Author name: Aylmer Bulletin

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

Provigo Le Marché Charron Aylmer and its employees are proud to have participated in the Guinness World Record for the Largest Number of Parmigiano Reggiano Wheels Cracked on June 14.

More specifically, 1,800 Parmesan wheels were simultaneously cracked at more than 450 Loblaw stores across Canada, from noon to 2 pm.

Several guests were present for the occasion, including Suzanne Tremblay, Member of the National Assembly for Hull, as a judge. “It’s always a wonderful moment to witness a Guinness World Record,” she said. “It’s something quite unique, and it’s especially interesting to see the team spirit here between the employees, the Provigo owner, Eric Charron, and the connection with the community. We can see that this is a well-established business in the Aylmer area.”

According to Charron, the ripening of Parmigiano Reggiano can take up to 24 months before it reaches its peak of maturity. “Each wheel costs around $2,000,” he explained. It also takes approximately 550 liters of milk to make them.

To thank the first 20 witnesses to the event, they were offered a slice of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.

“The result of the Guinness World Record for the largest number of Parmesan cheese wheels cracked will be announced during the week of June 16,” said Charron.

Photo: Eric Charron, owner of Provigo Le Marché Charron Aylmer, accompanied by Suzanne Tremblay, Member of the National Assembly for Hull, with employees of the store, during the Guinness World Record for cracking Parmigiano Reggiano wheels (June 14, 2025). (MG) Photo: Mélissa Gélinas

Employees of Provigo Le Marché Charron Aylmer, during the Guinness World Record for cracking Parmigiano Reggiano wheels (June 14, 2025). (MG) Photo: Mélissa Gélinas

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

To combat the spread of aquatic invasive alien species, Benoit Charette, Minister of the Environment, Climate Change, Wildlife, and Parks, announced $366,665 in funding for 13 boat cleaning station projects across Quebec.

According to the Quebec government website, an aquatic invasive alien species is defined as a plant, animal, algae, freshwater or marine microorganism, virus, bacteria, or parasite. It is introduced outside its natural range by contaminating a new area and permanently altering the ecosystem. Its introduction can be intentional or accidental.

Examples of aquatic invasive alien species already established in Quebec:

• Goldfish

• Blood red shrimp

• Freshwater jellyfish

• Wood snail

• Zebra mussel

• Green sunfish

• And more

For the complete list of invasive alien species in Quebec: https://www.quebec.ca/agriculture-environnement-et-ressources-naturelles/faune/gestion-faune-habitats-fauniques/gestion-especes-exotiques-envahissantes-animales/liste-especes

“Reducing the spread of invasive alien species helps protect the health of our bodies of water and their ecosystems,” said Mr. Charette. “Cleaning boats is a simple and essential action that helps ensure the health and sustainability of Quebec’s waterways,” he added. “I thank the organizations that are responding to the call to participate in the fight against invasive species.”

To this end, the Quebec government has extended the Boat Cleaning Station program until 2027-2028. This will help control the arrival of other aquatic invasive alien species in waterways, which can spread rapidly and cause significant damage to the environment, humans, and the economy.

According to information from the Quebec government, controlling an invasive alien secies is very difficult and, as a result, generates considerable costs.

Organizations eligible for the Boat Cleaning Station program:

• Local or regional county municipalities (MRC)

• Non-profit organizations registered with the Registrar of Enterprises and dedicated to conservation, e.g., community wildlife areas, wildlife reserves (outside the Société des établissements de plein air du Québec (Sépaq) and more

• Communities and First Nations (recognized by the National Assembly of Quebec)

Note that applications must be submitted by the Minister, Benoit Charette, before July 31, 2027.

For more information on eligibility requirements: https://www.quebec.ca/tourisme-et-loisirs/activites-sportives-et-de-plein-air/aides-financieres-loisir-faune-plein-air/programme-stations-nettoyage-embarcations

Photo: Benoit Charette, Minister of the Environment, the Fight Against Climate Change, Wildlife and Parks, giving a speech on World Day for Threatened or Vulnerable Species (May 11, 2025) (MG) Photo: Screenshot

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

Budget cuts of $510 million will apply to all school service centres in Quebec by June 2026. As a result, Outaouais schools close to Ontario will face numerous challenges that will affect both staff and students.

According to Kim Lafleur Lauriault, president of the Outaouais school support union, the effects are already being felt by the exodus of staff to Ontario, including administrative staff heading to the public service. “It creates a snowball effect,” she explained. “When someone leaves, it creates additional work for another employee, and so on.” According to Lafleur Lauriault, the increased workload can also lead to overwork burnout, which is increasingly pervasive in the education sector.

For its part, the Ministry of Education wants everyone to collaborate and work together to respect budgets and ensure there is no impact on student services. However, Lafleur Lauriault states that these new restrictions will inevitably have a negative impact on students. “This will particularly affect students with special needs […],” she explained. “Any special support to which each student is entitled will therefore have to be cut from the budget.”

According to the information obtained, the population of Outaouais represents approximately 5% of Quebec’s total population; therefore, the Outaouais’ share of the $510 million budget cut will be about $25 million.

