Residents of Ruiselede must speak out about the merger with Wingene

Throughout the week there will be information sessions in both municipalities, where residents can ask questions. The first session was held last night, and it was well attended.

A debate is not possible at the first information moment in Ruiselede. The approximately 300 inhabitants are allowed to ask questions. There are not many concrete answers, because the merger plans still have to be discussed with Wingene. Many people do not accept that there was no prior participation and that the choice for Wingene is a fait accompli.

On Sunday until 1 pm, anyone over the age of 16 in Ruiselede can vote for or against the merger with Wingene. The referendum is only valid if at least 20% of the eligible voters turn up. But the result is not binding.

In any case, a merger is inevitable. That says professor of public administration Filip De Rynck of the University of Ghent. What’s more, it’s a first step in an even bigger merger, he says. According to De Rynck, the Flemish government will eventually make mergers between municipalities mandatory.