Gatineau Mayor France Bélisle steps down

The mayor of Gatineau, Que., says she's stepping down effective immediately

The mayor of Gatineau, Que., says she's stepping down effective immediately.

France Bélisle made the announcement Thursday morning at a news conference at City Hall, saying she is leaving to preserve her health and integrity.

She said in French that she does not want to keep participating in the current political climate.

Bélisle became the city's first female mayor when she was elected in 2021.

Versant Coun. Daniel Champagne will be the maire suppléant, or acting mayor.