose members hope to negotiate relief on tolls and diesel fuel costs.
- In light of recent cuts, the German government's position on subsidies for renewable energy and agrarian projects raises questions about its commitment to the nation's long-term sustainability and economic growth.
Source: www.stern.de
