Walloon government group leader criticized for 'touching wood' comment on climate crises

The Walloon government and its majority coalition are not responsible for the summer's heatwaves or the devastating wildfires in the Hautes Fagnes region. However, the article argues they are responsible for their words.

“

touching wood for us not to have to endure other crises during the end of July and the month of August.

During a plenary session of the Walloon Parliament, the MR group leader, Valérie De Bue, supported by the majority, made a political misstep. While the opposition wanted to urgently discuss measures for heatwaves, which had already caused 900 deaths, the majority dismissed the discussion. De Bue suggested that further crises should be avoided by "touching wood," adding that the debate could wait until after the summer break.

The article points out that the fire in Hautes Fagnes, which destroyed over 3,000 hectares, had no human casualties and received European solidarity. In contrast, the heatwave was deadly, with Wallonia experiencing the worst mortality rate in Europe, a 77% increase compared to the previous heatwave, resulting in over 1,000 additional deaths.

“

The mortality rate in Wallonia during the first episodes was the worst in Europe, as it was up 77% compared to the previous heatwave (a little more than 1,000 deaths more).

Despite the government acknowledging the impact of climate change and its intention to act, De Bue remained silent during a subsequent commission meeting on the topic, leaving other liberals to speak. The majority also did not retract their leader's comments. The author questions why an apology is so difficult, suggesting that the government's commitment to climate action will be revealed in its 2027 budget.

“

The government and its majority are not responsible for these events, but they are responsible for their words.