Nice Premiere: In a nutshell, what is the State-Region project?
Rudy Salles: The new project contract which replaces the State-Region contract aims to focus on major projects and thus avoid scattering resources. Additionally, it is a phased contract with European Funds, which represents a plus for our investments.
NP: What actors does it involve?
RS: Previously, the major actors were 3 (State-Region-Local Communities) but the latter, particularly the municipalities, were not at the same level as the Regions. This time, equality has been restored, which is a plus for the local communities involved, as they will be able to make their voices heard more effectively.
NP: When will it be implemented?
RS: The implementation is planned for January 1, 2007.
NP: What changes in terms of power sharing between the State and the Region?
RS: Nothing will really change in terms of power sharing between the State and the Region.
NP: What will change in terms of budget management?
RS: Nothing will change in the management of budgets, except that European Funds will be included.
NP: Will the project affect education, culture, health?
RS: There will be no impact on education, culture, or health as far as I know.
NP: What changes for the taxpayer?
RS: Nothing will change for the taxpayer.
NP: What changes in terms of decentralization?
RS: Regarding decentralization, the innovation is that local communities will be on equal footing with the Region and can therefore be better heard.
NP: Are we heading towards a potential creation of states within the state, like the Länder in Germany?
RS: There is no comparison with the German Länder. Our Regions are far less significant in terms of powers and budgets.
NP: Can we expect objections from the PACA Region?
RS: We can expect objections from the PACA Region as the Left has decided to turn this matter into a political issue just a few months before the Presidential elections…
NP: Are you for or against this project?
RS: We (UDF) hope that this project succeeds because it is crucial for the future of our Region and for the realization of important projects for its future and for the well-being of its residents.
