Christoph Thoma (ÖVP / Vorarlberg), 976th Session of the Federal Council, 09:47
- VIENNA – A spirited debate unfolded in the Federal Council as Christoph Thoma (ÖVP,Vorarlberg) passionately defended the European Union and its policies,drawing sharp criticism and interjections from members...
- Thoma began by expressing his enthusiasm for having a "motivated Minister of Europe" who is committed to the European ideal.
- He anticipated criticism from Federal Councilor Spanring (FPÖ/NÖ) regarding the EU's handling of the coronavirus pandemic,a point he expected Spanring to raise shortly.
Thoma Defends EU,Clashes with FPÖ in Federal Council Debate
Table of Contents
- Thoma Defends EU,Clashes with FPÖ in Federal Council Debate
- Thoma’s Defense of the EU: A Q&A on the Federal Council Debate
- Why did Christoph Thoma defend the EU in the Federal Council?
- What specific criticisms did Thoma address?
- What positive aspects of the EU did Thoma highlight?
- How did Thoma respond to criticisms about the Green Deal?
- What was Thoma’s stance on the Asylum and Migration Pact and European Security?
- How did the audience react to Thoma’s remarks?
- What happened after Thoma’s speech?
- What is the significance of the “Note” at the end of the article?
VIENNA – A spirited debate unfolded in the Federal Council as Christoph Thoma (ÖVP,Vorarlberg) passionately defended the European Union and its policies,drawing sharp criticism and interjections from members of the FPÖ (freedom Party of Austria).
thoma Praises Europe Minister, Criticizes FPÖ’s Stance
Thoma began by expressing his enthusiasm for having a “motivated Minister of Europe” who is committed to the European ideal. He then directly addressed Federal Councilor And (FPÖ/Stmk.),expressing shock at And’s speech and accusing the FPÖ of spreading ”conspiracy theories” against the EU,particularly regarding the alleged abolition of cash. “In wich world do you live?” Thoma exclaimed,triggering reactions from across the chamber.
He anticipated criticism from Federal Councilor Spanring (FPÖ/NÖ) regarding the EU’s handling of the coronavirus pandemic,a point he expected Spanring to raise shortly. Thoma characterized the FPÖ’s frequent interjections as a sign of their inability to provide substantive counterarguments. “You can really tell when they no longer have any answers, they will be loud,” he remarked.
Green Deal and Brexit discussed
The Green Deal was another point of contention. Thoma asserted that those who deny climate change “have not yet arrived in the 21st century,” a remark directed at members on the right.He acknowledged shortcomings in the initial Green Deal, explaining the need for the Clean Industrial Deal to better consider economic factors.
Thoma also addressed the issue of Brexit, stating that the British have “long as” regretted their decision to leave the EU and are now facing “massive problems.” He attributed this to populism that ultimately harmed the country, drawing applause from members of the ÖVP, SPÖ (Social Democratic Party of Austria), and the Greens.
Benefits of EU Membership Highlighted
Drawing on his experience as a resident of Vorarlberg,a border region,Thoma emphasized the benefits of EU membership,particularly for regions bordering non-EU countries like liechtenstein and Switzerland. He cited the Erasmus plus program as a positive example, noting his own experience teaching in Italy and Germany through the program. “These are great models, from which our children and grandchildren will also benefit from,” he said.
Thoma condemned those who “solidarize with Russia” and “glorify” President Putin, stating his incomprehension of their views.He affirmed his commitment to democracy, freedom, and a united Europe, highlighting the 30 years of benefits Austria has experienced as an EU member.
Asylum and Migration Pact, European Security
Turning to the asylum and migration pact, Thoma praised the work of colleague Magnus Brunner, suggesting that Brunner is helping to make Europe safer. He also referenced the white book on European security policy as crucial insurance for the future, given uncertainties surrounding figures like Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin.
Thoma concluded by reiterating his commitment to the european union and expressing gratitude for the presence of a minister who is fighting for the EU. His remarks were met with applause from members of the ÖVP and SPÖ, as well as Federal Councilor Sumah-vospernik (NEOS/W).
Further Debate
Following Thoma’s remarks, President Dr. Andrea Eder-Gitschthaler recognized Federal Councilor Sebastian Forstner to speak next. The debate continued with various interjections and points of order.
Thoma’s Defense of the EU: A Q&A on the Federal Council Debate
Why did Christoph Thoma defend the EU in the Federal Council?
Christoph Thoma (ÖVP, Vorarlberg) delivered a passionate defense of the European Union and its policies during a debate in the Federal Council. He was motivated by a commitment to the european ideal and a desire to counter criticisms levied against the EU by members of the FPÖ (Freedom Party of Austria).
What specific criticisms did Thoma address?
Thoma addressed several key points of contention:
FPÖ’s Stance: He criticized the FPÖ for spreading “conspiracy theories” against the EU, particularly regarding the alleged abolition of cash. He also characterized their frequent interjections as a sign of their inability to provide substantive counterarguments.
Climate Change Denial: He asserted that those who deny climate change “have not yet arrived in the 21st century,” directly calling out members on the right.
Brexit: Thoma stated that the British have “long as” regretted their decision to leave the EU, attributing it to populism.
What positive aspects of the EU did Thoma highlight?
Thoma emphasized the benefits of EU membership, including:
Benefits for Border Regions: Drawing on his experience as a resident of Vorarlberg (a border region), he highlighted the advantages for regions bordering non-EU countries like Liechtenstein and Switzerland.
Erasmus+ Program: He cited the Erasmus+ program as a positive exmaple, sharing his personal experiences teaching in Italy and Germany through the program. He believed this program would benefit future generations.
Commitment to democracy, Freedom, and european Unity: thoma expressed incomprehension of those who “solidarize wiht Russia” and “glorify” President Putin, reaffirming his dedication to thes values and highlighting 30 years of benefits Austria has experienced as an EU member.
How did Thoma respond to criticisms about the Green Deal?
Thoma acknowledged shortcomings in the initial Green Deal and explained the need for the Clean Industrial Deal to better consider economic factors. He positioned the need for a new deal in the context of acknowledging potential issues with the original plan.
What was Thoma’s stance on the Asylum and Migration Pact and European Security?
Thoma praised the work of his colleague Magnus Brunner, suggesting that Brunner is helping to make Europe safer.He also referenced the white book on European security policy as crucial insurance, given uncertainties surrounding figures like Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin.
How did the audience react to Thoma’s remarks?
His remarks were met with applause from members of the ÖVP and SPÖ (Social Democratic Party of Austria), as well as Federal Councilor Sumah-vospernik (NEOS/W).
What happened after Thoma’s speech?
Following Thoma’s remarks, President Dr. Andrea Eder-Gitschthaler recognized Federal Councilor Sebastian Forstner to speak next,and the debate continued with various interjections and points of order.
What is the significance of the “Note” at the end of the article?
The “Note” stating that the speech has not yet been authorized in accordance with Section 65 (2) GO-BR indicates the speech is subject to review and official approval before it becomes a public record.