On the other hand, Education Minister Bernard Drainville insists that these are not cuts, but savings. Last year, investments were made for classroom support in 50% of elementary schools. Lafleur Lauriault, for her part, recognizes the importance of this measure, but she believes it is not effective if the government makes cuts elsewhere. “Minister Bernard Drainville is not aware of the reality and doesn’t know what’s going on,” she emphasizes.

In addition, further budgetary restrictions will have to be imposed on the number of employees in Quebec’s public schools. In other words, for the 2025-2026 school year, the number of full-time employees must not exceed 152,500. This represents a small increase of 1.7%, compared to an average growth rate of 5% to 6%.

As for private schools, they will also have to reduce their expenses. Specifically, this involves saving $56 million by June 2026.

Photo: Bernard Drainville, Minister of Education (March 1, 2025) (MG) Photo: Courtesy of Alain Raby

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

All directors of the Youth Protection Department (YPD) met in Quebec City on June 19 to review the 22nd annual report on the province-wide reporting rate.

In the Outaouais region, specifically, there was a 4% increase. This increase in the number of reports is explained, in part, by the labour shortage in all child and youth protection centres (CYPC) in the region.

According to the information gathered, there are only 28 workers in the assessment service out of 58, representing a staffing level of 48%. The staff shortage is also evident among social work technicians and in other fields. Collette Nadeau, director of the YPD in Outaouais, stated that, despite the staff shortage, no case has been missed.

On the other hand, socio-economic factors related to the Phoenix payroll system, which affected thousands of public servants, could also have had an impact on the increase in reports to the YPD.

Last spring’s floods may also have explained this increase.

“Parents then become much less tolerant and patient with their children,” says Michelyne Gagné, director of the YPD in Outaouais. “It’s in these situations that they can lose control, hit their children, or neglect them, because they are exhausted and preoccupied.”

However, although there are increasing reports, only 34% of cases have been retained for intervention. In other words, approximately one-third of the reports were deemed sufficiently serious. According to the YPD, a child’s safety or development is considered at risk if there is:

– Abandonment

– Neglect or high risk of neglect

– Psychological abuse

– Direct or indirect exposure to domestic violence

– Abuse or risk of sexual abuse

– Abuse or risk of physical abuse

– Presence of serious behavioral problems

– Child running away

– And more

For more information on reporting to the YPD: https://www.quebec.ca/famille-et-soutien-aux-personnes/enfance/services-jeunes-difficulte-famille/protection-de-la-jeunesse/faire-un-signalement-au-dpj/motives-de-signalement

Photo: Directors of the Youth Protection Department (YPD) gathered in Quebec City for the 22nd annual review (June 19, 2025) (MG) Photo: Courtesy of the CIUSSS du Centre Sud de l’île de Montréal

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

More than 32 medals were awarded to Team Quebec at the 29th annual edition of the Skills Canada National Competition in Regina, Saskatchewan, which took place from May 29 to 30. More specifically, 32 medals were awarded among 47 Quebec competitors. In addition, three students from the Skills Outaouais and Innovation Outaouais Vocational Training Centre (CFP) were among the medalists:

• Angel Brouillette – Skills Outaouais – Bureaucratic Software Applications (gold)
• Lauriane Parisien – Skills Outaouais – Graphic Arts (gold)
• Mathis Rozon – Innovation Outaouais – Industrial Mechanics (silver)

Organized by Skills Canada, the Canadian Skills Competition is the only national competition for students and apprentices across the country. A total of more than 40 trades were represented by 500 young Canadians.

At the occasion, students were selected to join Team Canada to participate in the 2026 WorldSkills Competition that will take place in Shanghai, China. This is the largest international skills competition where young people from more than 80 countries come together to compete with each other. The following eight Quebec students were chosen for Team Canada.

• Samuel Bolduc – Cégep de Sherbrooke – Industrial Design – Estrie
• Félix Lafrance – CF Harricana – Turning (Computer Numerical Control) – Abitibi-Témiscamingue
• Maximilian De-Belle-Holowka – CFP Access – Masonry – Montérégie
• Misha Marien – Faubourgs-de-Montréal School of Trades – Hairdressing – Île-de-Montréal
• Marianne Masson – École hôtelière des Laurentides – Pastry – Laval/Laurentides/Lanaudière
• Logan Poisson and Charlie Véronneau – CFP de Coaticook – Landscaping – Estrie
• Xavier Bélanger – CFP de Lachine – Refrigeration and Air Conditioning – Île-de-Montréal

“Being chosen to represent Canada in Shanghai is much more than a personal honour,” the press release states. “It’s about being the voice of a training system that stands out and helping to change the perception of skilled trades in Quebec.”

Photo: From left to right: Rylie Green (bronze), Tyler Gunther (gold), and Mathis Rozon (silver). Medalists in Industrial Mechanics (May 31, 2025) (MG) Photo: Courtesy of Skills Canada

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

The safety of Highway 50 has been an issue for years, one that continues to raise numerous discussions and election promises. Recently, the project to widen the section between Ange-Gardien and Lachute to four lanes, which had been scheduled for this year, was reportedly put on hold due to financial issues.

