Regarding the future of the so-called “Pension at 63,” the Union parliamentary group is urging Labor Minister Bärbel Bas (SPD) to quickly submit her draft laws for the pension package. Stefan Nacke (CDU), a social policy expert, considers transitional periods during the planned elimination of the “Pension at 63” to be “a matter of course.”
Nacke told the “Tagesspiegel” (Sunday edition) that “Bas is now responsible for presenting the draft laws promptly. It is time to begin the parliamentary process so that we can seriously and professionally examine concrete texts and phrasing.” He stressed that “the urgently needed reforms require detailed work and less production of generalized headlines.”
Nacke expressed openness to the suggestion made by Bas regarding a transition period before abolishing the tax-free pension available after 45 years of contributions. He affirmed that the black-red coalition would continue the legislative process, building on the success of the Age Security Commission. He noted that the Labor Minister signaling coalition loyalty was a positive sign, adding that the ball was now in her court. The Union is ready to agree to transition periods for the planned cancellation of the “Pension at 63.”
“Granting citizens security for their life planning is completely undeniable-we will agree on a legally adequate timeframe without losing sight of the intended effect of the reforms,” Nacke stated.
The CDU social policy expert also addressed the issue of sick leave. He argued that viable solutions needed to be found that work for employees, general practitioners, and employers. He suggested that the discussion around sick time could also be used to promote greater awareness of prevention, healthy work practices, and responsible lifestyles.
