Quebec Introduces New Helpline for Politicians Amid Wave of Resignations in 2021.

Quebec is allocating $2 million to provide psychological support for politicians and their families following a wave of resignations and leaves of absence among elected municipal officials.

A new telephone helpline will be available starting on Feb. 28 for politicians in need of assistance, with nearly 10 percent resigning since the 2021 municipal elections.

While Quebec states that the helpline is part of a multi-year plan to enhance working conditions for local leaders, today’s announcement comes just a week after the sudden resignation of Gatineau’s mayor.

France Bélisle attributed a hostile work environment, including death threats from the public, as the reason for stepping down from her position.

Minister of Municipal Affairs Andrée Laforest highlights that a growing number of elected officials are resigning due to intimidation and harassment, with at least 741 out of 8,000 local politicians having resigned since 2021.

The provincial government also intends to introduce a mandatory online course for newly elected leaders to better prepare them for handling the stress that comes with their roles.

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