The Association of Flemish Cities and Municipalities (VVSG) has condemned the violence that resulted in the death of a 56-year-old social services employee during a home visit in Ghent on Wednesday evening, the VVSG announced on Thursday in a statement posted on its website.
"This tragic incident affects us deeply and highlights the courage and dedication of social workers, who are there every day for the most vulnerable members of society," the statement said.
"Emergency workers deserve respect and safety," the VVSG stated. "Violence against emergency workers is unacceptable and must never be tolerated."
"This applies to everyone who works for society: from social workers to firefighters and police officers," the VVSG added. "Every professional must be able to do their job in complete safety, without fear of aggression."
Het Nieuwsblad reports that, as a result of the incident, home visits in Grimbergen municipality will be suspended for a week, with immediate effect. This has also been confirmed by VVSG spokeswoman Nathalie Debast.
"The people who had a home visit scheduled will be notified personally," acting Mayor Karlijne Van Bree told Het Nieuwsblad. "The request came from the services themselves, where there is great concern."
