North Rhine-Westphalia Health Minister Karl-Josef Laumann (CDU) has praised the nursing care reform proposed by Federal Minister Nina Warken (CDU). He told the “Rheinische Post” (Friday edition) that the legislative draft represents a pragmatic and sensible path forward for stabilizing contributions to nursing insurance, stating this measure is urgently necessary given the current economic climate. According to Laumann, the proposal effectively spreads the financial burdens across a wide range of people.
However, the CDU politician also raised a significant critique regarding the bill: the planned suspension of collective bargaining agreements for nursing home staff. He added, “What I see as critical is the intended cessation of the collective bargaining agreement principle. Caregivers also have a right to be paid properly for their work” and affirmed that his party would be closely examining these regulations. Laumann noted that these agreements had historically led to a significant increase in compensation within the nursing sector.
While acknowledging that the changes may lead to restrictions in nursing insurance benefits, the CDU politician emphasized that the fundamental purpose remains intact: vulnerable individuals will continue to receive support to better manage the costs associated with their dependency.
