Police Union Criticizes Planned Job Cuts in Hamburg Interior Ministry
Hamburg, June 25 – The budget plans of the Hamburg Interior Ministry are drawing criticism from police unions and the opposition. Although the budget is set to increase by 100 million euros over the next two years, administrative positions are slated for elimination, sparking concerns about the impact on public safety.
The German Police Union (DPolG) fears for the future of the mounted police unit and the police orchestra, despite no current plans for cuts in these areas. However, the most significant concern revolves around the planned reductions in administrative staff.
Concerns Over Administrative Job Cuts
Jan Reinecke of the Bund Deutscher Kriminalbeamter (Association of German Criminal Investigators) stated that cutting administrative positions could lead to uniformed officers being pulled from street duty to handle desk work. He emphasized the urgent need for employed forensic technicians and assistants.
The Interior Ministry has not specified the exact number of positions to be cut. However, it highlights the significant personnel growth in recent years and assures that no positions will be eliminated in the so-called operational service, which includes uniformed officers. The ministry also plans substantial investments in drone technology, civil protection, modern IT, and a new police training center.
Opposition Voices Concerns for Internal Security
Dennis Gladiator, CDU internal affairs expert, remains unconvinced. He sees gaps in operational resources due to the elimination of the helicopter squadron and generally believes that internal security is no longer being treated as a priority. The AfD also expressed concerns about the police’s operational capabilities.
Future of Police Helicopters and Investments
Hamburg’s police helicopters, Libelle 1 and 2, will soon be retired and replaced by modern drones. This change, along with other planned investments, aims to modernize the police force’s capabilities.
Additional Information
The Gewerkschaft der Polizei (GdP) Hamburg had previously warned of massive savings before the Senate’s budget meeting, with reports suggesting cuts of up to 20 million euros.
This topic was broadcast on NDR 90.3 | NDR 90.3 Aktuell | June 25, 2026 | 13:00.
Source: NDR.de
