The Government Council approved several draft bills on Wednesday, including a major reform to create a single tax class. Finance Minister Gilles Roth is expected to present this measure in early January.
Among the approved texts is a highly anticipated draft bill that will allow doctors to form joint surgeries. This framework, which sparked public debate following the announcement of the Findel Clinic project, had been withdrawn and revised by Health Minister Martine Deprez after initially being drafted by her predecessor, Paulette Lenert.
Modelled on the existing legal structure for law firms, the bill permits only licensed doctors, dentists, veterinarians, and psychotherapists to establish such entities. All members must work independently and adhere to professional ethical codes. Crucially, the bill explicitly prohibits investment or participation from non-medical third parties, ensuring these surgeries are wholly owned and operated by professionals registered with the relevant medical or veterinary boards, which will also be responsible for granting approvals.
In a separate move to bolster national defence, the Council approved a series of measures to increase the appeal of the Luxembourg Army. Key reforms include broadening recruitment criteria for both military personnel – voluntary and professional – and civilian staff. Notably, the government plans to open recruitment to EU citizens who are not residents of Luxembourg.
The package also introduces significant pay increases. The monthly salary for voluntary soldiers will rise by a minimum of €530, elevating the starting pay from €2,200 to approximately €2,700. After four years of service, this salary will increase to €3,700. The standard active military service commitment will also be extended from four to five years.
Further approvals included a new national digital strategy running until 2030 and a national action plan to promote organic agriculture, the details of which are to be unveiled soon.
Finally, the Council greenlit the construction of a new public European secondary school in Schifflange.
