We are outraged by the attacks on emergency personnel from the fire department, police, and rescue services in Germany on New Year's Eve. In Saarland as well, firefighters were hindered by revelers during firefighting operations, and a policewoman was bitten. The most recent incident, in which a paramedic in Nunkirchen was attacked and injured by a rioter, leaves us speechless. These attacks must not go unpunished. We say clearly: "No to violence against emergency personnel!" The Young Free Voters Saar demand harsh penalties for criminals guilty of physical attacks on emergency responders. Fireworks have been a tradition on New Year's Eve for centuries and are therefore not a new custom. For this reason, we rely on personal responsibility and do not want to have fireworks banned on New Year's Eve. Instead of disputing the discussion about a fireworks ban, politicians should address the real problem. It is not the fireworks that are the problem, but the lack of law enforcement and integration gaps. A nationwide fireworks ban does not tackle the real issue.
Perpetrators who do not deter emergency responders and officials and attack them reject the rule of law. Those who reject the rule of law must face the full force of the law. The safety of emergency personnel must be guaranteed at all times. "We demand that the penalties for assaults on emergency responders be fully enforced and that there be a thorough review of the failed migration policy. Anyone who attacks emergency responders on duty attacks us all. Furthermore, we call for equipping emergency personnel with appropriate camera technology to facilitate the prosecution of perpetrators," said Brandon Lee Posse, State Chairman of the Young Free Voters Saarland.
