Facing criticism over its budget management, the non-profit FrEsch, which manages cultural events in Esch-sur-Alzette, refuted claims by clarifying the situation.
After facing criticism regarding its budget management, the non-profit "FrEsch," which oversees much of Esch-sur-Alzette's cultural events, issued a statement.
FrEsch asserted that many claims in the investigation published by Reporter.lu were not thoroughly researched. For example, they clarified an invoice amounting to over €1.400 for pizzas provided by a food truck at two exhibition openings last July. They also stated that the reported figure of €5.7 million in revenue is incorrect and does not appear in any official documents.
Speaking on Radio 100,7, Christian Weis, mayor of Esch-sur-Alzette, retracted his earlier statement, admitting he had incorrect information when he previously claimed that municipal councilors had already received the relevant documents.
FrEsch emphasised that no decisions are made without the approval of the municipal council of Esch-sur-Alzette. They highlighted that the annual subsidy for the cultural non-profit organisation is approved each year during the council's budget vote and that the accounts are published and approved as required by regulations.
Pim Knaff, a DP alderman and the president of FrEsch, was convicted of aggravated tax fraud, leading the opposition to demand his resignation. The municipal opposition has also long criticised FrEsch's budget management.
The non-profit organises major events in Esch, such as the 'Francofolies' and 'Nuit de la Culture,' and manages several facilities, including Bâtiment 4. This particular facility has been a point of contention, notably with the artist collective Direction22, whose lease was not renewed.
