The opposition has expressed bewilderment at the government’s decision to pressure itself in this manner, especially since there is currently no epidemiological emergency. They argue that Minister of Health Martine Deprez had ample time in recent months to address or improve the situation.
Among the critical voices was Mars di Bartolomeo, MP for the Luxembourg Socialist Workers’ Party (LSAP) and former rapporteur of the Covid-19 laws.
Di Bartolomeo criticised the government for relying on the same legislative procedure used during the acute phase of the pandemic, which entails introducing the text today and passing it through the Chamber of Deputies next week. He also criticised the government’s pivot regarding an independent evaluation of Covid-19 measures, now to be conducted within the framework of a public health bill.
The opposition further questions the shift in terminology from “pandemic bill” to “public health bill.”
MPs from the Pirate Party and the Left Party (Déi Lénk) expressed regret that the government is disregarding remarks made by the Council of State. MP François Bausch of the Green Party (déi gréng) proposed improving the current law by the end of the year, particularly in terms of data protection.
According to Bausch, this idea was well received by the majority parties, and a corresponding motion is expected to be voted on soon.
Another topic discussed by the Parliamentary Health Committee was the “Südspidol.” Construction of the new hospital in Esch-sur-Alzette is slated to begin in 2026, with an expected opening in 2032.
