Due to these accusations the CSV requested information on the precautions taken by Luxembourg’s government regarding Orpea’s authorisation to open a care centre in the country. Photo: Shutterstock.

Due to these accusations the CSV requested information on the precautions taken by Luxembourg’s government regarding Orpea’s authorisation to open a care centre in the country.  Photo: Shutterstock.

Following a request by the CSV, Luxembourg’s commission for family and integration discussed the possible establishment in the country of assisted living company Orpea, which is the subject of allegations of abuse of in its care homes in France.

A book by journalist Victor Castanet published on 26 January is the source of the allegations against Orpea, which applied for approval to open its first care home in Luxembourg on 18 January.

Following the accusations, the CSV requested information on the precautions taken by the Luxembourg government regarding Orpea’s authorisation to open a care centre in the country. Family minister Corinne Cahen (DP), who will ultimately take the decision on the company’s licence, stressed that every establishment operating in the sector needs to respect the legislation related to gaining authorisation. An amendment to the current law is underway and envisions stricter conditions in the future. It aims for more transparency regarding the pricing of services being offered by the provider, for example.

During the discussions a member of parliament cited reports in French media that Orpea intends to expand by buying other care networks. This has raised concern whether Luxembourg’s retirement infrastructure can resist such an acquisition strategy by Orpea, which is a world leader in the sector.

Cahen confirmed to Delano’s sister publication Paperjam that Orpea’s application had indeed been submitted on 18 January.

The company’s CEO, Jean-Christophe Romersi has been summoned by French minister for the autonomy of the elderly Brigitte Bourguignon. He will respond to the accusations of abuse of elderly people in Orpea’s establishments on Tuesday 1 February.

Additional reporting by Ioanna Schimizzi.