Wednesday, February 9, 2022

Q-and-A: Germany: 9 Feb 2022

 1.  Non-German Jennifer Morgan (Green Peace) hired by the German Foreign Ministry?

Well, ok....this is the public statement....Baerbock hired Morgan is be the Foreign Ministry climate 'activist'.  This has probably drawn a good bit of commentary that Morgan is NOT a German, and there were probably a hundred qualified Germans for this government position.  

If you were asking me how long this appointment will last....I'd take a guess that various complaints will be lodged, and Morgan will be lucky to last 12 months.

The fact that Robert Habeck (Green Party) is the head of the government 'Climate Action' division?  Well.....it is a bit odd that the Foreign Ministry hired Morgan, and not the Climate Action office.  Possible disagreements to arise here?  You'd just sit and wonder if Baerbock talked to Habeck over this idea.  

2.  This EU developmental fund of 724 billion Euro being a non-open document?

Recently, folks stood up and asked for insight to the EU fund, and asking the finance arm of the German government (who has access) to let them look at the funding.  Neither the EU or German government appear willing to make the documentation visible.  Anyone's guess to why....but it's going to be challenged in court at some point, and I suspect it'll be a funny observations moment.

3.  What really happens if the natural gas pipeline (Nord Stream II) is not turned on?

Consequences?  There is the original pipe (1970s) which would normally bring natural gas across the southern path of Europe, to Germany.....which presently is seeing a decrease of flow (just to let the Germans worry a bit).  For the companies involved (both Russian/German)....it's a serious profit-hit.  

The biggest worry is that Gazprom might decide to trim their 35-percent natural gas flow into Germany by half, and create a slight panic.  Between increased Norwegian natural gas flow, and maybe some US sales....problems could be avoided.  But all of this would lead to higher natural gas rates, and frankly....it's way over what the average guy can really afford.

4.  Talks between the EU and Germany over energy efficiency regulations for future buildings/homes?

Well....all the two will say is 'yes, we are talking about more regulations'.

What's worrying the public is that some regulations might affect older buildings and suddenly create a value-decrease....unless you spent more money to upgrade.  In simple terms, your house which you assume is worth 350,000 Euro.....might lose 20k of value unless you do X, Y and Z.  

5.  What's the Covid PCR test cost in Austria?  

Six Euro.  

Germany?  Between 49 and 69 Euro.  

Why the difference?  You'd best not ask.....it just leads back to the German government and more questions that center on 2020 with decisions made then.

6.  Polling showing massive frustration with typical FDP voters over how the party is functioning with the SPD-Green government coalition?

Yes.....only one-third of the typical FDP voters are supportive, and it's a pretty bad position to be in for the party leadership. 

No comments: