As a guest on QR le débat, Pierre-Yves Jeholet spoke about the Walloon budget. A serious and responsible budget, which embraces the necessary savings, but which also and above all continues to prepare for the future, defend purchasing power, and support families and businesses.
Savings obviously need to be made to restore Wallonia's finances. And there is no question of promising everything today and leaving the bill to future generations. We can be serious with public money while still investing, reforming and supporting the people of Wallonia.
Job Bonus, inheritance tax, energy costs for businesses… A quick look at a few measures in this budget that will have a real impact.
Up to 500 euros more with the Job Bonus
Work must pay more. That is also why Pierre-Yves Jeholet is driving the creation of the Job Bonus in Wallonia.
With the cost of living, energy and travel, many workers see a chunk of their pay disappear into everyday expenses. Wallonia will allocate 205 million euros a year to the Job Bonus.
Employees domiciled in Wallonia earning up to 5,000 euros gross per month will receive an annual bonus paid directly by the Region. It can reach up to 500 euros per year for the lowest incomes and will gradually decrease to 50 euros.
This is not another voucher tied to a specific expense. It is extra money that everyone can use freely.
“When you work, it should show on your bank account. The Job Bonus means up to 500 euros more a year. Everyone can use that money as they see fit. It's extra purchasing power and a very concrete way of rewarding work more”, emphasises Pierre-Yves Jeholet.
The Job Bonus complements Job Plus, the other reform driven by the Minister of Employment. With Job Plus, Wallonia supports employers who hire and helps people return to work. With the Job Bonus, it directly increases the income of those in work.
Finding a job is one step. Being able to live better from your work is another.
Passing on more to your children
Another measure that will directly affect many families is the reduction in inheritance tax.
From 1 January 2028, the first 75,000 euros inherited in a direct line will be tax-exempt. As a result, 62% of direct-line inheritances will be exempt, compared with less than 25% today.
The highest rates will also fall. None will exceed 50%, whereas today they can reach as much as 80%.
Being able to pass on more easily the fruits of a lifetime's work to loved ones is also a matter of fairness. The reduction in property gift duties, also planned for 2028, will further facilitate the early transfer of assets, for example to help children buy or renovate a home.
Reducing businesses' energy bills
Energy also weighs heavily on businesses. And when prices are higher than in neighbouring countries, it is their competitiveness, their investments and, ultimately, jobs that are at stake.
Over three years, Wallonia will mobilise 180 million euros to offset indirect carbon costs, plus a further 90 million euros for new support under the European CISAF framework.
The idea is to help businesses facing high electricity prices, while also supporting them to invest, reduce energy consumption and decarbonise their operations.
Being serious without halting progress
“This budget means savings, yes. We must own that. But it also includes measures for those who work, for families and for our businesses. We don't want to make the people of Wallonia believe that you can endlessly spend money you don't have. Being responsible also means continuing to prepare for the future,” concludes Pierre-Yves Jeholet.