Recent investigations by VRT journalists have revealed significant flaws in the integration allowance system at the Anderlecht CPAS, based on numerous testimonies from affected individuals.

A social worker highlighted that integration incomes were granted to individuals who had never been seen by the CPAS and did not even reside in Anderlecht, labeling the organization as a 'sieve'.

In a troubling demonstration of the system's vulnerabilities, two young journalists managed to deceive the CPAS by falsely claiming residency and receiving social aid despite having sufficient income.

The lack of mandatory home visits for applications, along with the absence of requests for bank statements or proof of residency, further underscores the systemic issues at the CPAS.

Concerns about clientelism in allocation distributions have emerged, with reports suggesting that some individuals received aid based on political connections rather than genuine need.

Fabrice Cumps, the mayor of Anderlecht, acknowledged these issues and has called for a thorough investigation into the dysfunctions in individual case management, alongside a demand for adequate federal funding for CPAS in major cities.

In response to the growing concerns, Karine Lalieux, the federal minister for social affairs, criticized the management at Anderlecht's CPAS and announced plans for enhanced support and controls, hinting at possible sanctions for delays in allocations.

The CPAS committee's decision in 2023 to overturn 100 out of 150 social worker recommendations regarding allocations starkly contrasts with the 90% agreement rates seen in cities like Ghent and Antwerp.

The first half of 2024 saw the CPAS facing double the number of hearings compared to the previous year, raising suspicions of manipulation during an election year.

CPAS workers have attributed the lax control measures to an overwhelming workload that has been increasing over time, complicating their ability to manage cases effectively.

A critical report from SPP Integration in 2023 pointed to worsening conditions at the CPAS, highlighting excessive delays and inadequate social investigations.

The upcoming parliamentary debate is expected to be contentious, with calls for accountability and the potential for further revelations of misconduct within the CPAS.