Author name: Pontiac Journal

Tashi Farmilo
LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

QUEBEC – Quebec’s Ministry of Agriculture (MAPAQ) launched the tenth edition of the Prix de la relève agricole, an annual award recognizing outstanding young agricultural entrepreneurs. The initiative highlights innovation, sustainability, and leadership among the province’s next generation of farmers.

The competition is open to agricultural entrepreneurs across Quebec under the age of 40 who own a majority stake – at least 51% – in a registered farming business that has been operational for three to ten years. Eligible applicants must have earned at least $50,000 in gross revenue in the previous year.

Winners will receive a $7,500 grant, while finalists will be awarded $3,500. The selection process is overseen by a jury from MAPAQ, business representatives, and industry associations, evaluating applicants based on their business vision, financial performance, community involvement, and sustainability efforts.

Applications must be submitted by May 20, including a completed nomination form, a letter of recommendation from a regional agricultural advisor, and financial statements for the past two years. Candidates must work with their regional agricultural succession and establishment advisor, who will assist in verifying eligibility and providing support throughout the application process.

Last year’s winners, Maude and Renaud Péloquin, and Michaël Lecours, owners of Ferme de Ste-Victoire in Montérégie, were recognized for their commitment to sustainable farming and efforts to promote innovative agricultural practices. The finalists, Emmanuelle Vincent and Simon Laflamme, who operate a dairy farm in Chaudière-Appalaches, were commended for their successful farm transfer model.

The Prix de la relève agricole will be awarded during the official ceremony of the Ordre national du mérite agricole in fall 2025. More information can be found on the official website: https://www.quebec.ca/gouvernement/reconnaissance-prix/agriculture/prix-releve-agricole. For inquiries, applicants can contact the Ministry of Agriculture at Prix.Releve@mapaq.gouv.qc.ca.

Photo – 2024 Prix de la relève agricole winners L/R: Renaud and Maude Péloquin, and Michaël Lecours, owners of Ferme de Ste-Victoire in Montérégie.
(Éric Labonté, MAPAQ)

Tashi Farmilo
Local Journalism Initiative

OUTAOUAIS – A wave of budget cuts is hitting the Outaouais healthcare system as the Centre intégré de santé et de services sociaux de l’Outaouais (CISSSO) eliminates 727 permanent positions, including 127 currently staffed roles and 600 vacant positions, in an effort to stabilize finances. Of the staffed positions, 25 are managerial roles. While the majority of reductions affect administrative jobs, 30 clinical positions—including nurses, psychologists, and social workers—are also slated for elimination. Clinical staff impacted will be offered alternative positions elsewhere within the healthcare network as part of the workforce restructuring process.

Locally, four administrative positions will be lost in Pontiac, along with two vacant nurse’s aide positions at the Pontiac Hospital.

“These decisions are incredibly difficult, but necessary to secure the future of our services while responsibly
managing public funds,” said Dr. Marc Bilodeau, CISSSO president and CEO, insisting that while the measures may seem severe, they’re essential to maintaining quality care within current budget constraints. “Our priority is to continue offering accessible, high-quality healthcare while adapting to the financial realities we face,” he added. “The decisions were made following a thorough review of our needs and resources to minimize disruptions to service delivery,” Bilodeau explained.

Despite reassurances from CISSSO, many remain unconvinced. SOS Outaouais, a regional healthcare advocacy group, denounced the cuts, calling them another blow to a system already struggling from decades of chronic underfunding.

“The Legault government cannot continue to turn a blind eye to the healthcare crisis in Outaouais,” said Jean Pigeon, SOS spokesperson. “Reducing resources in a system already underfunded by $200 million annually isn’t optimization—it’s negligence. Cutting another $90 million only makes a bad situation worse. A hospital running at 250% capacity isn’t a success story; it’s a failure in leadership.”

The group warns the cuts will further strain an over-burdened network, pushing exhausted healthcare workers closer to burnout and reducing already limited access to care, especially in rural communities like Pontiac.

André Fortin, Pontiac MNA and official opposition health critic, condemned the government’s decision as reckless and damaging for residents. “Slashing $90 million from an already underfinanced region—where people struggle to access basic care, where ER wait times are among the worst in the province, and where surgical delays are unbearable—is an insult to Outaouais residents,” Fortin said.

“Despite what the government claims, the cuts will reduce services for patients. The Federation of Specialist Doctors has already warned these reductions will directly affect patient care, including cancer patients who are waiting too long for critical surgeries,” he added.

Fortin vows to work with advocacy groups like SOS Outaouais to fight back.