Mathieu Lacombe, MNA for Papineau, had promised to complete the expansion of the entire Highway 50 by 2032. According to Paul-André David, the mayor and prefect of the MRC of Papineau, the work is likely to take several years, ending even as late as 2036. This delay in the schedule is far from unanimous. “It’s definitely a disappointment,” said Gatineau Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette. “Having one lane in each direction creates accidents and a sense of insecurity. Obviously, we understand that investments and public finances at the provincial government are difficult, but nonetheless, this is an important and symbolic project for the Outaouais region.”

According to the Minister of Transport and Sustainable Mobility, Geneviève Guilbault, there was never any question of widening all sections simultaneously. In this sense, the highway, divided into seven segments, will have to be widened based on the danger level of the areas. “Currently, it’s section 7 that’s under construction, the one between Mirabel and Lachute,” she said. “Although it’s not directly in Gatineau, it’s still excellent news.” According to Ms. Guilbaut, short-term safety measures will be installed for sections 2 to 6 using crash barriers, photo radar, and a police presence. “Our plan is to secure Highway 50,” she said. “It’s important for people to know that things are moving forward.”

It should be noted that the widening of Section 1 between Gatineau and Ange-Gardien was completed on August 22, 2024, after more than two years of work.

The mayor stated that she will continue to raise awareness within the Quebec government and work with MNAs to ensure the voices of Gatineau residents are heard.

Photo: Maude Marquis-Bissonnette, Mayor of Gatineau, during a press scrum, answering media questions about the situation on Highway 50 (June 4, 2025). (MG) Photo: Screenshot

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

The Municipal Council meeting on June 10^th took place in the auditorium of the Nicolas-Gatineau Polyvalente High School, where underfunding of cultural activities and the fire department were discussed.

Cultural Portrait in Gatineau

Isabelle N. Miron, Councillor for the Orée-du-Parc district, presented the new version of the Support Program for Organizations at the Municipal Council meeting. “I agree that it would be important to invest more to support the City’s cultural organizations,” she said. “By continuing to support our organizations’ initiatives, we can offer several free activities in Gatineau […].”

Although the program meets the organizations’ expectations, the allocated budget remains a concern. “We believe the City of Gatineau has a lot of financial catching up to do in terms of culture,” explained Julie Martineau, Executive Director of Culture Outaouais. “We hope the envelope can reach $3 million for the next 2026 budget, in order to meet the targets of Quebec City and Ottawa.”

According to Martineau, Gatineau’s cultural landscape raises several issues, including a lack of infrastructure, creativity, production, access to financing, burnout, and a scarcity of resources.

“These investments will have to be carefully considered, because the economic benefits are indeed very significant in the cultural sector and must be better,” said Edmond Leclerc, councillor for the Buckingham district.

Gatineau Fire Department

Nearly 100 firefighters were present at the city council meeting to testify and address health and safety issues related to the lack of funding.

Since last February, Nicolas Houle, Vice-President of the Gatineau Firefighters Association, has been sharing information with city council and several levels of management about numerous issues facing the Gatineau Fire Department. “I’ve informed you of the extent of the ongoing problems,” said Houle. “Our fire stations, fleets, pumpers, and aerial ladders are in a deplorable state. Recently, there were no aerial ladders in service anywhere in Gatineau, including Buckingham and Aylmer.” According to Houle, the boats (fleets) have also been out of service for several years throughout the city.

Houle also admitted that the fire department does not have any EpiPens. “This means that in the event of anaphylactic shock, we will not be able to provide assistance,” he said. “Many of these issues directly affect service to citizens,” he continued.

In addition, according to the testimony of Olivier, a human resources employee for the Gatineau Firefighters Association, 15 retired firefighters have developed cancer related to the exercise of their duties. “A cancer committee was set up by the Fire Department management in partnership with our association, to find solutions to improve practices in terms of protection, decontamination, transportation of combat clothing and soiled equipment,” Olivier emphasized. “We were surprised to learn that management rejected all the measures proposed by its own executives in the joint committee, including those requiring no financial investment.” To date, no counterproposal has been received from the department’s management.

“[…] Police officers, firefighters, and paramedics are three departments that are non-negotiable [….] We must not negotiate salaries, but pay them,” said Denis Girouard, Councillor for the Lac-Beauchamp district. “I will certainly support your request.”

Photo: Gatineau Municipal Council during their meeting (June 10, 2025) (MG) Photo: Mélissa Gélinas

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

Provigo Le Marché Charron Aylmer held a barbecue with the Outaouais Mustang Club on June 7, to raise funds for two local organizations.

“We decided to create an activity where we give back to the community, with a barbecue and games for the children,” said Éric Charron, owner of Provigo Le Marché Charron Aylmer. $1,240 was raised and will be donated to the Aylmer Food Centre and the Deschênes Community Group.

A 50/50 draw was held for the occasion, with the winner (Amélie) receiving $365.

This was the first time this event was held. “We will likely repeat the activity throughout the year to help the community,” said Charron.

