“But for the N-VA, strengthening the regions by definition means less federal government,” Magnette points out. “For us, the support of the regions and the federal government can be strengthened at the same time.” How can something like this work? “With a clear division of powers, it is easier for the two levels to work efficiently. With a clear financial mechanism this is also possible.”
There are no taboos for Magnette. More transfer to the regions is possible: the entire organization of health care, for example, although the financing and the major principles must remain federal for him. But it is also possible for him that prevention policy will go back to the federal level.
Transferring powers to regions is therefore negotiable. “To the regions. For us the Communities have no real future.” The three regions – Flanders, Wallonia and Brussels – and the three communities – Flemish, French and German-speaking Community – could molt into three or perhaps four full-fledged regions: Flanders, Wallonia, Brussels and a German-speaking region.
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