“The CAQ MNAs in this region have abandoned their commitments and walked away from their responsibility to improve healthcare. But I won’t stop fighting against these short-sighted and harmful policies,” he concluded.

TASHI FARMILO
LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

GATINEAU – Laiterie de l’Outaouais, a community-driven dairy company, is set to expand with $6.25 million in funding from the federal government to modernize its operations, automate production, and increase its capacity to serve the Outaouais and Ottawa regions.

Laiterie de l’Outaouais was revived in 2010 through a community-driven effort to preserve local dairy processing, protect regional expertise, and reduce the environmental impact of transporting milk long distances for processing. Operating as a unique hybrid structure, the company is owned by a worker co-operative of over 35 employees and a consumer co-operative of about 600 members.

As Quebec’s youngest micro-dairy, it sources milk locally and uses traditional pasteurization methods, ensuring its products remain widely available in grocery and convenience stores across the Outaouais and Ottawa regions.

The dairy will expand its facilities and develop new regionally-inspired products with the investment. “We’ve been planning this project for several years and as Quebec’s youngest dairy, we must innovate to stand out from large dairy companies,” said Yannick Bouchard, Laiterie president and CEO. “This project allows greater automation of our current production lines and investment in the development and commercialization of new products, which we look forward to unveiling soon.”

The financial support includes up to $4.75 million from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s Supply Management Processing Investment Fund, launched in 2022 to help processors in supply-managed sectors remain competitive.

An additional $1.5 million repayable contribution from Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED) comes through the Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) program, which supports businesses investing in technology and expansion.

Local dairy farmers expressed enthusiasm for the expansion. Kristine Amyotte-Beck of Beck Family Farm in Clarendon highlighted the benefits of increased local processing. “Milk is marketed collectively, which means it’s sold to processors like Laiterie de l’Outaouais through our milk marketing board. Milk shipments are organized to be as efficient as possible from a transportation standpoint while meeting the needs of the processors who pasteurize and transform it. The expansion is great news because more local processing minimizes transportation, increases consumer demand for dairy, and benefits local farmers.”

Scott Judd, a dairy farmer from Clarendon and co-owner of Gladcrest Farms, also praised the expansion and its potential benefits for local milk producers. “If Laiterie de l’Outaouais can take more milk and increase its production capacity, our milk would go there all the time. Right now, some of our milk goes to Gatineau, but at other times it has to be transported to Montreal. Expanding their capacity means our milk stays local, which reduces transportation costs and has environmental benefits,” he explained.

“Additionally, Laiterie de l’Outaouais maintains excellent quality control. Their milk stays fresh longer in the fridge. I’ve heard chefs say it enhances the taste of cream-based sauces, for instance. Maybe it’s something special about the Pontiac cows!” concluded Judd.

Photo – Laiterie de l’Outaouais is expanding with $6.25 million in federal funding to modernize its operations, increase production, and develop new products. From left: Sophie Chatel, Pontiac MP; Yannick Bouchard, Laiterie president and CEO; Steven MacKinnon, Gatineau MP; Stéphane Lauzon, Argenteuil—La Petite-Nation MP; Robert Bussière, Gatineau MNA; Guylaine Larose, Investissement Québec Outaouais Regional Director; and Bettyna Bélizaire, Gatineau councillor. (Jason Hanna)

TASHI FARMILO
LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

MRC PONTIAC – The Pontiac Users’ Committee is a small but determined group of local citizens working to ensure patients and long-term care residents in the region receive the care they need and the respect they deserve.

Established in November 2023, the Committee serves as an independent voice for those navigating the healthcare system, advocating for patients who feel their rights have been overlooked or their concerns unheard. Under provincial law, every healthcare institution in Quebec must have a Users’ Committee to protect patient rights and ensure standards of care are met.

Acting as a bridge between patients and healthcare administrators, the Committee helps individuals who encounter problems related to treatment, access to services, or communication barriers. Among the 12 fundamental rights it works to protect are the right to information, to receive necessary care, to consent to treatment, to choose a healthcare provider, and to access services in English. The Committee also assists in filing formal complaints when necessary and can escalate cases to higher authorities if issues remain unresolved.

Patients with complaints or concerns can reach the Committee by phone at 819-647-3553 ext. 252537 or by email at CU_Pontiac@ssss.gouv.qc.ca. A member may ask follow-up questions to better understand the issue and, if needed, will help guide individuals through the complaint process or direct their concerns to the appropriate healthcare authority.

The Committee is working to raise awareness of its services. Pamphlets and posters have been placed in local pharmacies, doctors’ offices, long-term care facilities, and the Pontiac Community Hospital. Efforts are underway to expand outreach through local media, ensuring more residents know where to turn if they need support.

