Finding himself at the heart of recent revelations on the controversial management of the Brussels SAMU Social, the city’s Mayor, Yvan Mayeur (PS) says that he is “surprised” by the idea of setting up an inquiry committee. The former employee of the SAMU Social said, “I’ve nothing to hide. The Brussels SAMU Social must simply be transparent about its operation. This is no problem. Moreover, if there are errors and blunders, we must acknowledge them and take responsibility for them.” He said this in an interview given to Le Soir today (Thursday).
He laments, “an awkward response” from Pascale Peraïta, the resigning Managing Director of SAMU Social, on the use of public money which has “caused a commingling, which created genuine popular reaction. This has no rational basis. All of the money went to the cause in the field and organising the workload. Everyone knows this - the media knows it.”
Mr Mayeur confirmed that he had been paid, “a net amount, less taxes and deductions, of 700 euros per month.” He argues, “It is a lot to some, and yes I can understand that it will illicit public discussion. Moreover, at the same time, there was, and there still is, a justification linked to the amount of tasks completed.”
Questioned upon the potential repayment of emoluments paid, Mr Mayeur considered that he would not “have difficulties”, but did not wish to be accused of having been paid money wrongly. He therefore considered that there should be “another way of resolving the issue.”
He indicated that he still has the support of all PS-related bodies, including the party office, “so as not to embarrass the party” and “to ensure that there will be complete clarity and impartiality.”
The Brussels Times
