"Coming too early": Holetschek rejects Wissing's proposal - and receives criticism from the Bavarian FDP

Created: 05/18/2022, 06:25

By: Katarina Amtmann

Klaus Holetschek rejects a suggestion from Volker Wissing (symbol image).

© IMAGO / Sammy Minkoff

Is it still necessary to wear masks on public transport?

If the FDP has its way, no.

But Bavaria's Minister of Health warns: Corona is not over.

Munich – The corona numbers in Germany are falling.

In Bavaria, for example, the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) reported the lowest value since mid-January on Monday.

The numbers should, however, be interpreted with caution.

Corona mask requirement in public transport: Holetschek rejects Wissing initiative

There are always calls for even more relaxation of the corona rules.

But Bavaria's Minister of Health has spoken out in favor of retaining the mask requirement on buses and trains.

Klaus Holetschek rejected the initiative by Federal Transport Minister Volker Wissing (FDP).

“The pandemic is not over yet.

The infection situation is currently easing, but it would be too early to abolish the obligation to wear masks on buses and trains at this point in time," Holetschek told

on Monday .

Corona mask requirement in public transport: Bavaria demands retention over the summer

He also told the radio station: “Bavaria is therefore asking the federal government to maintain the mask requirement in local and long-distance public transport – even over the summer.

Wearing the mask continues to play an important role, especially in places like buses and trains, where large numbers of people come together who often cannot keep a minimum distance.

Wearing a mask in local and long-distance transport not only serves to protect oneself: it also helps to protect other people who are at increased risk of serious illness from infection.”

Bus and train: Transport Minister for the end of the mask requirement

All news and stories from Bavaria can now also be found on our brand new Facebook page Merkur Bayern.

Corona mask requirement in public transport: FDP Bayern boss Hagen calls for relaxation

Martin Hagen, head of the FDP in Bavaria, has a different opinion on this: “The easing so far has all proven its worth and the corona numbers have not increased, but are declining significantly.

In the future, citizens will also be able to protect themselves with masks on buses and trains if they want to.

But you shouldn't oblige them to do it any longer," he told

.

FDP politician Volker Wissing caused a stir with statements on energy consumption on the Internet