Anderlecht (Brussels Morning Newspaper): The OCMW of Anderlecht is criticized for giving financial help to people who don’t need it, including two Pano editors. Minister Karine Lalieux and chairman Lotfi Mostefa are being questioned as social workers worry about proper checks on aid given to over 5,000 people.
OCMW of Anderlecht is facing criticism for giving financial support to people who shouldn’t be getting it. A report from Pano magazine revealed that two editors received living wage help even though they don’t live in Anderlecht or have money problems. Social workers are concerned that energy support is being given out without checking if people need it. Some troubling cases include a woman who was still getting support months after she died and another who received help after moving to Rwanda. The OCMW helped over 5,000 people with energy bills, but the amounts were small, ranging from 70 to 160 euros.
Why is the OCMW giving energy subsidies without eligibility checks?
Pano is asking why the OCMW is giving energy subsidies without checking if people qualify and why some funds are delayed. They haven’t received a response from Chairman Lotfi Mostefa after trying to reach him. Social workers think the government is being misled, as OCMWs feel they must spend their subsidies to get more next year. The Anderlecht OCMW has also seen a big jump in funding, raising concerns about Minister Karine Lalieux’s choices.
The Anderlecht OCMW is under investigation for giving financial support without clear rules. Some people who don’t need help are receiving funds, even after energy prices decreased. A lawyer says it’s important to check if the money is being spent properly. Social workers are worried that the aid should go to those in real need, as many vulnerable people depend on this support.
