Kurt De Loor Calls for Investigation into Alter Over Registration Delays

Alter (Eurotoday) – Flemish MP Kurt De Loor (Vooruit) is calling for an investigation into Alter over delays in processing registrations. Minister Hilde Crevits (CD&V) blames federal Minister Bernard Quintin, who argues that the responsibility lies with Flanders. Audit Flanders is currently investigating the matter.

Kurt De Loor, a Flemish politician, has raised concerns about the agency “Alter” and is pushing for an inquiry into its operations. He believes the agency is failing to assist foreign nationals in registering properly in Belgium. De Loor has called for a probe to determine whether Alter is violating regulations, a view shared by other politicians. 

The issue came to light after a whistleblower informed journalists that individuals attempting to register with Alter were not receiving proof of their applications. The whistleblower claimed that registration delays occurred because local authorities required home inspections before processing applications. This resulted in delays lasting several months.

I find these very important facts because this is about integrity.

Flemish Parliament member Kurt De Loor (Vooruit)

Who is responsible for resolving Alter’s registration delays?

De Loor has expressed serious concerns regarding the allegations against Alter, arguing that the agency has not been transparent about its handling of registrations. He believes these issues raise fundamental questions about the fairness of the registration process. He was particularly critical of Minister De Crem’s response, calling it “outrageous” and suggesting that De Crem sees himself as above scrutiny. De Loor believes De Crem’s reaction demonstrates a lack of accountability. 

The controversy has sparked wider political debate, with more politicians voicing concerns about Alter’s operations. The issue has gained traction in the Flemish Parliament, prompting Minister of Home Affairs Hilde Crevits (CD&V) to take action. She has already tasked Audit Flanders with investigating the case. 

It is important that there is sufficient insight into facts against representatives.

According to Crevits.

It is a healthy and general principle to wait for the facts to be found.

Flemish Minister Hilde Crevits has strongly criticized federal Interior Minister Bernard Quintin’s remarks about the Aalter situation. Crevits contends that the Flemish government was not informed of complaints regarding Aalter’s registration procedures. She expressed surprise that Quintin told the federal parliament the responsibility falls on the Flemish government to address the matter. 

Quintin defended his stance, stating that the federal government had indeed received complaints about Aalter. He explained that discussions were held with Aalter’s local authorities regarding the issue. However, he stressed that the federal government lacks the authority to impose sanctions on Aalter. 

Quintin reiterated that the responsibility lies with the Flemish government, specifically the Agency for Home Affairs for Flanders. While the federal government acknowledges the problem and has engaged in discussions with Aalter’s authorities, they maintain that it is up to the Flemish government to take corrective action.

Crevits stated,

At no point did the FPS Home Affairs signal these issues to our Flemish administration of Home Affairs. No general letters were sent and no specific complaints were submitted.