While François Bayrou and the Government have launched an unprecedented budgetary austerity plan to contain public debt, Charles Ange Ginésy, president of the Alpes-Maritimes department, published an op-ed defending the role of local authorities. He calls for a shared effort and a true structural change in the State.
In an op-ed published last week, Charles Ange Ginésy reacts to the 43.8 billion euro savings plan announced by the Prime Minister. While the goal of reducing the deficit is deemed legitimate, he warns of the consequences for the territories. According to him, local authorities are already contributing and cannot absorb an additional budgetary effort without risks.
“The demand for five billion more from local authorities is a misunderstanding,” he writes, reminding that they account for 70% of public investment. In the midst of a purchasing power crisis, he emphasizes their essential role in local solidarity.
The department president refuses that decentralization becomes an adjustment variable. He calls for respect for the principle of free administration of local authorities, guaranteed by the Constitution. “This cornerstone of our Republic cannot be sacrificed on the altar of austerity,” he asserts.
Structural reforms rather than blind cuts
The op-ed comes in a context marked by the launch of the “Stop the Debt” plan. This plan includes notably the elimination of 3,000 public jobs, a reform of long-term illness reimbursements, a reduction of state agencies, and a freeze on social benefits.
The measures are concerning, especially in territories where public action largely relies on local authorities. For Charles Ange Ginésy, these decisions are not enough. He calls for a more global approach, with three priority axes: restoring meaning to work, reforming the pension system with a part of capitalization, and strengthening the local level.
He also criticizes some government proposals, such as the removal of two public holidays, which he believes would penalize the tourism activity, essential in departments like Alpes-Maritimes. “Removing two public holidays or reducing purchasing power is not up to the challenges,” he writes.
The op-ed advocates for a reciprocity pact: territories will contribute to the effort, but the State must also reform, reduce its scope, and refocus on its core missions.
A call for collective responsibility
In the background, the Head of State and the Prime Minister are seeking to contain a public debt that now exceeds 3,300 billion euros. The plan aims for a return to a deficit below 3% by 2029. But this budgetary refocusing requires a change of approach, which Charles Ange Ginésy calls for.
He warns against “budgetary stopgaps” and emphasizes the need for “bold, courageous reforms.” The goal: to restore confidence and rekindle hope, relying on those who, every day, ensure the continuity of local public services.
His op-ed marks a strong stance in a debate that promises to be tense between the State and local authorities. While everyone is called upon to make an effort, the question remains of how to distribute the burden fairly, without further weakening the territories.
“France faces a moment of historical truth,” he concludes. A clear message to the executive, on the eve of decisions that will reshape the institutional and economic landscape of the country.
