Georges Engel, former labour minister and president of the largest opposition party, the Luxembourg Socialist Workers' Party (LSAP), reacted live on RTL Radio on Friday morning to the preliminary agreement reached during Thursday's tripartite discussions. Engel emphasised that "where there's a will, there's a way", underlining the importance of political determination in reaching consensus on major social issues.
Engel described the agreement as a positive signal for the revival of social dialogue in Luxembourg. He pointed out that the measures will put more money in the pockets of individuals and families, and that the gradual increase of the minimum wage reflects long-standing demands from the LSAP.
The party had previously advocated for a €200 increase in the minimum wage, to be implemented in two stages, a demand that is now being met in principle by the new deal.
However, Engel also urged caution, stressing the need to carefully examine the details of the package, which will cost the state approximately €450 million. He acknowledged it is right for the government to invest in measures that ease the impact of economic crises, but warned that the pace of public spending has accelerated significantly.
Engel insisted that it is crucial to keep a close eye on expenditure going forward.
