Catherine Fournier, the Mayor of Longueuil, is preparing for motherhood while maintaining her responsibilities. Just days away from giving birth, she shared insights about balancing her new role with her duties as mayor.
Catherine Fournier’s New Chapter as Mayor and Mother
Fournier has opted against traditional maternity leave. Instead, she believes this choice aligns with her passion for her work. “I have a very high work rhythm,” she stated, indicating her desire to remain actively engaged in her mayoral responsibilities.
While she will adjust her schedule, Fournier plans to temporarily step back from the public aspect of her role. This includes media appearances and participation in panels, which usually account for 30 to 40 hours of work weekly. This hiatus may last “a few weeks or a few months.”
Continuing Responsibilities
Despite her temporary reduction in public engagements, Fournier intends to maintain her strategic and decision-making responsibilities remotely. She emphasized that these tasks allow her to work at her own pace, accommodating her newborn’s needs.
Communication will remain crucial during this period. Fournier will stay in daily contact with her chief of staff, who is also the godparent of her child. She feels supported by her team and family, stating, “We will truly be a village around my son.”
Delegation and Council Participation
- Fournier has delegated several administrative tasks to her cabinet members.
- Colleagues will preside over some meetings during her absence.
- She aims to attend municipal council sessions, including one scheduled for April 28, unless health issues arise.
Notably, recent legislative changes allow elected officials to participate in council meetings virtually following the birth of a child. This modification is part of the improvements made in 2024, designed to enhance municipal governance while accommodating personal circumstances.
Legislation Impacting Municipal Governance
The new law, adopted by the Quebec National Assembly on June 6, 2024, strengthens support for municipal elected officials. A council session held on September 17 featured a hybrid participation model, allowing members to engage from a distance. This aligns with practices initiated during the COVID-19 pandemic, which had adapted municipal meetings to virtual formats.
In summary, Mayor Catherine Fournier’s approach to balancing motherhood and her duties reflects both her dedication and the evolving frameworks allowing elected officials to manage their responsibilities flexibly. El-Balad will continue to monitor this situation as it develops.