Photo: From left to right: Denis Parizeau, General Manager of the Aylmer Food Centre; Pierre Carrière, Vice-President of the Outaouais Mustang Club; Eric Charron, owner of Provigo Le Marché Charron Aylmer; Ibrahim Diallo, Coordinator of the Deschênes Community Group; and Sylvain Deshaies, member of the Outaouais Mustang Club, with the $1,240 cheque, in front of Provigo Le Marché Charron Aylmer (June 12, 2025). (MG) Photo: Mélissa Gélinas

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

An evening panel and consultation took place as part of the Mental Health Services in the Outaouais event on Tuesday, May 13, at the Maison du Citoyen.

Organized by ReprésentACTION Outaouais, Droits-Accès de l’Outaouais, Action Santé Outaouais, and the partners of Ensemble pour le droit à la santé, this event aimed to foster exchanges and discussions on the issues and challenges of mental health services in the Outaouais, while also providing concrete action.

To this end, panelist Pierre Pariseau-Legault, researcher and professor at the Université du Québec en Outaouais in the Laurentians, provided an update on the situation. According to him, delays in accessing services are undoubtedly one of the biggest problems. “Added to this is the staff shortage,” he explained. “Many people leave, saying they don’t feel they’re helping people since they end up on prescriptions under medical authority.” According to him, many decide to pursue other careers or move to the private sector.

“When we look at intervention models in Quebec, we realize that it’s a biomedical model that’s very prescription-oriented,” Pariseau-Legault stated. “I’m not saying that prescribing is useless, but instead, the idea is to promote an intervention model to properly meet the needs of the people who consult us.”

Furthermore, one of the biggest stereotypes is the belief that intervention by an expert is required. “More than 90% of mental health problems can be treated on the front line,” said Pariseau-Legault. “It depends on the model you adopt, but for me, mental health is very different from psychiatry. It’s a question of creativity and human relationships. It needs room for alternative practices and for testimonials.”

To conclude the evening, testimonials and discussion workshops took place.

Photo: Rebecca Labelle, coordinator at Droit-Accès Outaouais, with Pierre Pariseau-Legault, researcher and professor at the Université du Québec en Outaouais in the Laurentians, at the panel and consultation of the Mental Health Services in Outaouais event (May 13, 2025) (MG) Photo: Mélissa Gélinas

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

Following the 2019 floods, the Touraine sector of Gatineau has several vacant lots that need to be redeveloped. To this end, a public consultation was organized to engage in discussions and exchange ideas through workshops.

For the occasion, Touraine Borough Councillor Tiffany-Lee Norris Parent, Assistant Territorial Director for Gatineau, Buckingham and Masson-Angers Magdalena Dudek, several officials, organization representatives, and residents were present at the Saint-Jean-de-Brébeuf Community Centre in Gatineau on May 20.

“As you know, there are nearly 200 vacant lots within the City of Gatineau that were transferred following the 2019 floods,” said Ms. Dudek. “We created a master plan and an action plan, but we haven’t had the opportunity to organize a gathering of Touraine residents to discuss this topic.”

The workshops were divided into two parts. The first consisted of choosing the themes, and the second was to prioritize each one. Everyone gathered around a table to exchange ideas.

For the vast majority, one of the most important elements concerned lawn maintenance on the grounds. “We all agree that the grass was way too long and never maintained,” explained a Touraine resident. This, as a result, attracts many animals such as marmots, raccoons, and deer. To address the situation, mixed seeds of clover and other ground covers were proposed. To do this, the lawn will have to be removed to add soil to accommodate the new seed, which will require no maintenance.

A second element was the addition of trees. “We don’t need a structure for relaxation or play,” said another resident. “There’s already a park that’s practically unoccupied, so I doubt people would use this kind of development, which, in my opinion, is an unnecessary expense. What we want is nature.”

All in all, the request was specifically to naturalize the land. “What we’re going to do, first of all, is assess everything and see how many trees we’ll need and which species to prioritize,” explained Noris Parent. “We’ll then have to estimate the overall work and study the land. This will allow us to estimate the total budget and see how to secure the necessary funding to complete this project.” A second meeting has been proposed to take place in six months to take stock of the situation.

Photo: Tiffany-Lee Norris Parent, municipal councillor for the Touraine Borough, accompanied by officials, organization representatives, and residents at the workshop on the redevelopment of vacant lots in Touraine (May 20, 2025). (MG) Photo: Mélissa Gélinas

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

Due to the lack of capacity for drinking water and wastewater management infrastructure, more than 8,000 housing units cannot be built in the Outaouais region.

According to Nicolas Brisson, Executive Director of the Association des professionnels de la construction et de l’habitation du Québec en Outaouais, the City of Gatineau is clearly negligent in updating its infrastructure.

“Population growth had already been planned for in the city through a development plan,” said Brisson. “In 2010, a committee report estimated the funding needed to catch up on infrastructure at more than $1 billion, which led, in 2012, to the introduction of a 1% tax to subsidize several projects such as roads, transportation, etc. But where did that money go?”

Of course, the city must still seek support from other levels of government, but the development levy, which is one of the solutions proposed by the Mayor of Gatineau, is, according to Brisson, unacceptable. “It’s also unacceptable for the federal government, which imposes this tax as a condition.”

“For 10 years, the City of Gatineau had the highest average tax burden of the 10 largest cities in Quebec,” he emphasized.

