Free kindergarten: criticism and approval – salzburg.ORF.at
politics
The free kindergarten, which was unanimously approved by the state parliament, has met with criticism from mayors and approval from others. The President of the Salzburg Association of Municipalities and Mayor of St. Johann sees a “rush shot” that has not been thought through. There was no talk with the municipalities as legal entities.
According to the mayor of St. Johann (ÖVP), there will be no more staff even with the free kindergarten. He sees the current step – the state is taking over the 13 million euros for the morning kindergarten for three to six year olds – as a missed opportunity. According to Mitterer, one should have proceeded in a more considered and structured manner.
Schwarzach head of office enthusiastic
Mayor Andreas Haitzer (SPÖ) in Schwarzach (Pongau) says he very much welcomes the free kindergarten. The model is “very important”, the free childcare offered, including in the crèches.
Some fear even more pressure
Robert Bukovc, Mayor of Bergheim (Flachgau), also likes the innovation. Bukovc adds that women should be able to return to work, and that families have to earn a living when prices are high. The Walser Mayor Joachim Maislinger (ÖVP) says he is happy for everyone who has children. But he also expects that the pressure on the municipalities to provide more kindergarten places will increase.