Tourism Authority: Bérenger and Duval Clash Over Layoffs

The Ministry of Tourism has become a "mess." This is how Paul Bérenger, the leader of the MMM, described the situation during his press conference on Saturday, March 7, provoking a strong reaction from Minister Richard Duval, who expressed his frustration over recent events.

At the heart of the controversy are the layoffs of four individuals at the Tourism Authority (TA), including José Arunasalon, the chairman of the board, which occurred without any discussion in the Cabinet. Among the four were also two private sector members serving on the TA board and a collaborator of Minister Duval, who was dismissed following a disagreement with him. Bérenger reacted strongly after learning about these layoffs at the end of the weekly council meeting, especially since the minister had claimed that everything was fine within the organization. He conveyed to the Prime Minister that "a country cannot be run this way."

The dismissal letters were later withdrawn. Three of the four individuals retained their positions, while José Arunasalon was suspended pending an investigation into allegations of workplace harassment. Bérenger clarified that while sexual harassment accusations were initially mentioned in a phone conversation between Richard Duval and the Prime Minister, it was ultimately established that this was not the case. Bérenger also indicated that he himself had called for Arunasalon’s suspension while awaiting the investigation’s conclusions: "If he deserves to be dismissed, he should be dismissed, but let’s conduct an investigation first," he reportedly told the Prime Minister. He emphasized that the MMM was not involved in José Arunasalon's appointment to the TA, which was made by Minister Duval.

Richard Duval, on his part, believes that a person who "has mistreated employees" already has grounds for dismissal. He asserts that he has never acted based on unfounded allegations and guarantees he does not interfere in his colleagues' affairs: "I focus on my ministry," he stated, adding that he would not tolerate any wrongdoing.

Echoing Bérenger’s remarks, opposition leader Joe Lesjongard broadened the discussion: he claimed it is not just the Ministry of Tourism that is a "mess," but the entire government.

The former director of the TA, Lindsay Morvan, calls for a swift resolution, reminding everyone that the institution's effective operation relies on "a good team spirit and mutual respect, regardless of each person’s position."