Furthermore, according to Brisson’s information, the city produced a document in 2013 estimating the need to reinvest $167 million in water treatment plants. As for wastewater management, the figure is over $563 million, including $308 million for overflow elimination. “The city was already well aware of the problem and knew it would require investments,” he commented. “Furthermore, the city had already planned for population growth in its territory by increasing its density.”

“I know that the City’s savings account for budgeted infrastructure has gone from $84 million to $479 million,” explained Brisson. “These are funds that still haven’t been used. I wonder if Gatineau is really making the right choices for the right priorities. Given the housing crisis, this should have been done at least 10 years ago. Drinking water management and wastewater treatment are essential because they are a public health issue.”

Photo: Nicolas Brisson, Executive Director of the Association of Construction and Housing Professionals of Quebec in Outaouais (May 5, 2025) (MG) Photo: APCHQ Outaouais Facebook Page

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

The price increases linked to U.S. tariffs are already being felt in several grocery stores and pharmacies, including Walmart, Loblaws, Provigo, Maxi, and Pharmaprix.

According to Nathalie Normandeau, a former politician and host of the 104.7 radio show La commission, Loblaws-owned Provigo and Maxi grocery stores have already begun putting “T” symbols on more than 1,000 products, indicating a price increase caused by the tariffs.

Furthermore, according to Normandeau, within two months, a total of 6,000 products will be displaying this symbol in these grocery stores. “Fruits and vegetables will be the first to be affected,” she emphasized.

Affected products:

• Dairy products

• Meat

• Coffee and tea

• Cereals

• Spices

• Pasta

• Oil

• Soft drinks

• Sweets

• Natural, hygiene, and beauty products

• And more

“Although there are alternatives, they could cost more due to the tariff response,” said Normandeau. Canadian products containing ingredients from the United States may also see their costs increase.

“It’s quite rare to find a product that’s 100% made in Canada,” said Sylvain Charlebois, Senior Director of the Agri-Food Analytical Sciences Laboratory at Dalhousie University. “It’s important to know that the price increase won’t be 25%, but rather 3% to 5%,” he adds.

As for Walmart, the company is trying to find solutions to continue offering the lowest possible prices. “Since the pandemic, according to the first quarter results, people with higher incomes are shopping more at Walmart, particularly for groceries,” said Normandeau. “There’s a lot of concern among consumers.”

According to information from Maurice Doyon, professor of agri-food economics and consumer sciences at Université Laval, boycotting American stores such as Walmart and Costco is not recommended, as they still sell some Canadian products. In this sense, it’s American products that should be avoided, not the stores.

Photo: Maxi grocery store located on Maloney Boulevard East in Gatineau (May 16, 2025) (MG) Photo: Mélissa Gélinas

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

Nathan Farrell, a 26-year-old man from Aylmer, is still missing. According to information from the Gatineau Police Service (SPVG), he was last seen around noon on May 9, leaving his residence on Symmes Street, and he may be in Ottawa.

He was wearing dark/black jeans and a white bicycle helmet. He was reportedly riding a Louis Garneau bicycle.

Nathan is a white man, approximately 1.70 m (5’7″) tall and weighs about 73 kg (161 lbs). He has brown hair, blue/grey eyes, and a brown mustache.

The SPVG and his family have reasons to fear for his safety. No additional information could be shared out of respect for his loved ones. The investigation is ongoing.

For any relevant information on Nathan Farrell’s case, the SPVG invites the public to contact them at 819-246-0222.

Regarding the case of Jonathan Étienne Kaldjob, a 38-year-old Black man from Gatineau, the SPVG confirms that he has been found safe and sound. “This case is now closed and the publication has been removed,” said Patrick Kenney, SPVG Public Relations Officer.

Photo: Nathan Farrell (May 21, 2025) (MG) Photo: Courtesy of Gatineau Police

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

Bill 72 will now require all restaurants and businesses in Quebec to display the proposed tips before taxes are applied on all terminals, starting May 7, 2025.

This measure will be specifically included in a new bill entitled: An Act to protect consumers against abusive commercial practices and provide greater transparency in pricing and credit. It was unanimously adopted by the National Assembly.

Furthermore, terminals will no longer provide customers with any incentives regarding the recommended tip rate. “In this sense, higher percentages will no longer be highlighted, nor will smiley or sad face emoticons be displayed for tips deemed good or not so good,” explained Charles Tanguay, spokesperson for the Office of Consumer Protection. This way, it will be up to the consumer to choose the tip amount they wish to pay.

According to Martin Vézina, Vice-President of Public and Government Affairs for the Association Restauration Québec, the reason why consumers previously paid tips after taxes is simply due to the terminal programming.

However, according to Martin, not all terminals are easy to reprogram. “For the majority of them, this required computer changes that were made in recent months, and there are still operators who will have to wait for new devices to comply with the new law,” he explained. “Some will also have to manually calculate their tips since their terminal won’t have the option to calculate them.”

Therefore, this new law risks reducing workers’ income. “We want to assess whether this will have an impact on some employees’ resignations,” Martin commented.

Photo: Card inserted into a terminal (May 9, 2025) (MG) Photo: Pixabay.com

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

Minister of Education Bernard Drainville recently announced a ban on cell phone use in classrooms, outside, and on school grounds, starting next September. This regulation will apply to all Quebec schools, including public and private elementary and secondary schools.

