Grand Council BE Canton of Bern can use private company to guard embassy
To relieve the burden on the police, the Canton of Bern will in future be able to entrust a security company with tasks relating to embassy and consulate security. The Grand Council approved a corresponding bill on Wednesday by 133 votes to 18.
11.09.2024, 12:00
SDA
Parliament approved a loan of CHF 550,000 per year for the years 2024 to 2027. It remains to be seen how much money will ultimately be needed. Negotiations on a financial contribution from the federal government are still ongoing, as Security Director Philippe Müller (FDP) told the Council.
The canton protects more than 200 objects on behalf of the federal government. Since the start of the war in Ukraine and the conflict in the Middle East, the protection requirements of several representations have increased massively. The cantonal police are therefore reliant on the support of an external security company.
Daru-Wache AG secured the contract in a public tendering process. Due to negative headlines surrounding this company, the Greens submitted a request to subject the company to a payroll audit. This would enable any dumping wages to be uncovered.
The Council rejected the motion, which Security Director Müller described as superfluous. Firstly, the tender had required that people should not be exploited and that the industry's collective employment agreement should be adhered to.
Secondly, the Daru-Wache had had to submit various documents and answer questions. There was no evidence of wage dumping. Thirdly, the labor market inspectorate could still be called in if necessary.
