Opposition members of the Flemish Parliament expressed dissatisfaction on Wednesday with the Government Agreement put together by the new governing coalition, made up of the Christen-Democratisch en Vlaams (CD&V, Vooruit and Nieuw-Vlamse Alliantie (N-VA) parties.
The agreement is "too vague" and "unambitious," and citizens can expect to see several of their bills increase, the opposition warned.
The new Flemish Minister-President, Matthias Diependaele (N-VA), delivered his “September declaration” on Monday, outlining the key points of the agreement with the Socialists and Christian Democrats.
On Wednesday, it was the parliamentarians’ turn to speak to the agreement. Opposition MPs accused the majority of lacking ambition and detailed plans.
The Greens and the far-left claim the agreement largely continues the policy of the previous government of Prime Minister Jan Jambon.
Greens leader Mieke Schauvliege criticised the agreement for its “total lack of climate ambitions.”
Ordinary citizens should not be fooled, the opposition warned, listing potential increases in service voucher costs, fewer ‘job bonuses,’ higher labour costs for SMEs, increased water bills, additional road taxes, and more expensive bus tickets.
“People will be surprised when they see the bills,” said Tom Ongena of Open Vld.
Jos D’Haese of The Belgian Workers' Party (PTB) echoed these concerns, emphasising the shock awaiting many.
Minister-President Matthias Diependaele appeared undeterred by the criticisms. Accusing the liberals of “hypocrisy,” he pointed to their enthusiasm for the yet-to-be-detailed Walloon government agreement.
“Signing a blank cheque, that’s what you do best,” Diependaele retorted.
He acknowledged that some points in the agreement were vague because they are still being finalised, sometimes due to the need for on-the-ground consultation.
