German minister opposes pension cuts for family caregivers
Translated from German, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Hesse's Health Minister Diana Stolz opposes planned pension cuts for family caregivers.
- She supports the federal government's initiative to forgo savings on pension claims for those providing care.
- Stolz emphasizes that family caregivers play a vital societal role and should receive support, not further burdens.
Hesse's Health Minister Diana Stolz has voiced strong opposition to any potential pension cuts for family caregivers, aligning with a similar stance from the federal government. Stolz stated that such measures would send "the completely wrong signal" and undermine the crucial role these individuals play in society.
I don't want to save on family caregivers, on their pensions.
Federal Health Minister Carsten Linnemann (CDU) had previously indicated his intention to avoid savings related to the pensions of family caregivers. Stolz welcomed this initiative, emphasizing that while the long-term care insurance system requires a solid financial foundation, reducing the pension entitlements of those who provide care is the wrong approach.
This would be the completely wrong signal.
"Millions of people care with heart and responsibility in their own homes, thus holding families and our society together," Stolz remarked. She stressed that caregiving is a vital societal task that deserves support and should not be financed by placing additional burdens on the caregivers themselves.
Millions of people care with heart and responsibility in their own homes, thus holding families and our society together.
Stolz further elaborated that individuals who care for family members are performing an important societal function. They deserve backing and should not face further financial strain. Her comments underscore a commitment to recognizing and supporting the unpaid labor of family caregivers, ensuring they are not financially penalized for their dedication.
Anyone who cares for relatives is taking on an important societal task, deserves support and no further burdens.
Originally published by Die Zeit in German. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.