Bénédicte Linard steps down as Ecolo group leader to focus on schools

Bénédicte Linard, an Ecolo deputy in the Wallonia-Brussels Federation parliament, is stepping down as group leader after two years, citing a need for more field work and fewer meetings. Linard, who will announce her decision Thursday, wants to reconnect with the realities of schools, criticizing Education Minister Valérie Glatigny and Minister-President Elisabeth Degryse for not visiting schools on the August 24th return date. She argues this shows a disconnect and that recent decisions, like teacher workload distribution, are poorly conceived. Linard will remain a deputy and continue following education matters, having taught for six years in Anderlecht. Barbara Trachte will succeed her as group leader, while Stéphane Hazée continues in the Walloon parliament.