Marc Spautz, representing the CSV, emphasised that while the government has taken swift action on various issues, such efforts have not received adequate public attention. He underscored the significance of recent tax adjustments and measures within the housing sector, lamenting their overshadowing in public discourse.
Paulette Lenert, speaking on behalf of the LSAP, refrained from offering a comprehensive evaluation of the government’s performance, citing the early stage of its tenure. However, she expressed concern over the perceived tone adopted by the new government, particularly regarding the contentious begging ban and its approach towards the judiciary. “I didn’t think I’d ever see that in Luxembourg,” she said.
In response, Spautz defended the government’s demeanour, asserting that “strength and confidence” is often misconstrued as arrogance. He clarified that the CSV consists of “two wings,” denying the dominance of any singular faction within the party. Spautz highlighted ongoing challenges in Luxembourg, particularly within the housing sector, which necessitate comprehensive economic solutions.
The corresponding text in the criminal code will be amended, but simple begging will not be banned at a national level, Spautz explained with regard to the begging ban. At least, this is how he would have understood statements made by Minister of Justice Elisabeth Margue.
Lenert welcomed efforts to address the issue through legal amendments but stressed the importance of upholding the integrity of the judiciary. She cautioned against politicising legal matters, emphasising the need for respect towards judicial decisions. Lenert criticised recent statements by political figures, deeming them “highly problematic” and warned against undermining the rule of law. In her eyes, the debate is currently being used to divide Luxembourg society.
As far as the new government’s housing package is concerned, Lenert welcomed the fact that “something is happening.” However, she indicated that the LSAP would have preferred an employment retention strategy over short-time working measures.
Lenert emphasised that merely bolstering investments, as seen in previous years, is not a comprehensive solution. The LSAP advocated for measures such as the complete elimination of registration costs and the ability to deduct rent from taxes, akin to interest deductions on loans. She noted that the LSAP would not have supported measures like accelerated depreciation.
Marc Spautz echoed the sentiment of urgency, stating, “We have to act now.” As far as partial unemployment is concerned, Spautz stressed the need for effective inspections to prevent companies that do not need it from profiting from the measure.
Spautz outlined a phased approach to addressing the housing crisis, indicating that the current package represents just the initial steps. While short-term measures are imperative for swift implementation, Spautz stressed the necessity of broader, long-term solutions. When asked whether Luxembourg could afford this, Spautz said that doing nothing was not an option.
Lenert concurred, emphasising that investment in housing is an investment in the future, necessitating a comprehensive approach beyond mere financial considerations.
Looking back, Lenert expressed surprise at the fact that there was suddenly room for manoeuvre in the budget after all, despite statements to the contrary made during the previous government’s tenure. She cautioned against relying solely on economic growth to alleviate poverty.
Shifting the discussion to pensions, Spautz advocated for an open dialogue, particularly involving younger stakeholders, seeing as the issue is mainly related to the future of the younger generation. He insisted that “there are no plans to take anything away from anyone.”
This sentiment would not have come across at the beginning of the discussion, Lenert stated. She highlighted the absence of proposed increases in minimum pensions and emphasised the importance of inclusivity, ensuring that those unable to afford supplementary pensions are not overlooked.