For Drainville, this measure is intended to maximize civic mindedness among young people and reduce the rate of bullying.

Far from gaining unanimous support among young people, a student posted a video that went viral on TikTok, calling on Quebec students to go on strike on Friday, May 9. “Young people, we’re going on strike!” says Youry Roy. “Starting next year, the Quebec government will require us to call our teachers, ladies and gentlemen, and make cell phones illegal in schools,” he continued. “I don’t know what you think, but I find it stupid. Mr. and Madam Government, we have much more serious problems than phones in schools.”

Furthermore, several students in some Outaouais schools have expressed their dissatisfaction with the new regulation. Indeed, most students at the Érablière comprehensive school in Gatineau supported the strike. “I think that, in an emergency, it can still be very useful, and I don’t think banning it would be the best choice,” said a student at the school.

The Draveurs school service centre, for its part, confirmed that it had been informed of the TikTok video. “We hope that students will use the appropriate channels to express their opinions and would like to emphasize the importance of attending classes at the end of the school year,” stated the Draveurs School Service Centre.

Minister Drainville clarified that there will be certain exceptions for cell phone use, particularly for students with special needs.

Photo: Poster of the strike against the cell phone ban in schools (May 7, 2025) (MG) Photo: Michel Beaudin-Chandonnet Facebook Page

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

Many Gatineau firefighters have to deal with several outdated facilities and equipment that put their well-being and safety at risk. After several requests to the city, the president of the Gatineau firefighters’ union, Stéphane Noël, decided to refer the matter to an arbitration tribunal.

It took more than seven years before the fire station located on Gréber Boulevard received plumbing work. “In 2015, several emails were sent to the employer to indicate that the plumbing in the men’s showers on the second floor was leaking,” explained Stéphane Noël. Due to the accumulation of water, mold formed. As a result, the entire shower area had to be redone.

Furthermore, the air conditioning system at the Saint-Rédempteur fire station was out of service for two summers. “The problem has been resolved on the administrative side, but not on the operations side, where the firefighters spend most of their time,” Stéphane explained. “When they return from their operations, they wear their combat gear, which must be as warm as a suit worn on the moon. The fire station is the only place where they can cool down during the summer, but without air conditioning, the temperature can reach 30 degrees on the second floor. I also learned this week that the request was denied.”

At the fire station on the Plateau, it’s the roof that needs work. “With the recent storms, water started leaking again from the roof to where the gym is located,” he pointed out. “The problem has been persisting for a year.” Moreover, the hose drying towers at all five Gatineau fire stations have been condemned due to non-compliance. As a result, to dry the hoses, firefighters must store them on the garage floor. “Honestly, I’ve visited fire stations in the Dominican Republic, and they’re very similar to the ones we have here,” said Stéphane. “Municipal management is extremely difficult in Gatineau, and there’s no preventive work.”

Other issues include defective garage doors at several fire stations, non-compliant kitchen hoods, end-of-life ladders, and more. “In our vehicle fleet, we have auto pumpers that will soon be 20 years old and are no longer efficient,” Stéphane noted. “In the next 60 days, we will discuss with the city and outline for the employer the corrective measures that will need to be taken to address all the issues in the fire stations. After 60 days, the City of Gatineau will therefore have to provide a timeline for the upcoming work.

Photo: Firefighters extinguishing a fire (May 6, 2025) (MG) Photo: Pixabay.com

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

During the April 30 press briefing, Buckingham District Councillor Edmond Leclerc announced that he would be seeking a second term on Gatineau City Council.

“Last night, during my meeting with residents, I was asked the question, and I was ready to announce my decision: I would run as an independent candidate for Buckingham in the next election, after careful consideration,” explained Leclerc. “I won’t hide from you that the announcement of my colleague Steven Boivin’s departure forced me to reflect a little on my political future,” he added.

One of his primary motivations stems from the support and trust of Buckingham residents. “I’m especially passionate about completing other projects, particularly those related to the revitalization of the area,” he said.

Leclerc is also proud of the return of the music festival and the arrival of several businesses. “We’re working on a commercial development policy that represents extraordinary levers for our city,” he commented.

As for the borough council project that was previously launched with his colleague Steven Boivin, city councillor for the Aylmer district, it will not be possible to realize it. “I won’t lie to you that I couldn’t carry out a major project if I’m no longer part of a team […],” he emphasized. “The goal was to create a political party to carry out a vision for the city. That would have greatly decentralized our administration, but especially decision-making, bringing it closer to the sectors so that Aylmer could decide for Aylmer and Buckingham could decide for Buckingham.” Although this coalition could not be completed, Edmond Leclerc asserted that he remains a defender of the sectors. “It sparked a lot of discussion and reflection,” he said. “However, it takes a lot of people to create a political party. I respect Mr. Boivin’s decision; I understand it, but it definitely puts an end to this project.”

Edmond Leclerc, Buckingham District Councillor, during the announcement of his second term during the press scrum (April 30, 2025) (MG) Photo: Screenshot

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

During the spring flood update presented at the April 28 press briefing, water levels were revised downward, despite the number of homes affected.

