Several Lebanese ministers spoke to reporters on the sidelines of today’s Cabinet session. Here are some of their remarks.
Education: Arbitration Councils Are Working and Monitoring
On school fee increases, Education and Higher Education Minister Dr. Rima Karami said the arbitration councils are working and monitoring the situation. She was responding to a question about the ministry’s role in tackling the arbitrary increases that families complain about.
Labor: Higher Transport Allowance and Minimum Wage Increase
On the cost of living, Labor Minister Mohammad Haidar spoke about raising the transport allowance. He also revealed that work is under way to raise the minimum wage. He was answering a question about whether an increase would go ahead.
Justice: Judicial Appointments Were Based on Judicial Considerations
On the judicial appointments, Justice Minister Adel Nassar stressed that they were based on considerations related to the judiciary. They were not the result of political or party quotas. He was responding to a question about whether the appointments were made with integrity.
Finance: No Taxes
On public finances, Finance Minister Yassine Jaber denied any intention to impose taxes. He said, “There are no taxes.”
Interior: Comment on Reports About the Security Agencies
Interior and Municipalities Minister Ahmad Hajjar commented on reports that the president had asked the security agencies not to take part in the second anniversary commemoration of Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah’s death.
Tourism: Comment on Reports of a Cabinet Reshuffle
Tourism Minister Laura Khazen Lahoud commented on circulating reports of a cabinet reshuffle that includes her name.
