Like every year, Objectif Gard asks local personalities to take stock of the past year and then look forward to the new one. Today, it is the turn of the mayor of Bagnols Jean-Yves Chapelet.
Objectif Gard: What was your best memory of 2024?
Jean-Yves Chapelet: The curtain rises at the Espace de Culture La Pyramide! The presence of Carole Delga, president of the Occitanie Region, says it all: when the Region gets involved, like all of our institutional partners, projects come to life. Thanks to its support, as well as that of the Prefecture of Gard, the Departmental Council and the Agglomeration of Gard Rhone, this Pyramid came out of the dusty boxes to become a reality.
Who do you think was the personality of 2024?
Without a doubt, Gisèle Pelicot. For her exceptional courage, she who, victim of the rapes in Mazan, knew how to face the horror with dignity and determination, so that justice could be done. In Bagnols, we refuse to turn a blind eye when women are victims of violence. We have deployed a social worker at the police station, mainly funded by the City, to support victims at each stage, from the moment they file a complaint. In addition, emergency accommodation is made available to those who need it, because the safety of victims and their children is an absolute priority.
What will 2025 be like for you?
In 2025, I hope that a Prime Minister will be able to bring stability and serenity to our country. In an uncertain political context, France more than ever needs a clear course, capable of confronting social inequalities, economic challenges and territorial divides. This Prime Minister must bring the values of social justice and progress to every corner of the country, bring the French together and restore confidence in our institutions. The task will be difficult, but if this person succeeds, he or she will undoubtedly become the personality of the year.
What do you think will be the event of 2025?
Covering the middle pool of the Guy-Coutel municipal swimming pool, much more than a simple infrastructure project. It is a promise made to our children. Teaching them to swim from the preparatory course, giving them the means to surpass themselves, to gain self-confidence, summer and winter, is investing in their future. Thanks to this initiative, they will have the opportunity to grow, thrive and be safe in the water. A draft mandate made possible here thanks to the financial support of the Prefecture of Gard, provided by the Political Endowment of the city.
