While the Chamber agrees with the priorities set by the government, it would have welcomed a more “ambitious” approach to certain topics, such as housing, the director of the Chamber of Skilled Trades and Crafts said on Tuesday morning.
As for the Integrated National Energy and Climate Plan (PNEC), the Chamber criticises a lack of details and transparency, stating that the current budget documents do not reveal what the earmarked €1.9 billion are to be invested in.
Chamber representatives also pointed out that the pandemic has not only left its mark on the state finances, but also on craft businesses. Despite the coronavirus aids, which proved to be “very useful”, 43% of craft businesses still had to use up at least some of their savings.
In view of the “economy of tomorrow”, the Chamber hopes for more support from the State in terms of energy and digital transition.
Another priority would be to enhance the status of the self-employed. The Chamber of Skilled Trades and Crafts has put forward several proposals dealing with both social security and labour law.
The responsible authorities have yet to react to these proposals. The Chamber of Skilled Trades and Crafts stressed that it would welcome the opportunity to have a dialogue with the government on this point.
