Senate tensions over Corsican report

Paulu Santu Parigi, a senator from the Femu a Corsica group and part of the centrist Union group, described the Senate atmosphere as tense ahead of a major report on Corsican autonomy. He noted that the proposed legislation is facing challenges due to other pressing issues in the national parliament and recent mainland events.

Parliamentary priorities and political maneuvering

Santu Parigi explained that while conditions are not ideal, efforts are being made to secure a Senate majority through discussions with Gilles Simeoni and Nanette Maupertuis across political groups. He suggested that some members of Les Républicains, the majority group in the Senate, may be seeking revenge for past events.

Likely split vote and need for intervention

He indicated that the vote is likely to be split unless high-profile figures like Gérard Larcher and Bruno Retailleau step in to block the process. He emphasized that the current situation is at a 50-50 balance and that the discussion has moved beyond constitutional matters to more contentious issues.

Constitutionalists and political group stances

Santu Parigi warned of dangerous trends and the influence of constitutionalists opposing changes in Corsica. He noted that the Union centrist group, with 63 members, would be pivotal in the vote, with the RDPI group (15 members) and the Ecologists supporting the bill.

Divided opposition and uncertain majority

The Socialists are divided, the Communists are reportedly against the bill, and the RN group (15 members) is expected to vote against it. The LR group, with 124 of 348 senators, remains uncertain in their stance. He expressed concern that a right-wing majority against the bill would be a significant setback.

Amendments and procedural uncertainty

He mentioned that no amendments have been submitted to the Commission des lois so far, suggesting they may be reserved for the public session. He noted uncertainty about whether the president of the Commission des lois will put the report to a vote and that the commission's report may be routine.

Concerns over personal attacks and regional autonomy

Santu Parigi highlighted fears that the debate could devolve into personal attacks fueled by some constitutionalists opposed to the text, while others like Géraldine Charlier and Wanda Mastor support it. He referenced the experience of Mme Chavrier, who faced similar challenges in implementing local adaptations in Île-de-France.

Questioning Senate's stance on Corsican autonomy

He questioned why the Senate, as the chamber of territories, would be hostile to Corsican autonomy, suggesting it would be a first for the chamber to reject the will of a territory.