The socialist union (FGTB) on Tuesday condemned Bart De Wever's socio-economic "supernote", which outlines reforms that the next Federal Government would make to reduce Belgium's budget deficit.
The FGTB dubbed it the “De Wever-Bouchez plan” and said it constitutes a “direct attack on purchasing power.” It is considering action in the coming weeks to protest the plan.
According to the FGTB, 95% of the budgetary efforts detailed in the note target pensions, social security, wage indexation, and public services, with only 5% aimed at large fortunes. The union argues the plan also undermines social protection, working conditions, and breaches social dialogue principles.
“Vooruit rightly stated that the super-note remains imbalanced and thus does not constitute a negotiation basis for the government,” added the socialist union. “It is surprising that parties like Les Engagés and CD&V, who claim to defend social issues, do not reach the same conclusion.”
The FGTB rejects workers bearing the “brunt of budgetary constraints” and opposes questioning the automatic wage indexation. “Moreover, the majority of the population supports a tax on large fortunes,” it noted. “It is becoming increasingly clear that the De Wever-Bouchez plan is not just a proposal but the core of a potential coalition agreement between the centre-right and conservative right.”
The union announces its intention to “step up efforts” to raise awareness among workers and the general public and plans to take action soon.
