Skilful shot Florian Weber now aiming for different target

As can be seen in the photograph, Florian Weber has a determined look about him, whether he is preparing to hit the target at his local shooting club or fulfil his dream of becoming a member of the cantonal government.

When the 37-year-old had this photograph of himself taken at the Choller shooting range in Zug, he was surrounded by journalists, photographers and members of the Military Shooting Association. However, he did not let all this distract him, concentrated on the matter in hand and went on to achieve a high score of 74 points, no mean effort.

Weber has been an active member of the FDP party for 15 years, having always been interested in politics. “As a family we often used to talk politics over Sunday lunch, not that any other of my family is actively involved,” he admitted.

Scarcely had the then 22-year-old joined the party than he became a member of the board and now is its leader. Then, eight years ago, he became a member of the cantonal parliament, subsequently becoming leader of the parliamentary FDP party, so it is not surprising he loves debating. What is more, so open is he that he is not afraid of disagreeing with his own party when he feels it is right to do so. Not that he makes any great fuss about it. “I just do what I say,” he said. “I like this creative process in politics,” he added, “thinking up something and then implementing it.”

If he were elected, he would endeavour to ensure current high standards were maintained. “Things are good for us here in Zug and we must ensure this is maintained,” he said, while adding that one of his concerns is the excessive amount the canton is expected to pay to the National Equalisation Fund. Then he mentioned how he felt cantonal infrastructure still needed to be extended, citing the Cham-Hünenberg bypass and the road up to Aegeri.

He unashamedly admitted how the FDP party was one which greatly supported business, “the economy can only grow if it is based on a firm foundation,” he said, agreeing with the party’s adage of “freedom through responsibility” and adding, “Only if one is prepared to take on responsibilities can one enjoy the freedom.”

Initially, Weber trained as an electrician but went on to take a degree to become a specialist in business data processing, setting up his own company, Goosetech GmbH, just five years ago. If he were to be elected, he would have to give this up, but he said he was prepared for all eventualities.

Of all ten candidates standing for election to the cantonal government, Weber is probably the least known, not that he feels this is a disadvantage, not wanting to have every detail about him published. Suffice it to say he is single, grew up in Walchwil, goes jogging several times a week and takes part in Krav Maga, a form of martial art, not to mention reading a good book and enjoying the occasional glass of wine. If his busy timetable allows, he enjoys nothing more than spending time with his godsons. “Having a balance in life is very important,” he said. Above all, though, he enjoys shooting. While, of course, he is totally reliant on himself when taking aim and shooting, he also enjoys the camaraderie of the club members.

But will he make the target when it comes to 7 October? One must wait and see.