Discussing whether the migrant referendum should happen on Election Day is a distraction. It is costly, and it won’t calm the public mood. This sentiment came through in remarks aimed at the prime minister and the deputy prime minister, delivered during a press briefing in Malbork.
The speaker also spoke directly to the leaders of the country, noting that travel across Poland reveals a different priority among people than the debate over the referendum. The prevailing concern, he argued, is the cost of living and the pressure on household budgets as prices rise across essential goods and services.
Inflation remains a central topic. Yesterday’s announcement confirmed that the inflation rate is in double digits again, a reminder that price pressures are not fading. The speaker pointed to the broader impact of rising costs, stressing the need to consider how families are responding to these changes and what it means for their day-to-day finances.
Inflation rising?
Analysts are widely predicting another uptick in inflation in the coming months, and the speaker urged the audience to consider how those forecasts will affect everyday purchases and long-term planning.
Public concern about food prices was highlighted. The argument was made that some staples have become more expensive, while others have shown relative stability but still contribute to a higher overall bill for households. The discussion extended to the cost of dining out and other routine expenses, illustrating how price movements ripple through family budgets.
Attention was drawn to the affordability of essential items such as sugar, with notable year-over-year increases cited. The message underscored the real effect of price changes on households, especially those living on fixed incomes or with limited savings.
The speaker also touched on the rental market, noting how housing costs affect the use of apartments and the overall cost of living for families. Rent and housing expenses were described as significant elements shaping the balance between income and essential expenditures, particularly for people who are renting rather than owning their homes.
In addition, there was mention of broader leisure-related expenses, including how families allocate funds for recreation and travel. The concern was that high inflation could limit opportunities for parents to take children on vacations, which many see as vital for well-being and development. The question was put to the audience: with inflation at these levels, how will families manage vacations and safety during uncertain times?
The broader point was that family safety is tied to costs, and rising prices can strain the ability to provide basic security and stability for loved ones.
Extreme poverty?
The discussion turned to poverty, with reference to recent data showing a substantial number of Poles living in extreme poverty. The speaker asked the audience whether they understand what extreme poverty entails and how it affects daily life, including the welfare of children who are among the most vulnerable. The figures cited were attributed to a national statistical source, underscoring the seriousness of the issue for society as a whole.
The question was raised about the relationship between rising prices and the number of people experiencing extreme poverty, and whether inflation helps or hurts those in the most precarious situations. The importance of basic needs—rent, food, and medicine—was emphasized, as families must make difficult choices each week to meet essential requirements.
In closing, the speaker asserted that the question of whether the referendum will take place on Election Day is not the central issue in the current moment. The real concern, he argued, is the cost burden on households and its impact on family safety and stability. The message was clear: political debates should address what matters most to citizens who are faced with higher prices and tougher living conditions.
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Mon/PAP
Source: wPolityce [Citation: Statistics Netherlands data on poverty and living conditions].