Following a large protest by trade unions OGBL and LCGB on Saturday afternoon, Prime Minister Luc Frieden appeared live on RTL Télé Luxembourg in the evening to address the concerns raised by the thousands who had gathered in protest.
On Saturday 28 June, Luxembourg’s main trade unions, the Independent Luxembourg Confederation of Trade Unions (OGBL) and the Luxembourg Confederation of Christian Trade Unions (LCGB), united to protest against the government’s policies, which they denounced as neo-liberal and anti-social. Prime Minister Frieden, a central focus of the demonstration, said he had followed the event with great seriousness and described it as a “successful protest”.
Although confronted with a myriad of strong messages, Frieden said it is his duty to listen, as he aims to be a Prime Minister for all people. Responding to the sight of over ten thousand citizens marching against his government’s policy, he acknowledged that major reforms inevitably trigger opposition but stressed the importance of finding solutions through inclusive dialogue.
The scale of the protest also communicated the necessity to improve things. While committed to implementing the government’s mandate, Frieden added that social dialogue must also be taken seriously, something he regards as a personal priority.
On the topic of pension reform, Frieden stated that the government is prepared to discuss all proposals and models. However, he warned that maintaining the current system would eventually result in the absence of pensions altogether.
Frieden also met with leaders of employers’ associations in preparation for a meeting scheduled on 9 July aimed at restarting social dialogue. Shortly after the protest Frieden talked to the presidents Nora Back (OGBL) and Patrick Dury (LCGB) to assure them that their worries were taken seriously.
Addressing criticism that he is running the country like a CEO, Frieden admitted the remark affected him personally. He rejected claims of an anti-social policy, pointing to targeted social measures introduced by the CSV/DP government, including a tripling of energy subsidies. He added that being a political means looking out for the greater good.
The government’s proposal to raise the effective retirement age remains its preferred option for securing the pension system, for reasons it has already outlined. However, Frieden said the government is open to discussing alternative solutions, including a mix of different systems, and committed to doing so “at eye level”, as demanded by trade unions.
