The Minister of Labour has responded to a scathing letter from the LCGB and OGBL trade unions accusing him of being unfit for his post. Mischo addressed some of the remarks, and regretted the personal angle of the letter.

The CSV's Georges Mischo was the subject of a letter addressed to Prime Minister Luc Frieden three weeks ago in which two trade unions declared he was not fit to serve as Labour Minister.

In response, Mischo said although the situation was unpleasant, he was even more motivated to look forward and hoping to create constructive dialogue with the social partners.

In the letter, the OGBL and LCGB presidents did not mince words, writing that Mischo was not up to the task of his ministerial role, lacked the relevant experience and skills, and did not know how to behave, as demonstrated by his approach to the Standing Committee on Labour and Employment (CPTE).

On Thursday, Mischo said he had read the letter and taken note of the criticisms.

"I've been considering the accusations, and I find it regrettable that the letter became so personal, it hit below the belt with some of the statements."

Mischo chose to publicly address some of the remarks made about his behaviour, saying: "I would like to take the opportunity to say I don't do things on purpose, nor am I seeking to provoke trouble, when I initiate things or bring topics up in discussions."

The minister did not comment on individual criticisms in detail, but added: "Of course mistakes happen. The Labour Ministry is, of course, a very difficult job to have."

However, he said he would not be complacent and was looking to the future with more motivation. Meetings took place with the trade unions after the submission of the letter on 9 October and those discussions had been productive, Mischo added.

The letter, addressed to Frieden and deputy Prime Minister Xavier Bettel, appeared to demand consequences. However, Mischo said there would be no personal consequences. "I have not had a slap on the wrist as a result of this."

The missive was discussed internally within government, but Mischo said the exact nature of these discussions would remain internal.