Right in the middle of Rue de Béthune, one of the liveliest in Lille (North), large signs attract the attention of walkers. “Would you prefer the closure of nurseries or the closure of nursing homes? “, we read there. “It’s probably a joke,” smiles a forty-year-old.
The subject, however, could not be more serious: with this deliberately provocative poster campaign, the municipality intends to generate reactions on a topic of national interest: the budget cuts requested by the Barnier government from communities. Restrictions estimated at 20 million euros by the City of Lille.
“These figures may seem abstract to residents, but behind them are public agents and services that we need more than ever. So, where do we get these 20 million euros? », asks the socialist mayor of Lille, Martine Aubry, on X.
“We eliminate the municipal police (12 million euros), we cut off water and heating in schools (4 million euros) and we no longer light the streets (4 million euros)? », calls out another panel. Local residents, a little taken aback, stop to start a conversation.
“It’s a bit like asking ourselves whether we prefer to have wooden legs or foam arms,” jokes Bernard, 63. That the town hall so openly criticizes the government is a little surprising. But I understand, frankly. »
“Basically, they may be right, but… How much did all these posters cost? », replies a passerby, a little perplexed, before quickly walking away.
