It is unclear whether the authors of the major interview published in the local newspaper, related to the new Semiacs affair – namely the letter from 58 of the 120 employees and management denouncing a climate of intimidation (The word “mafia-like” was even used) by the CGT union representative (the majority in the elective bodies), are telling the truth and nothing but (the whole?) truth.
From there, a major airing took place and the former Chairman of the Board and first deputy mayor of Nice, Benoît Kandel, who resigned following the Alonzo affair (The director-general convicted in a criminal case and dismissed), has once again, as not long ago, become the target of numerous criticisms and accusations.
In reality, if the initiative casts some doubt on its spontaneity and its odd coincidence with the ongoing election campaign in which Benoît Kandel will oppose Christian Estrosi, the content clearly suggests that its initiators, directors, and other actors aimed to take advantage of the opportunity to target a potential political opponent through what is called “a demolition action of someone’s honorability.”
But as physics dictates, the third law of motion states that “every action provokes an equal and opposite reaction.” Hence a precise and well-argued clarification by Benoît Kandel:
“I want to restore the truth in the face of inaccuracies, fragmented information, and other falsehoods!” he said during a press briefing – held in a downtown hotel – which we summarize here.
IGS Audit: “Semiacs is a private company with public shareholders. The inspection I authorized myself, while the company is overseen by auditors who have never reported any criticism of its management, which would have prompted an intervention by the Court of Auditors. This report is invalid because, curiously, it was established without cross-examination. In fact, I was never heard even though I was the main party involved and could have provided useful answers.”
Henri Alonzo, former director-general’s salary: Since his appointment to this position in 2010 (editor’s note: He was hired for a different position), his net salary increased by 21% (and not by 217%), including a part as the director-general of Sude, the Semiacs subsidiary that applied certain technological devices. This part of the salary was granted to him following a legal counsel’s advice that recognized the obligation.
His remuneration: My personal remuneration for my municipal activity and responsibilities was 3,179 euros net per month, broken down as follows: Semiacs 1,148 euros, First Deputy 648 euros, and Metropolitan Councilor 1,382 euros.*
Semiacs management: Under my presidency, the turnover went from 15.3 million euros to 19.4, that is, an increase of +26%) with a management profit of 6.6 million euros. I would also like to say that Semiacs is a high-performing company, at the forefront with its organization and technological level, taken as an example internationally… and always publicly accredited by the mayor of Nice.
Tendering: As a SEM (Mixed Economy Company), Semiacs is under no obligation to go through tenders but through competitive procedures or advantageous options. This is the operational benefit of being a private company even if publicly owned.
Social climate: in 5 years: There have been 9 dismissals for gross misconduct. Absenteeism stands around 2%. Indicators do not suggest a company in revolt.
Hiring of Henri Alonzo’s daughter and her partner: It can be criticized even if both individuals fulfill their roles competently. Furthermore, the new president has just promoted Madame Alonzo to a higher responsibility position. I take this opportunity to state that my wife and children work in the private sector and no member of my family, not even a distant cousin, benefits from a position in a local authority or public company. I can assure you that this is not always the case, and I could present a rather long list… and, I add, with salaries quite different from those of Madame Alonzo and her partner.
Union problems: This was not my remit. It is not the president who organizes delegate elections, nor who participates in the vote, nor who manages internal power struggles that, as we know, exist in all companies.
I see that Madame Gaziello is very concerned and expresses herself vehemently: Should I remind her that her relationship issues with the CGT should not affect her role as a company administrator? Incidentally, I thank her for her collaboration and trust in my work, as she voted, in due course, for almost all resolutions.
Conclusion: I request an independent audit to establish the entire truth against false accusations. I wrote a letter to Philippe Pradal, the new president, to contest them. As of today, it remains unanswered. If this remains the case, justice will decide.
I feel sorry for Philippe Pradal, who lends himself to this action. He was an administrator of the company beside me, and I did not make any strategic decision without discussing it with him beforehand. So… He and I are not career politicians; we engaged in public life to contribute. I must note, with bitterness, that he has learned the script well, and rather quickly.
Aristotle said that man is “a social animal.” The adjective is precious and must be preserved in all circumstances. Its absence, by forgetfulness or will, leaves us with a noun that does not honor us as beings endowed with reason.
Is it so difficult to have an electoral campaign without low blows where each candidate competes by demonstrating their abilities without necessarily trying to bring the other down by alleged failings?
