Brussels (Brussels Morning – May 8, 2023) CD&V chairman Sammy Mahdi has issued a stern warning, declaring that his party will refuse to join the next Flemish government unless the Growth Package, particularly the child benefit, is fully indexed. This statement comes amidst mounting discontent within the party regarding its credibility on child support issues.
Is CD&V’s Credibility on Child Benefits at Stake?
Flemish Member of Parliament Immanuel De Reuse has lambasted CD&V, stating, “CD&V no longer has any credibility when it comes to child support.” De Reuse pointedly blames former Minister of Welfare Wouter Beke for compromising on child benefit indexation during his tenure. The decision to abandon indexation, previously a key demand of the Christian Democrats, has sparked accusations of prioritizing political positions over principles within the party.
In a recent appearance on “The Seventh Day” on VRT 1, Mahdi reaffirmed his party’s stance on the Growth Package, emphasizing the need to bolster child benefits. He asserted that CD&V will stand firm on this issue and will not participate in the next Flemish government unless the Growth Package is fully indexed. Mahdi’s uncompromising stance signals a potential rift within the government coalition if CD&V’s demands are not met.
Vlaams Belang Advocates for Increased Growth Package with Conditions
Meanwhile, Vlaams Belang has voiced support for increasing the Growth Package but with certain conditions attached. De Reuse explained, “We have always opposed non-indexation as a flat savings measure.” However, he stressed the importance of ensuring that child benefits are utilized for the education of Flemish children. Vlaams Belang proposes linking the allocation of child benefits to proficiency in Dutch as a means of safeguarding their intended purpose.
Despite CD&V’s renewed emphasis on child benefits, skepticism remains regarding the party’s commitment to its principles. De Reuse disparagingly remarked, “Under Mahdi’s presidency, the Christian Democrats have become spineless molluscs.” The accusations of inconsistency echo criticisms leveled against CD&V in the past, raising questions about the party’s prioritization of political expediency over its stated principles.
