The meeting had an early start, but nearly all representatives were present as this marked the only opportunity for the concerned parties to meet and discuss the European Commission's recommendations.
The recommendation to reform the pensions system is not a new idea put forth by the European Commission in February 2019, having been in previous recommendations.
Speaking about the meeting, Prime Minister Xavier Bettel explained that the goal of the meeting was to have a dialogue about the European Commission's recommendations. Bettel believed the meeting was positively productive, but quipped that it is not his place to mark his own efforts. He went on to say he expects the social partners to provide criticism, but also to acknowledge positive decisions, especially given their role in making those decisions.
The meeting began with the government presenting its own work and achievements over the last year, which was then followed by trade unions highlighting areas for improvement.
Not wholly representative
The president of the CGFP (Luxembourgish General Confederation of Public Services), Romain Wolff, explained that from his perspective, it is clear that the employees his trade union represents are paying too much tax.
Christophe Knebeler, the joint secretary-general of the LCGB, highlighted that praising the country's general prosperity should not hide the fact that individual situations still include financial struggles. He added that a certain proportion of the population is not benefiting from the country's prosperity and the authorities should introduce additional measures to help these citizens.
Housing remains a complex issue
Housing is a particularly acute issue for people struggling with poverty. As a result, some of the trade unions had tangible recommendations for the government.
OGBL president André Roeltgen explained that the trade unions proposed ten separate points in curbing the rising costs of housing. In his opinion, the free market must be legislatively limited in order for residents to be able to afford to keep up. Roeltgen mentioned upper limits of new plot prices as a particular measure worth introducing.
The new president of the Luxembourg Employers' Association (UEL), Nicolas Buck, found the meeting an interesting exercise, especially in experiencing different perspectives on the country's development. He found the dialogue constructive and highlighted the importance of these meetings in exchanging ideas.
