Launch of the first Gard observatory for crafts and liberal professions: “There are simple measures to take quickly”

Christophe Hardy, président de l’U2P 30, a co-présenté le projet. Midi Libre – Pierre Meuriot

This observatory must prove to be an essential tool to counter the problems of employment, training and social responsibility encountered by Gard craft businesses.

This Friday, March 29, the Union of Local Businesses (U2P 30) launched its first observatory of crafts and liberal professions. The event, which brought together political representatives and artisans, highlighted three essential themes with which crafts are confronted: ecological transition, employment and training.

S’en is followed by a round table around the themes mentioned, moderated by Olivier Biscaye, editorial director of Midi Libre.

"We believe in full employment"

At the Le Partage restaurant, the debate began with the presentation of the very first observatory of crafts and liberal professions. Jaouid Fouila, secretary general of the Confederation of the ;crafts and small construction companies (Capeb) and Christophe Hardy, president of U2P 30, presented the outlines of this innovative project.

"Three decisive themes have been identified, and we will respond to them through the establishment of working groups", declared Jaouid Fouila, after giving a quick portrait of craftsmanship in the Gard. Among these themes, the ecological transition occupied a central place, with references to extended producer responsibilities (REP) , low-emission zones (ZFE), and decarbonization. "We are convinced of full employment", continued the Secretary General of Capeb, highlighting the challenge of a skills shortage rather than labor. Finally, the question of training was raised, questioning the adequacy of training with a constantly evolving sector.

A round table between parliamentarians and artisans

A round table bringing together parliamentarians and artisans then took place, under the leadership of Olivier Biscaye, editorial director of Midi Libre. The deputies of the National Rally, led by Yoann Gilet, expressed their support for the project presented. "Crafts need it. There are simple, common-sense measures to take quickly." Pascale Bordes and Pierre Meurin placed the emphasis respectively on  "the importance of professional training" and on the complementary standards which complicate the work of artisans " like EPZs". Laurent Burgoa, senator from Gard, underlined the need to bring work back to the taste of our society.

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The artisans also spoke, expressing their concerns and their expectations of the parliamentarians. Damien Fernandez, in the building industry for 20 years, pointed out the challenges posed by national education: "We have a problem at the level of education. national education. Today I find myself with young people who want to be content creators and not artisans", he declared. For his part, the upholsterer Christian Bourdon called for "protection of parliamentarians for certain artistic crafts" threatened with disappearance.

By launching this innovative project, L’U2P 30 is doing everything possible to be a facilitating intermediary between local businesses and Gard parliamentarians in order to make their voice heard by the public. National Assembly and Senate.