Marie-Claire Carrère-Gée, a loyal member of the Les Républicains party, was unexpectedly appointed as the Minister Delegate for Government Coordination by Prime Minister Michel Barnier on September 21, 2024. This new position was created to help streamline and coordinate government actions and report directly to the Prime Minister. Carrère-Gée will be responsible for ensuring that the government’s projects are carried out quickly, smoothly, and effectively to meet the expectations of the French people. This move is seen as a way to bring cohesion to the diverse mix of Macronistes and Republicans within the government.
During a meeting with the group presidents of the “common base” on September 25, Michel Barnier highlighted the benefits of this new position, which is meant to facilitate communication and cooperation among ministers who come from different backgrounds, including political rivals. The role of Minister Delegate for Government Coordination is seen as a political one, with Carrère-Gée being described as the “conductor” of the government, tasked with injecting a sense of collective responsibility into the administration. Despite initial disagreements between Macronistes and Republicans, Carrère-Gée aims to foster unity and collaboration within the government.
Marie-Claire Carrère-Gée, a former deputy secretary-general at the Elysée during Jacques Chirac’s presidency, is known for her strong character and loyalty. She describes herself as a “social Gaullist” and has a long history of working on public policies related to disabilities and road safety. Her close relationship with Michel Barnier, whom she supported during the 2021 Republican primary campaign, played a key role in her appointment to the government. Despite facing obstacles from Nicolas Sarkozy’s allies in the past, Carrère-Gée’s dedication to Chirac and her commitment to her political beliefs have now brought her to a prominent position in the government.
As the Minister Delegate for Government Coordination, Carrère-Gée will work closely with Prime Minister Michel Barnier, alongside Minister for Parliamentary Relations Nathalie Delattre and Government Spokesperson Maud Bregeon. Unlike her two colleagues, Carrère-Gée has a personal connection to Barnier and has a history of working closely with him. Her role involves ensuring that the government’s projects are carried out efficiently and effectively, reflecting the priorities and objectives of the Prime Minister. This challenging position requires a balance of political acumen and administrative skills.
Marie-Claire Carrère-Gée’s appointment as the Minister Delegate for Government Coordination marks a significant development within the French government, with the creation of a new position meant to streamline and improve coordination among ministers. Her background as a dedicated and experienced public servant, as well as her loyalty to Michel Barnier and her political beliefs, make her a fitting choice for this role. As she steps into this challenging position, Carrère-Gée will be tasked with fostering collaboration and unity within the government to ensure the successful implementation of key projects and initiatives.
