The Minister of Labor, Muriel Pénicaud, provided an initial assessment of this suspicion which is alarming in more than one way.
“3,000 inspections that led to 850 suspicions of fraud.” This concerns only the “closed” cases. According to the ministry, there have been 12,000 inspections since May 22, including 400 that were initiated following reports from trade unions and employees.
Inspections are going to increase
Muriel Pénicaud aims to reach the target of 50,000 inspections by the end of the summer. They will be conducted by the agents of the Direccte (regional directorates for enterprises, competition, consumption, labor, and employment).
In the event of proven fraud, the offender will face a fine of 30,000 euros and two years of imprisonment. Additionally, they will no longer be eligible for aid for up to five years and will also be required to repay all amounts received.
