Minister of State holds September press conference

© Manuel Vitali / Direction de la Communication

Serge Telle, accompanied by Secretary-General of the Government Robert Colle, held a press conference this afternoon, at which a number of topics were addressed.

Firstly, the Minister of State discussed the Jardins d’Apolline issue, a top priority for the Government, stating that “we are not seeking to save money but to take action.” He reiterated that every effort had been made to identify appropriate solutions. On the legal side, he noted that an application for an interlocutory injunction was made on 21 July and that an expert had been appointed to rule on the failings, liabilities and costs, and to assess the damages incurred by the State. The expert assessment began on 1 September and will not impede the work which is being carried out in parallel.

The Minister of State then discussed the amended budget. In keeping with the preliminary budget adopted in autumn 2016, it reflects the control the Government is seeking to maintain over public expenditure. A special Treasury account has been opened for the costs associated with the Jardins d’Apolline situation. This will ensure traceability of the sums involved.

Finally, while figures for August are not yet known, Serge Telle confirmed that the tourism industry had enjoyed a successful summer season, with the occupancy rate estimated at 85%. In July, the price per night remained at the 2016 level of EUR 386, and the occupancy rate reached 78.72%.