Luxembourg's municipal union, the FGFC, has accused the Dudelange municipality of severe misconduct, alleging human rights violations, data protection breaches, and improper handling of workplace grievances.
At the heart of the controversy are alleged problems within the municipality’s IT department, including accusations of racism, harassment, and misuse of municipal resources.
According to the FGFC, these allegations should have been addressed through proper legal procedures with due diligence. However, the union asserts that the municipality instead cast suspicion on all employees, subjecting them to hours-long questioning without access to legal or union representation.
The union further alleges that offices were searched, devices confiscated, and private data improperly examined. Several employees were suspended without any explanation or justification. The FGFC warns that similar irregularities may exist in other municipal departments.
Highlighting the gravity of the situation, the union referenced a ruling by the disciplinary committee. While the committee acknowledged irregularities within the IT department, it also criticised the municipality for violating human rights and data protection laws. The FGFC described the municipality’s decision to appeal the ruling in the administrative court as a “new low point.”
The union also accused the municipality of refusing to engage in dialogue or consider solutions proposed by the FGFC. Furthermore, it expressed concerns that the actions taken were politically motivated attempts to remove certain employees.
