Austrian Red Cross Faces scrutiny Over Pandemic Consulting fees, Leader Defends Transparency
The Austrian Red Cross (ÖRK) is currently under increased scrutiny from the Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ), which is demanding detailed facts regarding consulting fees paid out during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the political pressure, the organization’s federal rescue commander remains calm, asserting a commitment to full transparency.
The FPÖ’s inquiry centers on approximately €416,000 spent on consulting services, and also the €10,000 monthly net remuneration received by the federal rescue commander for a 50% full-time equivalent position.These figures have been submitted as a parliamentary question to the Ministry of Health.
“We are a very clear organization,” the commander stated to the Austrian Press Agency (APA). He emphasized that a comprehensive report detailing services rendered is already available, and the ÖRK is subject to regular and rigorous oversight. The organization’s funding model, largely reliant on local authorities and social insurance contributions due to its extensive role in social and healthcare, disaster relief, and other vital services, necessitates this level of accountability.
The commander clarified that the remuneration received was not a direct payment to him, but rather to the Red Cross as compensation for his and his office’s availability to the Ministry of Health during the initial phase of the pandemic in early 2020. “I had no additional income,” he affirmed, adding that the arrangement was based on the Red Cross Act.
He expressed unconcern over the FPÖ’s focus on the ÖRK,noting the party has recently increased its criticism of the broader “NGO business,” alleging a lack of transparency and wasteful spending. “This is public money, we have to be accountable for it,” he stated. A detailed final report submitted to the ministry covering the period from February to June 2020 meticulously lists every hour of staff work. “We are proud of how much we have achieved there,” he added.
The commander acknowledged that the Red cross engages in activities that may not align with the FPÖ’s political agenda, specifically mentioning the organization’s work on integration and fostering good coexistence within Austria.He underscored the vital role Civil Society Organizations – The commander highlighted the importance of organizations like environmental NGOs, village beautification associations, and brass bands in contributing to the fabric of Austrian society.
He further highlighted the power of Volunteer Work – The commander emphasized the significant impact of volunteer contributions and donations – stating that these resources multiply the investment of the public sector,a unique capability of non-profit organizations.
Reflecting on Austria’s handling of the Corona Pandemic – The commander offered a critical assessment, noting a swift initial response but a slower recognition of the second surge in infections.
He explained the complex balancing act faced by authorities, acknowledging conflicts between protecting vulnerable groups and addressing economic, political, social, and psychological interests. He specifically pointed to the debate surrounding mandatory vaccination as a catalyst for the growth of the Anti-Vaccination Community.
Despite these criticisms, the commander strongly praised the role of Science – He stated that scientific advancements, including virus sequencing, rapid test development, and vaccines, were crucial in saving lives and preventing a worse outcome.
