Janine Wissler Demands Shareholders Pay Back Billions in Dividends to Secure Jobs

Leftist leader Janine Wissler is calling for Volkswagen shareholders to refund billions in dividends to protect jobs amidst the threat of factory closures and redundancies.

Wissler Criticizes Volkswagen Shareholders

In an interview with the “Rheinische Post”, Wissler criticized Volkswagen’s shareholders, stating that it’s “incredibly shabby” that the company paid 4.5 billion euros in dividends while claiming it cannot raise five billion euros to maintain jobs. She emphasized that major shareholders, such as the Porsche Piëch clan, should be held responsible.

Four-Point Plan to Secure Jobs in the Car Industry

Wissler presented a four-point plan to secure jobs in the car industry, which includes a state guarantee for further training for workers, promotion of electric car production, and the development of modern trains and buses.

Financial Participation from Corporations and Shareholders

Wissler also called for increased financial participation from corporations and shareholders in the necessary restructuring of the industry. If necessary, she stated that expulsions and state investments would also need to be considered.

CDU Parliamentary Group Calls for Quick Information

The CDU parliamentary group in the Lower Saxony state parliament has requested swift information from the Ministry of Economics regarding the Volkswagen crisis. Economic policy spokesman Marcel Scharrelmann emphasized the importance of providing comprehensive information in a timely manner.

SPD Parliamentary Group Supports Urgent Action

The SPD parliamentary group has expressed support for the urgency of the matter, with deputy parliamentary group leader Christoph Bratmann stating that Economy Minister Olaf Lies (SPD) has announced his availability for a meeting. A special committee meeting on the current situation at Volkswagen is scheduled for Tuesday.