A Special Probe on Tourism Association's Finances: A Buzzing Power Struggle in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern
Investigative Body Needs to Scrutinize Operations Within the Tourism Association - Investigation Panel to Evaluate Advancements in Tourism Industry
Let's dive into the thick of things
A heated power struggle is brewing in the state parliament of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, as a special subcommittee of the Economic Affairs Committee deliberates on potential financial misdeeds within the Tourism Association and whether the imposed penalties were justified. The decision to establish this temporary special committee was initiated by CDU, Greens, and FDP, but the ruling factions of SPD and Left somehow managed to pass their own application using their majority.
The coalition's appointment decision has garnered widespread criticism from the opposition parties who argue that the move aims to shield the Ministry of Economics from political accountability. They assert that the coalition is less interested in a thorough investigation and more focused on protecting its own ministry.
The Great Grilling Sessions
The decisions were preceded by a lengthy expert discussion lasting over two hours, where representatives from the association and the Ministry of Economics were present. Despite prolonged questioning, many questions remain unanswered, such as why the association was abruptly denied state subsidies by the ministry. It's known that there were inconsistencies in the annual financial statements, but it's yet unclear whether the conclusions drawn were appropriate.
The Puppetmaster Unveiled
CDU faction leader Daniel Peters sharply criticized the Ministry of Economics' actions. He suspects that it was about sabotaging a well-functioning association that has been around for 30 years and getting rid of unwanted individuals.
Life Support for the Association
The departure of the highly respected association manager Tobias Woitendorf was a condition for the state to provide funds again in April, thus averting imminent insolvency and ensuring that employees received their wages. However, this does not guarantee long-term financing.
The Presiding Lady's Plea
Landtag President and President of the Tourism Association Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Birgit Hesse, appealed to the Ministry of Economics to swiftly bring clarity about the future structures and financing of tourism promotion. "The employees of the association need a perspective, and this is essential for marketing at the beginning of the main season," said Hesse. The managing board is not opposed to a fresh start, she emphasized. It's important to work together to establish tourism structures fit for the future "that are of immense importance to a state where tourism is part of its very DNA."
Economic Minister Wolf Blank's Take
According to Economic Minister Wolfgang Blank (independent), the primary objective was to ensure the association's credibility as a recipient of promotional funds, safeguarding the professional livelihoods of employees. "We've thrown a lifeline into the water. Now we need to build a boat sturdy enough for long voyages," said Blank.
Possible Monetary Misdoings
The MV Tourism Association is an independent, yet nearly entirely state-funded organization. The institutional funding has been shrouded in controversy. In February, the Ministry of Economics halted payments and submitted a report after discovering irregularities in the use of funds. No specifics have been divulged yet, but it's reported that no instances of personal enrichment were involved.
Authorities in Schwerin have confirmed an ongoing investigation regarding suspicions of subsidy fraud. The outcome of the investigation is still pending, with a strong focus on the creation of reserves totaling 1.27 million euros, which were formally not permitted.
Tourism: The Lifeblood of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern's Economy
After a significant slump due to the corona crisis, domestic tourism rebounded swiftly. According to the State Statistical Office, in 2024, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern recorded the second-highest figures for guest arrivals and overnight stays since reunification. In the preceding year, 8.0 million guests arrived and booked 32.9 million overnight stays. Only in the record year 2019 were the figures slightly higher, by about four percent.
The special subcommittee, composed of members from CDU, Greens, and FDP, is examining potential financial misconduct within the Tourism Association and the validity of the imposed sanctions.
CDU's faction leader Daniel Peters has criticized the Ministry of Economics' actions, suspecting it as an attempt to sabotage the association and remove unwanted individuals.
Despite prolonged questioning during the great grilling sessions, many questions remain unanswered, such as why the association was denied state subsidies by the ministry and whether the conclusions drawn were appropriate.
The Tourism Association's future structures and financing are a subject of discussion, with landtag president Birgit Hesse appealing for the Ministry of Economics to bring decisive clarity.
