Day of action by building tradespeople, dissatisfied with MaPrimeRénov' and the REP

Armed with placards and wearing yellow vests, several artisans, like 42-year-old Aurélie Christiaens, spoke of a "feeling of not being listened to at all" by the government. She said she was "disgusted" by the current situation.

On Wednesday, Capeb had planned around thirty other similar actions in France, such as in Metz, Montpellier or Strasbourg, to protest against the changes to the energy renovation aid MaPrimeRénov', the malfunctions of the materials recycling system (REP) and to demand a reform of the micro-enterprise regime.

In Lille, representatives of Capeb Nord were to be received by the prefect in the early afternoon.

And the president of the Capeb at the national level, Jean-Christophe Repon, is due to speak with the Minister of Housing Vincent Jeanbrun at the end of the day.

"Simpler and more stable systems are needed" for artisans, argues Mr. Repon, who was present at the morning rally in Lille.

He mentions three main demands: better "access to the MaPrimeRénov' market for VSEs (very small businesses, editor's note)" and a "simplification" of administrative procedures.

"In Toulon, with zero employees, I have the same administrative files as Bouygues," denounces the man who is also a master electrician.

Capeb surveyed its members on their position regarding MaPrimeRénov' and states that 62% of the 5.000 respondents experienced a loss of activity following the latest changes to this scheme (suspension then tightening of eligibility criteria).

Capeb also calls for a truly effective extended producer responsibility in the building sector (EPR PMCB), as for most of its members, this system which came into force in 2023 has not simplified waste management, reduced its cost or changed their waste collection practices.

"We pay, the service isn't there, and now they're asking us to pay more," Mr. Repon complained.

Illustrative image of the article via Depositphotos.com.