On Wednesday evening, the Christian Social People's Party (CSV) and the Democratic Party (DP) revealed the key points of their coalition agreement to the members of both parties' executive committees.
During the CSV's press briefing, which started over an hour later than initially announced, Luc Frieden confirmed that the coalition agreement was accepted unanimously by the party's executive committees.
The eight CSV ministers
- Luc Frieden - Prime Minister
- Martine Deprez - Minister of Health and Social Security
- Gilles Roth - Minister of Finance
- Elisabeth Margue - Minster of Justice.
- Serge Wilmes - Minister for the Environment and Civil Service
- Martine Hansen - Minister of Agriculture
- Georges Mischo - Minister of Labour and Sport
- Léon Gloden - Ministry for Home Affairs and Internal Security
Reactions to the coalition agreement by the CSV
"It was important to swiftly craft a solid coalition agreement," stated Christophe Hansen, the Secretary-General of the CSV, in an initial response. The key points were presented to the National Council, rather than the entire 200-page program.
Martine Deprez also addressed the press, expressing her preparedness and dedication to the forthcoming responsibilities. The decision was made relatively swiftly. Now, she needs to "let things settle" and acquaint herself with the operations of the ministry in the coming days. Martine Deprez has a substantial background in Social Security, initiating her career there before becoming a mathematics professor and working in inspection for 10 years. Given the inherent connection between the Health and Social Security sectors, her appointment to both portfolios would naturally be sensible. Furthermore, her experience in the State Council will undoubtedly prove beneficial in addressing various health-related matters.
Gilles Roth also refers to his new role as Finance Minister as a great honor. He acknowledges it as a demanding position but expresses gratitude for the opportunity. His primary focus in the ministry is now on enhancing purchasing power, ensuring the attractiveness of the financial center, and bolstering the competitiveness of businesses.
Viviane Reding shares a positive sentiment, expressing satisfaction that a joint programme, oriented towards the future, has been swiftly established by the two parties. This collaborative effort is expected to provide a cohesive direction moving forward.
It is crucial to collaborate constructively, as highlighted by the upcoming faction leader of the CSV, Marc Spautz. Two meetings are already planned for the next week, one for "self-reflection" and another where the coalition agreement will be a key topic. The debate on the agreement is scheduled for Thursday. The composition of the CSV ministers is particularly interesting, with 9 entirely new individuals in the Chamber, 7 of whom are newcomers. This could pave the way for "a different style" of politics, as Marc Spautz further suggests.
