Kortrijk (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Chiro groups in Kortrijk warn budget cuts could affect youth work as Ro-Chiro faces losing €8,000 subsidies and €2,000 energy aid, while Felix De Clerck considers building-based support.
As VRT News reported, Chiro groups in Kortrijk are raising concerns about the city’s planned budget cuts, warning that the decision could hit their daily operations hard. A branch such as Ro-Chiro receives €8,000 in subsidies each year, with half of that amount set aside for operating expenses like new play equipment for children.
The city also provides €2,000 annually to cover energy and water bills. They mentioned that if that support is taken away, the youth groups will need to pay the costs themselves, and half of their budget for activities would be lost.
According to leader Jasper Deschamps, this means there would be less money to invest in children and their programs. He points out that raising membership fees is not an option, as the movement wants to keep participation affordable for every family.
What will Kortrijk’s budget cuts mean for Chiro youth work?
Yesterday, Aug 21, 2025, the leaders of Ro-Chiro and Chiro Tandem released an open letter on behalf of all Chiro groups in Greater Kortrijk. The letter was addressed to youth councillor Felix De Clerck of Team Mayor, Stadslijst Kortrijk, and expressed concern over the city’s budget decisions. The youth movements warn that taking on the full cost of energy will place a heavy strain on their limited budgets.
They point out that the problem is especially serious for groups based in old and poorly insulated classrooms, where energy bills are far higher. The Chiro leaders ask the city to recognise the gap between branches in modern, renovated spaces and those still relying on outdated facilities. Their message is clear: without help, the added burden could undermine the quality of activities and the accessibility of youth work across the city.
“But I want to discuss everything thoroughly in the city council and also together with the youth council and the youth movements,”
says Felix De Clerk.
Youth councillor Felix De Clerck responded by confirming that the city must move forward with significant savings, and that youth groups will be asked to cover their own energy costs. He admitted, however, that the Chiro leaders had raised a fair point about old buildings.
De Clerck suggested that the city should look at a system that treats youth groups differently depending on the state of their buildings. He argued that those in recently renovated facilities could be expected to contribute more than those in outdated halls.
At the same time, he stressed that investment in youth infrastructure will not stop. Plans for new buildings, including for 3 Chiro branches in Kortrijk, will continue despite the broader savings plan.
“The city wants us to pay all our own energy costs so we’d be more energy-conscious. But in poorly insulated classrooms or classrooms that don’t yet have double glazing, it’s impossible to conserve energy.”
Jasper Deschamps
Chiro has been active in Belgium since 1934 and has grown into the country’s largest youth movement with branches across Flanders and Brussels. The group began with Catholic roots but developed into an open movement focused on play, creativity, and community.
Local branches often settled in parish halls or former classrooms, many of which are now outdated and costly to heat. For decades, Chiro has kept membership fees low because of subsidies, fundraising, and the dedication of volunteers.
