On September 27th, 2023, the “Tageblatt” published an article about the possible bankruptcy of BENU Village Esch asbl. Its funding, previously guaranteed by an agreement between the Ministry of the Environment and the town of Esch-sur-Alzette, would no longer be guaranteed for the next few months. The financial resources of the association are exhausted and the continuation of the project is more than uncertain.

Shortly before the article was published, the OGBL was alerted by employees of the association to dysfunctions and irregularities in the company. Rumors that the association could no longer afford to pay its bills and salaries have since been confirmed by management and political leaders.

Faced with this situation, the OGBL expresses its shock and total incomprehension at the announcement by the political leaders of the town of Esch-sur-Alzette that further funds, if granted, could only be disbursed in a few months’ time. It would therefore not be possible to continue to pay the salaries of the 40 employees.

The OGBL strongly condemns the fact that the future of the employees is being jeopardized by the lack of communication between those in charge and by the mismanagement of public funds.

The OGBL demands an immediate rectification of the circumstances that have led to this situation and calls on those responsible to commit to preserving the jobs of all employees. It is totally unacceptable that the staff has been put in this situation and it goes without saying that the OGBL will remain firm and continue to stand up for the interests of the staff.

A plenary meeting of all employees will be organized in the next few days to prepare trade union actions in case the politicians or the management do not take their responsibility.

Press release of the OGBL Health, Social and Educational Services Syndicate, September 29, 2023