According to data from the Ottawa River Regulation Planning Commission, the water will rise slower than expected. As a result, the anticipated number of affected buildings has also decreased. However, Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette notes that caution must be exercised regarding the changing weather situation. “We’ll have to monitor the low-pressure system and the rain that will arrive in the coming days,” she said.

“The floods have arrived earlier this year,” explained the mayor. “The first took place roughly around March, and we’re currently in the second, which usually arrives around May.”

More than 60,000 sandbags will be available for residents. “The bags will be placed at a municipal storage site on Pink Road, which will be open from 8 am to 5 pm,” the mayor explained.

As of April 29, several firefighter visits took place at properties in the Gatineau and Masson-Angers sectors. According to Maude Marquis-Bissonnette, the water level in the Aylmer sector would likely peak on Thursday and Friday, May 1 and 2. As for the eastern sector of the city, the water level was expected to be reached by Saturday, May 3. “Although the situation fluctuates, we are still following the same scenarios we presented earlier this week,” she said.

The most affected areas include Fraser Road and Lamoureux Street in Aylmer, Chemin du Fer-à-cheval, Jacques-Cartier Street, and Hurtubise Boulevard in Gatineau. Among these areas, approximately ten homes are affected. “Door-to-door visits to the people concerned are being planned,” the mayor said.

Currently, no streets have been flooded. “We are not in scenarios like we were in 2017, 2019, and 2020,” she emphasized. “This is a situation we are monitoring hourly,” she added.

Forecasts indicate that water levels will reach a lower threshold than those of 2023.

Photo: Maude Marquis-Bissonnette, Mayor of Gatineau, during the press briefing (April 30, 2025) (MG) Photo: Screenshot

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

During the city council meeting at the Masson-Angers Service Centre on April 15, several citizen interventions drew attention to the parking tax and Rue des Laurentides.

Mixed opinions on the parking space tax

“A month ago, dozens and dozens of businesspeople came to the last council meeting at the Maison du Citoyen to ask us for some breathing room, following the imposition of a heavy tax on parking spaces,” said Mario Aubé, city councillor for the Masson-Angers district. “They were offered a 40% discount and, since then, it’s as if we’re hoping the situation will pass and that we won’t talk about it anymore.

For Dinty’s restaurant owner Jim Sourges, this represents an increase of more than 50%. “How will this tax change my customers’ behavior?” he wondered. Moreover, since the restaurant is in a heritage zone, it will be difficult, according to Jim, to change the zoning. “I find this situation contradictory,” he said.

Moreover, the situation doesn’t seem favourable for Mario Marengère, a real estate developer in Gatineau. “I recently received a tax bill for more than $52,000 in additional fees,” he pointed out. “My tenants are at risk of leaving, and I’ll be left with empty buildings […]. “It’s no longer fun to live in Gatineau!”

While some were opposed to this tax, other citizens were keen to show their support, as was the case with Céline Lopez, a member of the Outaouais group Mères au Front. “For us, taxing parking spaces is one measure among others to move us away from car use and toward a more sustainable lifestyle,” she commented.

“We sometimes hear that the tax is waging war on cars, but let’s be clear, the real war is the one waged every day by those who want to walk, cycle, or take the bus without fearing for their safety or their lives,” says Patrick Meunier, Director General of MOBIO.

Rue des Laurentides: Far from Delighting Residents

Regarding the situation on Rue des Laurentides, discontent was felt by several residents of the Masson-Angers area who were present at the city council meeting.

Despite nearly 90 requests to 311, the situation remained unchanged. “It’s one of the worst-rated streets in the east end of the city […],” explained Mario Aubé. “Unfortunately, in recent weeks, I learned that the project has been relegated to the implementation plan and will be pushed back to 2027.”

“What I just learned tonight was like a slap in the face!” said Robert Guérin, a resident of Masson-Angers. “People weren’t even aware of the situation; we only just found out. For you to say that the situation will continue its course is inconceivable. People have been waiting for several years.”

“We’ve had a street full of craters for over four years,” explained Marcel, a resident of Masson-Angers. “The situation has worsened since the construction of the seniors’ centre.”

Photo: Overview of the city council meeting (April 15, 2025) (MG) Photo: Mélissa Gélinas

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

After eight years of effort, the Chambord project, comprising more than 1,500 housing units located north of Highway 50 near Labrosse Boulevard, which would have generated $8 million in property tax revenue annually, will not see the light of day.

“The goal was to offer a complete and friendly neighbourhood with a daycare, a school, businesses, and bike paths nearby,” explained Claude Montreuil, the project’s real estate developer.

Furthermore, Montreuil offered to provide land free of charge for the construction of a new elementary school, in addition to assuming all infrastructure costs and the costs incurred for the water backup on the site.

“In August 2020, the School Service Centre announced that it had received $28 million in funding for the school,” said the developer. “At that point, I thought my project would have been confirmed. I was even willing to donate over 90 acres of land to integrate a new forest. All of this was conditional on the City of Gatineau giving me a helping hand.”

During those eight years, Claude Montreuil had to pay $1.8 million in economic, geotechnical, environmental, and other studies required by the city. “I attended over 49 meetings with the administration and over 150 meetings with the professionals I had hired,” he said.

