Parents demand solution

32 degrees in kindergarten: air conditioning denied

(Bild: Krone KREATIV/Haus: Gerhard Bartel Temperatur: zVg)

Parents of an overheated kindergarten in Vienna are urgently calling for a solution, as no sustainable measures to cool it down have been implemented despite repeated complaints. MA 10 refers to sustainability targets. 

Everyone is sweating these days. It is particularly bad in a kindergarten in Kanitzgasse in the 23rd district. The thermometer there reads over 32 degrees. The parents are worried - and rightly so.

"Back in April last year, we brought together various municipal authorities to find a solution for the summer months," reports parent representative Timo Zöller. There were several meetings and consultations. However, not much came of it: neither an air conditioning system, nor mobile air conditioning units, an improved ventilation system or a green roof were approved. What remained was the proposal to move into alternative accommodation during the summer, but this is out of the question for the parents.

"We don't want to tear the children away from their familiar surroundings. There must be another option," says the father concerned. Apparently not, because while our report about another (private) kindergarten was quickly responded to and air conditioning units were installed, MA 10 has rejected this measure. "The installation of air conditioning systems is out of the question, as this is not compatible with our goals for a sustainable future. Our employees are particularly creative on hot days when it comes to cooling the children down. They organize refreshing water games and hand out spray bottles," they say.

For Deputy District Head Patrick Gasselich (ÖVP), this is not enough: "Solutions are needed for this location. The focus is on the well-being of the children and the staff - the city must make everyday life bearable for them."