Catherine Pégard, the former president of the Versailles Palace, defended the Louvre New Renaissance plan, which involves renovating the existing building and creating a new space for the Mona Lisa, as a response to the institution’s dysfunctions. She stressed the plan’s necessity to ensure the Louvre remains the world’s largest museum in the 21st century, just as it was in the 20th century.
However, she mentioned that certain aspects of the plan may need adjustments, emphasizing the importance of security considerations. Pégard acknowledged that budget restrictions posed challenges but expressed her commitment to safeguarding the current budget for 2027 and securing additional subsidies urgently needed.
Regarding the public audiovisual sector, Pégard mentioned the importance of not abandoning the idea of a common holding for France Télévisions, Radio France, and INA. Despite acknowledging that a reform law is not imminent, she stressed the importance of improving the functioning of the public service.
Pégard also criticized the ongoing parliamentary inquiry into the financing and neutrality of the public audiovisual sector, emphasizing the need for constructive dialogue and mutual respect to uphold democracy and respectful discourse.
