© RTL
Ahead of the final Chamber session before the summer break, the Greens reflected on their rapid adjustment to opposition, voicing concerns over environmental policy cuts and outlining a commitment to climate action for the upcoming year.
Ahead of the final Chamber session before the summer break kicks off on Thursday, the parliamentary group of the Greens (Déi Gréng) met with the press to review the past political year. According to MP and group speaker Sam Tanson, they quickly adapted to their new role as an opposition party. This was important, she said, because although the new majority started off well by including the civil society into coalition talks and by modernising Chamber procedures, the Greens still quickly noticed negative developments.
The Greens' main concerns are environment and climate policies, notably the cutting of transition-oriented support like aids for solar installations and electric mobility. Over the next 12 months, the party intends to focus on these policies to show people the potential opportunities found in this area.
No longer on the Greens' bench in this new year will be François Bausch, who announced his retirement shortly after the European elections and will make way for Djuna Bernard. Bausch on Monday took responsibility for the Greens' past election disappointments, noting that they failed, on the one hand, to overcome the stigma of getting on people's nerves, and on the other hand, to convince voters of the positive impact from their proposed policies.
Nevertheless, Bausch also drew attention to the overall impact that the Greens have made, which he sees reflected in the new government's commitment to further green projects. He also cited the continuation of the 2035 National Mobility Plan, which he launched during his tenure as minister of mobility and public works, as a notable positive.
Sehovic addresses Pim Knaff controversy
During the press lunch, RTL questioned co-party president and Esch-sur-Alzette Alderman Meris Sehovic about the controversy surrounding Pim Knaff of the Democratic Party (DP), also an alderman in Esch. Knaff recently drew criticism, including from the Greens, for continuing to serve on the local council after having been convicted of aggravated tax fraud.
Sehovic argued that the Greens' position on the matter is clear and that they cannot "take the right" decision for another party. He further noted that the only thing left to do is to look forward and commit to improving the city of Esch.
