Chimney Sweeps & Governor Doskozil: New Year Wishes

by Mark Thompson

Eisenstadt, December 28, 2025

Burgenland Governor Welcomes Chimney Sweepers for Conventional New Year’s Greetings

A longstanding tradition continued as Governor Hans Peter Doskozil received New Year’s wishes from the Burgenland Chimney Sweepers’ Guild, highlighting the importance of their work and ongoing collaboration.

  • A delegation from the Chimney Sweepers’ Guild visited Governor Doskozil at his country house.
  • The governor emphasized the strong relationship between the guild and the state of Burgenland, citing the implementation of a minimum wage for chimney sweeps.
  • The guild is actively investing in training to address staff shortages and secure the future of the profession.
  • Currently, 23 chimney sweeping companies operate in Burgenland, with seven apprentices and six career changers in training.

Governor Hans Peter Doskozil welcomed a delegation led by State Guild Master Anton Zolles to his office in the country house, continuing a yearly tradition. “visiting the Burgenland chimney sweeps’ guild in the country house has now become a tradition. I am pleased that there is always the chance for a conversation and an exchange of ideas,” Doskozil stated.He expressed gratitude for the services chimney sweeps provide to the Burgenland population throughout the year and wished them an accident-free 2026.

A Partnership Built on Understanding

doskozil underscored the positive working relationship between the chimney sweeps guild and the state of Burgenland, pointing to the agreed-upon minimum wage for chimney sweeps as a concrete example of their collaborative efforts, achieved during negotiations on the sweeping law.

What is the role of chimney sweeps in modern fire safety? Preventive fire protection and safeguarding lives and property are the primary duties of Burgenland chimney sweeps. The guild actively invests in training to address staff shortages and ensure a skilled workforce.

Securing the Future of the Trade

Burgenland currently has 23 chimney sweeping companies in operation. The guild is proactively addressing workforce challenges with seven apprentices and six individuals undergoing career changes currently in training, ensuring a skilled workforce for years to come.

A delegation from the Chimney Sweepers’ Guild brought new Year’s wishes to Governor Doskozil: (from left to right) Journeyman Chimney Sweeper Kai Grieer, State Guild Master Anton Zolles, Carola Semeliker (Burgenland Chamber of Commerce, Trade and Crafts Division), Governor Hans Peter Doskozil, guild Master Deputy Roland Grieer.
Close-up of Governor Doskozil and State Guild Master Anton Zolles
Governor Doskozil and State Guild Master Anton Zolles during the New Year’s greetings.

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