The mayor of Gatineau, France Bélisle, surprised more than one by announcing her resignation on Thursday, which she explained, among other things, by the difficult political climate for municipal politicians.
During a press briefing in front of journalists, Mr.me Bélisle announced with emotion that she was leaving her position to “preserve (her) health for the future” and “preserve her integrity”.
She said the role of mayor had been her most wonderful job, but also the most difficult of her life.
Mme Bélisle also invited the Quebec government to reflect “on this exodus of municipal elected officials, but also on all elections by acclamation”.
“I think we should all be concerned about a public service that is no longer popular,” she stressed.
Mme Bélisle leaves his post immediately. Municipal councilor Daniel Champagne will replace her for the moment.
France Bélisle was elected mayor of Gatineau for the first time in November 2021, becoming the first woman to assume this position.
In a press release, the Union of Municipalities of Quebec (UMQ) paid tribute to Mr.me Bélisle.
“France is a determined person, driven by the duty of commitment and endowed with deep values,” said the president of the UMQ, Martin Damphousse.
“Her openness and great empathy make her a notable figure in the municipal world, always ready to make changes and defend the values of equality and social causes, even in the most difficult contexts. »
Prime Minister François Legault also greeted the former mayor. “I want to thank France Bélisle for her years of service as mayor of Gatineau. I wish him the best for the future,” he wrote on the X platform.
André Fortin, the Liberal MP for Pontiac, in Outaouais, showed his respect and admiration for Mme Bélisle.
“She has moved our city forward. Although she leaves with a heavy heart, she can also leave with her head held high,” he argued on X.