More young people should pursue their education and find employment on Lolland-Falster.
This is an important part of the foundation for business development, says Social Democratic Party MP Kasper Roug. At the same time, he will work for the Fehmarn Belt Fixed Link and improved transport connections across the area.
FemernBusiness asks local members of parliament five standard questions about their focus for business.
What is your most important focus for business in our area?
There are three things. The first is the Fehmarn Belt Fixed Link, which is very important and something we talk about a great deal.
In addition, we need to talk more about developing east-west transport links. They are a lifeline for our area. This also applies to the E55 and the exit at Nykøbing.
The final focus has two aspects and is perhaps the most important, because it is the foundation for everything: We need to expand our educational opportunities, particularly around Fehmarn, and ensure ordinary, basic welfare. Without that, we do not have a society.
Why this in particular – what do you see as the problem or opportunity?
Because all of this is crucial to whether we can create and attract residents, businesses and jobs to the area. They do not come on their own.
Conditions must be good and attractive; otherwise, many will simply choose to go elsewhere.
How will you work specifically for this in Parliament?
By constantly standing up and saying these things. We must continually draw attention to the issues that concern us and maintain constant pressure.
Otherwise, nothing happens. If we do not make our needs known, development will pass us by.
What should local businesses experience if this succeeds?
When a new infrastructure plan is drawn up, there must also be a clear imprint from us on Lolland.
When we talk about educational programmes such as Campus Femern, there must be an open and clear system. Otherwise, newly qualified people in many fields will continue to remain far from our area.
The important thing is that we can attract young people from across the country and provide them with an education and a job down here. The same applies to teaching staff, who should also settle here.
What do businesses stand to lose if the issue is not prioritised?
The consequence is stagnation. And as Peter Dan Petersen has said, stagnation ultimately means decline.
That is why it must be prioritised, and fortunately many people are working on it.
The interview has been edited by FemernBusiness.
