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The Left's Gary Diederich defends support for tax reform while calling for greater fairness

Gary Diederich, who is set to be sworn in as a new MP for déi Lénk this week, defended his party's support for the government's tax reform, while insisting that much more needs to be done to ensure real tax justice in Luxembourg. Speaking to RTL, Diederich stressed that his party made its decision based on the immediate needs of low-income earners. He acknowledged that the reform, which introduces a single tax class, falls short of delivering the broader fairness déi Lénk wants, but it is the only measure that really benefits people who urgently need relief right now.

Diederich emphasised that the party did not support the reform as a political gift to the government, but because it brings tangible help to vulnerable groups. He rejected any suggestion that déi Lénk's support for the reform weakens their stance on government policies. Instead, he confirmed that the decision to back the reform was not taken lightly, but rather was the result of near-unanimous agreement in the party's national coordination committee. Nevertheless, Diederich criticised the government for failing to introduce structural changes, arguing that a more just system would require progressive taxation not only on income, but also on capital. He argued for changes such as reinstating higher corporate tax rates, reversing previous cuts, and introducing a progressive inheritance tax with appropriate exemptions for smaller inheritances, which could significantly improve public finances.

Turning to the housing crisis, Diederich highlighted the need for urgent measures to protect tenants. He discussed déi Lénk's push for a rent cap, which the party has promoted through a new petition and campaign. Diederich criticised the current system for allowing speculation to distort rents and stressed that public and affordable construction is also necessary. Nonetheless, the rent cap would provide immediate relief. Diederich was sceptical of recent government proposals to offer accelerated depreciation on new affordable homes, arguing that these are merely tax gifts and do little to solve the underlying problems.

Also today

• Physical violence and overcrowding remain daily challenges in Luxembourg's prisons.
• The 25^th edition of the annual Museum Night takes place tomorrow
• Levantine restaurant in Luxembourg City severely damaged by fire.
• The Nobel Peace Prize has today been to South Africa's Navi Pillay.
• The execution of Nidal Hasan, convicted of the 2009 Fort Hood shooting, will be livestreamed.
• The European Union has expressed "serious concerns" about democratic standards in Turkey

On air

It was silly question time with Steps and John. And we broke the news that Placebo announced more tickets to sell.

Figure of the day

Government has today unveiled a practical guide to help residents become self-sufficient for 72 hours in the event of an emergency

• The handbook contains tips on preparing for situations such as power cuts, floods or cyber attacks. "The next crisis is on its way", warned Gloden, highlighting the importance of making the country more resilient and ensuring the public are well-prepared.
• The guide has four sections, covering, among other things, why it is important to be prepared for a possible emergency, and includes a checklist of things Luxembourg residents should have at home.

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