Quebec Launches New Helpline for Politicians After Hundreds Quit Office Since 2021
Published on February 28, 2024
Quebec is committing $2 million to connect politicians and their families with psychological aid after a wave of resignations and leaves of absence among elected municipal officials. A new telephone helpline is available starting on Feb. 28 for politicians in need of assistance, after almost 10 percent have quit since the 2021 municipal elections. Quebec says the helpline is part of a multi-year plan to improve working conditions for local leaders, but today’s announcement comes just one week after the abrupt resignation of the mayor of Gatineau. France Bélisle cited a hostile work environment, including death threats from members of the public, in her decision to step down from the post....