A look back at the major topical issues raised by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Economy and Employment in an interview for 7Dimanche.
The reverse price cap, an urgent matter. Faced with tension over energy prices, heightened by geopolitical uncertainty, David Clarinval is pushing for the rapid activation of the reverse price cap. A measure that benefits citizens and businesses, supported beyond the MR, which could be triggered for one renewable month. At the same time, a price cap for SMEs' electricity is being implemented, along with a code of good conduct with suppliers.
Industry and energy: reversing the decline. Industry's share of Belgian added value has fallen from 20% to 13% since 2000. For David Clarinval, the answer lies in an ambitious energy standard, €1 billion in structural cost reductions, massive investment in the electricity grid, and openness to small nuclear reactors for businesses. The nuclear phase-out remains, in his view, “a historic mistake” for which Belgium is still paying the price.
Labour market. Around ten reforms are on the table to save social security. Flexi-jobs, overtime, trial periods, notice periods… The aim is to make the labour market more flexible and fund social security through job creation rather than austerity. On unemployment reform, initial feedback varies by region, but an unexpected effect is emerging: some CPAS are rediscovering people abandoned by the system, to whom they can restore rights and employment.
Defence : €9 billion and thousands of jobs. By 2030, €9 billion will be invested in Defence. For the minister, it is crucial to recruit on a massive scale and ensure that public money benefits Belgian companies.