The discussion featured the participation of six prominent politicians, all of whom concurred on the urgency of addressing the challenges facing the central railway station.
Frank Engel, the lead candidate of FOKUS, proposed a potential solution by suggesting that the Ministry of Internal Security should fall under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Home Affairs. This realignment, he argued, could enhance the overall effectiveness of combating security concerns in municipalities. However, this proposition faced criticism from François Bausch of the Green Party (déi Gréng), who emphasised the need for swift action due to the emergency nature of the situation. Bausch argued that any significant restructuring of ministerial responsibilities or the establishment of a new municipal police force, as advocated by the Christian Social People’s Party (CSV), would be time-consuming.
Franz Fayot of the Luxembourg Socialist Workers Party (LSAP), a resident of the Gare district, underscored the long-standing existence of issues related to drugs and prostitution. His concern, however, was the escalating presence of these problems, which disrupted the daily lives of neighbourhood residents. Fayot opposed a purely repressive approach, asserting that it would not offer a viable solution. Nevertheless, when it came to drug offences, he stressed the importance of police intervention against drug dealers.
Yuriko Backes of the Democratic Party (DP) proposed the implementation of summary trials, which would expedite the judicial process for individuals who have been apprehended. She cited the example of France, where such procedures are used for various criminal offences. In contrast, Frank Engel criticised the idea of “Paris-style” summary trials as “fundamentally undemocratic” and instead advocated for expedited hearings, ensuring that different offences could be adjudicated within a reasonable timeframe, such as 14 days.
The CSV held a different perspective, contending that the rule of law could not exist without swift punishment. Luc Frieden argued that faster sentences would also serve an educational purpose. However, LSAP Minister Fayot cautioned against hasty judgments and a lack of proper defence in summary trials, advocating for an increase in the number of judges. François Bausch aligned with this perspective, emphasising the need to bolster existing legal instruments.
“We have to keep the goal in mind, because people don’t care if the thief who robbed them gets a sentence after one day, ten days, or ten months,” Bausch stated, adding: “people would prefer not to be robbed at all.” Roy Reding of Liberté-Freedom agreed with the Green party politician, noting that the example of France shows that summary trials are not a deterrent and do not reduce crime.
Turning to the issue of maintaining the attractiveness of the financial centre, former Minister of Finance Luc Frieden highlighted the importance of tax advantages in achieving this goal. Yuriko Backes, the incumbent Minister of Finance, highlighted the sector’s significance for the country and noted that the financial centre’s reputation had improved. To remain competitive, she stressed the importance of continued diversification, modernisation of tax administration, and advancements in sustainable finance.
Bausch echoed the importance of further investment in sustainable finance for Luxembourg. He suggested targeted adjustments and tax measures to enhance competitiveness in the investment fund industry. Franz Fayot advocated for a uniform taxonomy to encourage private investors to take more calculated risks.
Luxembourg would have an interest in investing further in this, Bausch agreed. He also stated that, as far as the fund industry is concerned, targeted adjustments and tax measures could be tackled in order to remain competitive. However, Bausch spoke vehemently against regulations that are distributed over a large area. To motivate private investors to be more daring, a uniform taxonomy could help, Fayot suggested.