“In June, I submitted a health and safety report, but I had to wait nine months for a response from a city employee who told me he had forgotten to mention that a second project near mine had increased from 200 to 900 homes,” said Montreuil. “At that point, he told me I had to start my study all over again.”

After eight years, the City of Gatineau still doesn’t know if it’s in a moratorium on real estate development. “Imagine my frustration,” said Montreuil. “Thousands of hours and millions of dollars have been invested, and we’re still in limbo. There are many entrepreneurs who feel the same way I do.”

No longer having the patience to discuss matters with the city, the developer decided to put the land up for sale.

According to Gatineau Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette, this is an extremely complex project because it’s located in an expansion zone. “This wasn’t an area that was originally intended for development,” she emphasizes. “The latest news I received is that Quebec has requested additional information from the developer to ensure the land has had the necessary work to accommodate the elementary school. At this time, we are still waiting to hear from the developer, and I can assure you that we remain committed to this project.”

The mayor also noted that meetings have taken place with Claude Montreuil and the School Service Centre. “The process is underway, but it remains a complex project,” she stated.

Photo: Maude Marquis-Bissonnette, Mayor of Gatineau, answers journalists’ questions during the press scrum (April 9, 2025). (MG) Photo: Screenshot

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

The Gatineau Chamber of Commerce (GCC) announced a major mobilization campaign to denounce the parking tax imposed by the city. To this end, the GCC invited merchants and the business community to gather at La Shop bike centre located at 139 Boulevard de l’Hôpital in Gatineau on Monday, April 14.

“As President of the GCC, I want to emphasize the crucial importance of this moment,” said Iseline Gandaho. “Today, we have a duty to defend our merchants, our local economy, and our citizens.”

According to Gandaho, the parking tax raises legitimate concerns. Its impact goes far beyond parking. “Our entire local economy is threatened,” she explained. “We fully understand the environmental intentions, but this measure was implemented too quickly at the expense of all our businesses and citizens. The city decided to adopt this tax for environmental reasons, but it was implemented without a rigorous analysis and without a gradual transition.”

“If we are here today, it’s because we are facing a situation that affects far more than local businesses,” emphasized Etienne Fredette, General Manager of the GCC. According to him, this tax will also affect citizens who will have to pay more for their products.

Neighbourhood services will also be reduced by the lower number of opening hours. Ultimately, it’s the businesses, jobs, and services that risk disappearing. Furthermore, student jobs will have to be reduced, particularly during the summer.

“What we’re presenting today is a complete moratorium on the parking tax,” he explained. “We invite you to visit the Gatineau Chamber of Commerce website where you can find a citizen petition to sign,” he added. Signs denouncing the tax have also been made available to businesspeople.

The situation is of great concern to businesses, as is the case with Louis Mounir, owner of the restaurant La Creppa in Gatineau. Since he can’t find other solutions, he will have to reduce his employees’ hours. “It pains me to see my employees, who have worked alongside me for a long time, having to leave […],” he commented.

Photo: Etienne Fredette, Executive Director of the GCC, at the press conference for the mobilization campaign against the parking tax (April 14, 2025) (MG) Photo: Gatineau Chamber of Commerce Facebook page

Mélissa Gélinas

Linda Larocque decided to step down as president of Impératif français on April 2, following the strong reactions she provoked by posting xenophobic comments on social media.

Some of her comments were:

“Islam in Islamic lands… not in Quebec, a secular land, damn it!”

“The veil offends me, and I despise those who wear it in secular Quebec.”

“In Rome, we do as the Romans did, go back to your Islamist countries, quickly.”

“We are being invaded.”

In addition to Larocque’s resignation, four members of Impératif français’s board of directors, including Sylvie Lemay, secretary; Gaston Carmichael, administrator; Gérard Lebrun, advisor; and her spouse, Pierre Vachon, treasurer, also submitted their resignations. “I believe this is a wise decision,” commented Maude Marquis-Bissonnette, Mayor of Gatineau. “The city will be there to support them, because we fundamentally believe in the mission of Impératif français and Outaouais en fête,” she continued. “We want this festival to continue in 2025 and beyond.” According to the Mayor, the City of Gatineau could not tolerate being associated with a partner whose spokespersons made comments like these. The goal is to be able to maintain the organization’s services and activities.

Wassim Aboutanos, the organization’s vice-president, will assume the interim presidency. “What’s important for us is that the organization be aligned with its values ​​and with the people it represents,” said Wassim. “When representing an organization, we have to stand by our words and our values.”

Furthermore, a new board of directors will be elected following a special general meeting to be convened shortly. “More than 20 members have requested this,” explained Wassim.

Shortly before her resignation, Linda Larocque issued an apology that was not well received. Mayor Marquis-Bissonnette stated that there was still much work to be done within the Impératif français organization. “I stand by what I said yesterday, which is that it’s difficult for an organization to maintain its position on statements like these in a context where it receives a lot of public money,” she said. “[…] these comments are unacceptable, in my opinion.”

Photo: Maude Marquis-Bissonnette, Mayor of Gatineau, during the press scrum (April 2, 2025) (MG) Photo: Screenshot