CFL asserts no knowledge of any misconduct by its staff

According to a damaging reporting from Tageblatt, CFL guards responsible for monitoring security camera footage at train stations across Luxembourg are doing anything but what they are meant to do, including playing cards, watching tv, or sleeping on the job.

Marc Wengler, speaking on behalf of CFL, denied these claims, stating that they were inaccurate and misunderstood. He emphasised that CFL management was unaware of any such occurrences, characterising the allegations as a broad-based attack that lacked substantiation.

The areas under scrutiny are reportedly designated as "Building Management System" units, which CFL clarifies are not surveillance cameras. Furthermore, CFL asserts that the responsibilities of the security staff are not aligned with the portrayal in the article.

At present, CFL asserts no knowledge of any misconduct by its staff. However, it affirms its commitment to investigating any allegations of malpractice thoroughly. CFL officials expressed bewilderment over Tageblatt's failure to reach out to CFL earlier and setting only a half-day ultimatum for response. They maintained that CFL remains open to dialogue with the press and would address any concrete evidence brought forward promptly.

Allegations raised by Tageblatt

The Tageblatt article alleges that instead of keeping an eye on surveillance camera footage, CFL staff are taking naps, watching Netflix, or playing online poker. According to Tageblatt information, this behaviour would have resulted in overlooked incidents of sexual or drug-related offences.

Meanwhile, the article alleges that conscientious employees are pressured into neglecting their duties.

In June 2023, individual employees are said to have taken their complaints to the CFL leadership without achieving any tangible results. Tageblatt further alleges that there are documents showing misconduct, as well as incidents of bullying and harassment.

The CFL has issued a statement to deny knowledge of any of these grievances and note that any criminal activity would fall under the purview of police and prosecutor's offices.

Trade union leaders express surprise over allegations

Leaders of prominent trade unions, including Mylène Bianchy, President of the Syprolux union, and Josy Bourggraff, Secretary of the railway union within the Independent Luxembourg Trade Union Confederation (OGBL), were caught off guard by revelations regarding alleged abuses within CFL's video surveillance department. Both leaders learned of the allegations through media reports, rather than through direct involvement in the case.

Bourggraff expressed astonishment at the reported conditions within the department, describing the allegations as a "bombshell revelation." He emphasised the importance of swift clarification from CFL, underscoring their responsibility to address such matters promptly. Bourggraff highlighted the unexpected nature of the allegations, noting that neither he nor his union had received reports or complaints from individuals regarding the grievances now coming to light.