Author of a book about the dangers of designer drugs is a candidate for the Flemish Parliament (Hoogstraten)

Lydia Bottenburg from Hoogstraten is in fifth place for Green on the list for the Flemish Parliament. She released the book last year At the end of the rainbow out. In it she talks about the death of her son Mathias, who died from the effects of so-called research chemicals.

With her political commitment, Lydia wants to work for a society in which everyone gets fair opportunities and where the solution to every problem starts with a conversation. “I work as a prison guard and experience the need to improve living and working conditions every day,” says Lydia. “The lack of resources and personnel, the problems of drug use and aggression can only be solved with a coordinated approach. It has gotten to the point where the government has become deaf to the issues and that staff have no choice but to strike. “

“Victim support must be available more quickly and organized more efficiently, a necessity that I unfortunately had to experience myself after the loss of my son to a designer drug. In the fight against drugs, I also advocate increasing knowledge and awareness of the danger of these designer drugs. Tackling online sales of this is necessary to save lives. With my book and my political involvement I try to make others aware of the danger of this.”

No impulsive choices

Lydia is already active in municipal politics, her husband is a municipal councilor. She is also a volunteer at Natuurpunt. She is hopeful for the elections on June 9. “I especially hope that people take the time to inform themselves well and not make impulsive choices. We are given a lot of fear that is pointless and stupid. Facts that should keep us awake are the climate, social security and health care.”

“We are conducting an active campaign with Groen, convincing voters to opt for fair opportunities and a well-thought-out climate policy. I can only hope that people will listen and I want to try to do my part.”

(Ram)