Expatica news

Province devolves powers to Flanders

The Flemish government’s recent decision to simplify management at provincial level will result in a number of crucial changes for the provinces, among them increased focus on territory-related issues such as water policy, spatial planning and mobility. Other powers that have been devolved to the provinces include monument conservation, regional landscapes and forests, integrated water policy and educational centres. Powers related to people will be transferred to the Flemish government. For issues concerning sport, welfare and cultural heritage the Flemish government will sign a management agreement with each province at the start of every legislative period.
Antwerp’s management agreement with the Flemish government has meanwhile been approved and will see the province focus its youth policy on the inclusion of socially vulnerable youths in addition to the continued support  to municipal youth services. At welfare level the province will focus its efforts on the promotion of healthcare professions, welfare and care service and the development of intermunicipal and intersectoral networks.
On a sports level efforts will be focused on encouraging people with disabilities to participate in sport. The province will further support regional sporting activities and events, including the House of Sports in Berchem. Provinces will no longer be responsible for granting subsidies. For their responsibility in respect of heritage, monument conservation and landscapes the provinces will receive additional funds from the Flemish government.