Éric Lombard Advocates for Workforce Immigration and Economic Pragmatism, Opposing Bruno Retailleau’s Statements

During his appearance on LCI this Sunday, January 26, Minister of Economy and Finance Éric Lombard expressed positions that diverged from those of Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau. Retailleau recently stated that “immigration is not a benefit for France.” In contrast, Éric Lombard declared, “We need workforce immigration; entrepreneurs want it, and, in fact, it is already happening.” He emphasized that such immigration is essential to fill positions in companies, factories, and hospitals, adding that France must “of course” remain a country open to economic immigration.

Acknowledging that a government can hold differing perspectives, Lombard clarified, “This is not my view of immigration.” He highlighted a “polyphony” within the executive branch, as Retailleau continues to push for stricter regularization criteria.

Working More and Adjusting Social Spending

Beyond immigration, Éric Lombard addressed other key economic issues, notably the need to reduce social spending. He questioned the necessity of fully reimbursing certain medical expenses for high-income individuals and called for limiting healthcare expenditures, particularly on medication, noting that France is “the world’s largest consumer of antidepressants.”

Regarding the proposal to work an additional day per year to finance social spending, the minister acknowledged widespread political opposition but reaffirmed his support for “finding ways and means to work more.”

Pensions: Balancing Pragmatism and Solidarity

On pension reform, Lombard reiterated that while a capitalization system is relevant, “it will likely not be a central component” of current discussions between social partners. He noted that it is unlikely the retirement age will return to 62 but stressed the importance of allowing earlier retirements for those in physically demanding jobs or those who started working at a young age.

“If, for reasons of national solidarity, we allow some employees to retire earlier, we must also find those willing to work longer,” he concluded, advocating for a balanced and realistic approach to upcoming reforms.