Paul Magnette, President of the Socialist Party (PS), sharply criticised the Walloon government’s “very hypocritical attitude” regarding the finances of major cities on Wednesday.
He accused the Walloon government of imposing austerity measures on cities that it does not apply to itself, pointing out that cities are required to make budget cuts of 6 to 7% while the Walloon government only commits to cuts of 1 to 2%.
On Thursday, the MR-Engagés government announced a €235 million support package for the cities of Liège, Charleroi, and Mons. These cities were previously excluded from the Oxygène plan by the banking sector, which refused to provide loans to the cities. However, this support from the Regional Centre for Municipal Assistance (CRAC) comes with conditions that require the cities to implement budget-saving measures.
Magnette, a former mayor of Charleroi, expressed concern that these measures would inevitably lead to increased local taxes. Whilst he acknowledged that the government’s decision might not be a deliberate attack on the three socialist-led cities, he said that it shows a “lack of understanding” about the economic role of major cities in the region.
According to Magnette, the majority of jobs are created in large cities, which also host significant service centres, including healthcare and cultural facilities. He concluded that supporting these cities is essential for the recovery and progress of Wallonia.
