Georg Cremer, the former chief of Caritas, is strongly pushing back against the criticism from regional state premiers regarding the reform suggestions put forward by the pension commission. In an interview with “Focus”, he argued that the proposed reforms essentially give a gift to high earners while shifting the costs onto the general public.
Cremer contended that the option for an unsubsidized full pension after 45 years of contributions disproportionately benefits the wealthy. According to him, those who qualify for this full entitlement already receive significantly higher pensions, even accounting for the long period of insurance. He pointed out that many working individuals with intensive professional demands do not reach the required 45-year milestone, stating, “The so-called roof repairman simply does not qualify.”
He added that since the rule’s implementation, nearly three million new pensioners have taken advantage of it. Many of these are healthy and well-qualified workers who chose to retire voluntarily, not because they were exhausted. Because retirees are allowed to supplement their income, an incentive exists to retire as early as possible.
Regarding those unable to work until the standard retirement age due to health issues, Cremer defended the commission’s approach, noting that the commission proposed hardship provisions, including individualized health checks. He concluded that the commission, therefore, was “not socially blind.”
Furthermore, Cremer rejected the argument from the state premiers that the regulation appropriately acknowledges a lifetime of work. When asked if someone who has worked for 42 years deserves less respect, he countered, asking the rhetorical question himself. He deemed the 45-year threshold arbitrary and morally exaggerated.
