Amid reports of strained relations and harassment allegations at Lycée Josy Barthel in Mamer, the Ministry of Education has introduced a complaints committee to address the situation.

On Tuesday morning, the Parliamentary Education Committee convened to address ongoing tensions and a reportedly toxic atmosphere involving the management, teachers, and students at Lycée Josy Barthel (LJB) in Mamer.

In an effort to ease the situation, Minister of Education Claude Meisch has ordered the creation of an internal complaints committee. This move follows accusations of harassment, particularly against the headmaster, though Minister Meisch emphasised that these claims have yet to be substantiated by "facts."

The Ministry of Education has requested that three teachers formally explain their accusations via a written statement. Minister Meisch stated his intent to give them a chance to "explain themselves." However, he warned that "people shouldn't think they can say whatever they want, free from any rules."

Earlier this year, two coaches were assigned to assess the ongoing issues at LJB. Their report noted that, rather than seeking internal solutions, "third parties" had escalated the situation to outsiders, complicating efforts to resolve it.

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Minister Meisch also expressed disapproval of anonymous letters sent to the ministry. He stated that, since the beginning of his political career, he has "not been a fan" of anonymous complaints. He urged concerned parents to write again, without omitting their names, if they truly believe in the seriousness of the allegations, noting that individuals should be ready to substantiate their claims before the ministry or other relevant bodies. "Otherwise, I don't see how such initiatives are meant to improve the situation," he said.

Regardless of the committee's impact, management changes are set for LJB at the end of the year. After 14 years in the role, Headmaster Claude Christnach will not seek another term, and a new deputy headmaster is also being recruited.