Belgian minister proposes "leverage plan" to address urgent needs in justice system
Justice minister Annelies Verlinden (CD&V) has presented a "leverage plan" aimed at easing some of the acute problems in the justice system. Under the plan, justice staff will be eligible for improved seniority recognition, meal vouchers, a teleworking allowance and increased bilingualism premiums.
Dissatisfaction within the justice system has been mounting since the federal government announced plans last spring to cut magistrates’ pensions. That reform was seen as the final straw in a sector already struggling with poor infrastructure, staff shortages and declining job appeal.
In recent weeks, Verlinden met with sector representatives in four thematic working groups, resulting in the new action plan. "That does not take away the urgency of the structural reforms and investments, but it does form a lever that can already provide oxygen and perspective," she said.
The plan does not address the pension reform, currently under the responsibility of N-VA deputy prime minister Jan Jambon, but focuses instead on improving working conditions, building infrastructure and staff safety.
"The justice system itself must not give reason to weaken confidence in its functioning and justice"
Key measures include meal vouchers, a teleworking allowance and enhanced bilingualism premiums. Seniority rules will also be updated, allowing trainee magistrates to carry over their full seniority, no longer capped at two years. A comparative study on remuneration in the sector is also planned.
According to Verlinden, funding for the plan is already secured through the coalition agreement and the government’s Easter budget deal. She acknowledged the sector’s discontent but urged continuity of service, saying, "Where we ask the citizens to trust justice, the justice system itself must not give reason to weaken confidence in its functioning and justice."
Justice minister Annelies Verlinden ©BELGA PHOTO NICOLAS MAETERLINCK
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