Source link : https://love-europe.com/2024/11/27/austria/a-roundup-of-the-latest-news-on-wednesday/
The EU plans deficit procedure against Austria in January
The European Commission is set to open an excessive deficit procedure against Austria in January due to Stability and Growth Pact violations. According to Die Presse, Austria’s projected deficits of 3.6 percent for this year and 3.7 percent for next year far exceed the EU’s three percent limit and are not temporary. The Austrian Ministry of Finance aims to implement corrective measures to meet the criteria by 2025, though time remains tight for action.
KTM seeks restructuring amid financial troubles
The renowned Upper Austrian motorbike manufacturer KTM AG is filing for restructuring proceedings under self-administration to address liquidity shortages, as reported by Der Standard. Facing a high cash requirement of several hundred million euros, KTM will temporarily shut down production in January and February, reducing its workforce by 300 positions. CEO Stefan Pierer described the plan as a “pit stop for the future” and vowed to preserve his “life’s work.”
Calls to tackle women’s poverty gain momentum
Caritas and the Chamber of Labour (AK) have called for urgent structural reforms to combat women’s poverty in Austria. During a press conference highlighted by ORF, leaders emphasised the need for wage transparency, expanded childcare, and recognition of unpaid care work. Caritas President Nora Tödtling-Musenbichler argued that poverty stems from deeply rooted gender inequalities, while AK President Renate Anderl stressed the political will required to implement these changes.
SPÖ and ÖVP weigh coalition talks with FPÖ in Styria
The Freedom Party (FPÖ) has initiated talks with the Austrian People’s Party (ÖVP) and the Social Democratic Party (SPÖ) to form a new government in Styria following its electoral win. Die Presse reported that while the ÖVP remains cautious about partnering with the FPÖ, the SPÖ has shown greater openness, sparking internal debates. Final decisions are expected by next week.
Tyrolean climber makes history on El Capitan
Barbara Zangerl, a Tyrolean climber, became the first woman to successfully “flash” the Freerider route on Yosemite’s El Capitan without falling. ORF noted that Zangerl’s achievement, scaling the 1,000-metre route on her first attempt, marks a milestone in climbing history. She described the accomplishment as a testament to mental strength and attention to detail.
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Public sector salary agreement reached, strike averted
A 3.5 percent pay increase for Austria’s public sector workers has been finalised, averting a planned mass demonstration. Der Standard detailed the agreement, which affects 250,000 federal employees, with socially staggered raises ranging from €82.40 to €437.80. Trade unions praised the deal as a step toward maintaining purchasing power.
Electricity use leads police to cannabis plantation
A high electricity bill alerted police to a cannabis plantation in a vacant building in Wiener Neustadt. As ORF reported, police discovered the operation during a large-scale search involving drones and service dogs. While the suspect escaped, authorities continued investigating the criminal organisation behind the plantation.
Vienna Airport to decide on third runway by 2026
The long-debated third runway at Vienna Airport will see a decision in 2026, pending a legal review. Despite environmental concerns, the airport is also pushing ahead with a €420 million expansion of Terminal 3 to improve passenger experience, with completion targeted for 2029, according to ORF.
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Burgenland mayors demand financial relief
Budget forecasts showing lower municipal revenue have led Burgenland mayors to demand financial support from the state. Der Standard reported that SPÖ leaders attribute the financial strain to federal policies, while ÖVP officials criticise the state government’s handling of resources. Discussions include new funding mechanisms and property transfers.
Graz invests €230 million in tram network
The city of Graz is dedicating nearly €230 million to expanding its tram system, including a new depot and 15 extra-long trams. According to ORF, this is Holding Graz’s largest investment, aiming to modernise public transport infrastructure by 2029 while prioritising sustainability and urban accessibility.
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Publish date : 2024-11-26 21:54:00
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The post A roundup of the latest news on Wednesday first appeared on Love Europe.
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Author : love-europe
Publish date : 2024-11-27 08:27:33
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