In 2022, Styrian politicians commissioned studies and expert opinions worth 3.95 million euros. Now there is criticism of the award. Above all, there is the accusation of a lack of transparency, and the FPÖ also sees a lot of potential for savings.
The state of Styria is a safe bank for lucrative orders, as many external strategists know. And that despite the fact that there are many qualified experts in the departments of the state government. Last year, too, the black and red politicians dug deep into the tax coffers to commission various studies. A total of around 3.95 million euros flowed from the individual departments for consulting services that were purchased. Contractors included notaries, lawyers, environmental specialists, advertising agencies and marketing specialists. At the top of the consulting pyramid is ÖVP Governor Christopher Drexler, his departments spent around 1.36 million euros in 2022. Then comes the red Minister for the Environment Ursula Lackner with around 866,000 euros. In the health sector (Regional Councilor Juliane Bogner-Strauß) almost 600,000 euros were incurred. Striking in the Drexler department: For the buyback deal of Energie-Steiermark, the state needed external economic and legal advice for 544,840 euros. “It was about specific expertise on international stock corporation law and the valuation of stock corporations,” says ÖVP HR Councilor Werner Amon, explaining the issues. “Some studies are needed that identify potential for renewable energy in Styria,” explains environmental officer Lackner. There has been criticism of the free contract award of consulting services by politicians for a long time – above all there is the accusation of lack of transparency. Since 2019, the State Audit Office has also been examining procurement practice in Styria. FPÖ leader Mario Kunasek also sees “enormous savings potential” because the generous orders clearly go too far.
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