The unions fear a dismantling of the pension system by the Luxembourg government which has launched a debate on the subject.
Revalorize the minimum pension
Among our neighbors, the average pension after full membership of 40 years of work amounts to 3,600 euros per month. In the private sector, pensions above 8,000 euros represent 0.14% of the population concerned.
Conversely, 33% of old age pensions are less than 2,500 euros per month. “This minimum pension is well below the poverty risk threshold. But we have gone from 4 to 10% over the last ten years. The reduction in pensions in the Grand Duchy will significantly increase the risk of poverty”tempers Patrick Dury.
But if the future of pensions is assured until 2050, we must already anticipate a reform of the system. Increase the minimum pension significantly. “We are currently in discussions with the governmentfurther specifies the trade unionist who presents several demands. We want tripartite discussions (government, employers and the 3 unions), an evaluation over a period of 10 years with intermediate assessments because the long-term projection is too great in terms of employment and productivity. We advocate the use of the 27 billion reserve in the short and medium term while we find solutions. Or even play on the system’s revenues rather than on benefits.”
Other avenues also aim to perpetuate the end-of-year allowance and the readjustment of pensions, to increase the number of contribution periods (for example years of study), and to develop alternative sources of financing.
Luxembourg is a country that escapes the demographic trap. But, as Patrick Dury reminds us, the Grand Duchy needs cross-border workers whether they are French, German or Belgian. “We need cross-border workers to create wealth. They represent 47% of the 482,000 employees in Luxembourg.”
Two events planned
Far from wanting to endanger the social peace that reigns in Luxembourg, the Grand Ducal unions, which will be able to count on the presence of a CSC delegation, are organizing a public awareness and information action on December 3 at 5 p.m. Alvisse Hotel Park.
A protest picket will be set up on November 22 at 10:30 a.m. in front of the Ministry of Finance in Luxembourg City.
