Ah, Alsace and its very special place within the Grand Est! The Wœrth report on decentralization sheds unexpected light on this region with a rich heritage. What surprises does it hold for us? Fasten your seatbelts, as we are about to discover together the secrets unveiled by this long-awaited document!
Report on Decentralization: Maintaining the Grand Est with Strengthening the European Community of Alsace
The report on the avenues for improving decentralization in France, written by Eric Wœrth, was made public on Thursday, May 30. One of the main recommendations of the report concerns Alsace, which should remain within the Grand Est region, while strengthening the European Community of Alsace. This proposal has sparked mixed reactions among elected officials who were in favor of a redistricting.
Maintaining the European Community of Alsace with Strengthened Competencies
The report by Eric Wœrth presents the European Community of Alsace as an entity already possessing enhanced capacity for action. Nevertheless, the report suggests examining the possibility of transferring or delegating new competencies, such as the management of high schools, crafts, and local commerce. These proposals aim to reinforce the role of the European Community of Alsace within the Grand Est region.
Divisions Among Elected Officials on Redistricting
The recommendation to keep Alsace in the Grand Est has elicited divergent reactions among elected officials. Some, like Brigitte Klinkert, a deputy from Haut-Rhin, support this proposal and encourage negotiations to obtain new competencies for Alsace. Others, like Eric Straumann, mayor of Colmar, are unhappy with the report, lamenting the lack of proposals aimed at reducing administrative levels, a measure that had support from the President of the Republic.
Report in Line with Emmanuel Macron’s Statements
The recommendations of Eric Wœrth’s report align with statements already made by Emmanuel Macron during his visit to Strasbourg last month. The President of the Republic had dismissed the idea of a redistricting of the Grand Est and encouraged negotiations to obtain new competencies for Alsace. Thus, the publication of the report seems to confirm the course set by the head of state.
Awaiting Reactions from Supporters of Alsace Leaving the Grand Est
Frédéric Bierry, a staunch advocate for Alsace’s exit from the Grand Est, has chosen not to respond to Eric Wœrth’s report for the moment. He will speak during the presentation of the manifesto for Alsace, which will take place in Strasbourg on Friday, May 31. Accompanied by 150 elected officials, he will have the opportunity to share his vision and propose alternative solutions to those recommended in the report. Reactions from supporters of Alsace leaving the Grand Est will therefore be eagerly awaited.