The relationship between politicians and the media is not always harmonious. In Nice, things seem to be going relatively well for Christian Estrosi. The mayor describes 2008 as a “busy year.” Thanking the press for giving him so much coverage throughout the year, the former Secretary of State for Overseas Affairs hopes that 2009 will unfold in the same way and that his relations with the local press will not deteriorate. “I have a lot of respect for you and your profession. I hope to continue to share this quality atmosphere,” he states. According to him, journalists and politicians are alike. “We play the role of the unloved.”
Questions and Answers on Current Affairs
After a speech of about twenty minutes, a question and answer session begins. Christian Estrosi will not be “part of the cabinet reshuffle. Everything in its own time,” he indicates, noting that he has a multitude of tasks to accomplish in Nice. Even if he does not express the desire to do so, it is legitimate to wonder why Éric Ciotti was placed at the head of the General Council if a government position was not predestined for him.
However, the year 2009 must be one of closeness and beautification of the city according to the statements of local officials. Of the 26 billion euros announced by the President of the Republic to stimulate the economy, between 80 and 120 million are going into Nice’s coffers. The city hall wants to “support the economic fabric in the face of the financial crisis.” But the President of the brand-new Urban Community has several renovation and construction projects: MAMAC, Palais Acropolis, schools, and housing (Pasteur, Ariane, les Moulins). If Nice invests significantly, in 2009 it will recover 11 million euros to finance these works.
The SNCF Strike: An Unacceptable Situation
The deputy mayor dwelled on the department’s transport networks, explaining his intention to merge the two transport units of the department into one within four to five years to make the view easier for the 22 million people transported in 2008. Driven by current events, he expressed anger over the social conflict at SNCF. For a month and a half, more than 20,000 travelers have been affected. “It’s unacceptable and irresponsible to have such an attitude,” he laments.
“Both parties do not respect the citizens. They are very unpopular and do nothing to change.”
While it is too early to judge him in his role as mayor of Nice, Christian Estrosi is certainly a very good communicator.