TASHI FARMILO
LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

PONTIAC – Tariffs, supply chain disruptions, and economic uncertainty are reshaping how Canadians do business. As global trade becomes increasingly unpredictable, the “buy Canadian” movement is gaining traction, driven by necessity and a renewed commitment to supporting local businesses. Consumers are turning away from imported goods, opting instead for homegrown food, beverages, and essentials. This shift presents significant opportunities for adaptable businesses, particularly in agriculture and agribusiness, where Canadian farmers and food producers stand to benefit the most.

Small business expert Beverlee Rasmussen, author of “Small Business, Big Opportunity: Systematize Your Small Business, Create Personal Freedom, and Live the Entrepreneurial Dream,“ views this moment not as a crisis but as an opportunity for businesses willing to pivot.

“If you have a product that Canadians are importing, ask yourself: can I produce it here? Can I find a way to get it to market?” she says. The Pontiac region, with its rich agricultural landscape, is uniquely positioned to capitalize on this shift—provided local farmers, agribusinesses, and tourism operators are prepared to act.

One immediate change is evident in food production. Traditionally, Canadian farms have relied on large wholesalers and grocery chains, but consumer habits are shifting. More Canadians seek local produce, meats, and specialty items, creating openings for direct-to-consumer models like farmers’ markets, subscription boxes, and farm-to-table initiatives.

“There’s a huge opportunity,” Rasmussen notes. “People want Canadian-grown food, but businesses must plan ahead. That means reviewing budgets, staffing, and resources now—not waiting until mid-summer and realizing, ‘Wow, if we had pivoted sooner, we’d be thriving.’”

For agribusinesses, diversification is crucial. Grain farmers who traditionally sell only to wholesalers might consider milling flour for direct sale. Dairy producers could explore artisan cheese production, tapping into growing demand for specialty Canadian products.

“Entrepreneurs excel at pivoting,” Rasmussen says. “What adjustments do you need to make right now? Look ahead to what drives consumer demand and adjust your business to align with the current economic environment.”

However, farmers face more than market challenges. Regulatory hurdles often complicate efforts to expand operations or introduce new products.

“There are definite trade barriers between provinces,” Rasmussen explains, noting that even minor differences, such as wheat-rolling techniques between Alberta and British Columbia, can impede interprovincial sales. “Right now, the government is likely more open than ever to addressing restrictive regulations. Communication is key. Don’t keep obstacles to yourself—network and inform decision-makers about necessary improvements.”

Beyond food production, agritourism offers another significant opportunity. With international travel uncertain and Canadians increasingly exploring domestically, local tourism is thriving. Pontiac, with its rugged landscapes, farms, wineries, and historic communities, is well-positioned to benefit. Farm tours, vineyard tastings, and experiential tourism like beekeeping workshops or cheese-making classes are drawing increased interest.

“This is the best time ever to be in Canadian tourism,” Rasmussen says. “Canadians prefer local experiences, and Europeans seek Canadian adventures. Potential customers need to find you. Is your website ready? Are you actively promoting your business? Now is the time to prepare and attract new clients.”

For Pontiac’s agricultural community, the message is clear: the future belongs to those who act now.

“It’s not a time of doom and gloom,” Rasmussen concludes. “It’s a moment of opportunity. Ask yourself, ‘What can I do to contribute to the Canadian economy—and profit at the same time?’”

Tashi Farmilo
Local Journalism Initiative

MRC PONTIAC – Showcase Minerals Inc. is advancing its Pontiac Project, a 3,461-hectare uranium and rare earth exploration site spanning the municipalities of Litchfield, Mansfield, and Otter Lake, but questions remain about whether the company has the legal standing to proceed given that neither local officials nor the Quebec government have received formal communication from the company regarding its plans.

The Pontiac Project, promoted as a potential source of critical minerals for clean energy and technology, is located in a region where mining activity is under growing scrutiny. While some parts of Pontiac are designated as incompatible with mining activities (TIAMs), restricting development, the rest of the region isn’t protected. According to Jason Durand, Director of Land Use Planning and Environment for the MRC Pontiac, the Ministry of Natural Resources (MRNF) can grant mining claims in areas outside the restricted zones.

The MRNF said Showcase doesn’t have official exploration permits in the province’s Register of Real and Immovable Mining Rights. Instead, they have an option agreement to acquire 100% ownership of the project from Afzaal Pirzada of Geomap Exploration Inc. Quebec law requires mining companies to obtain government authorization before conducting exploration activities that could impact the environment, and the MRNF confirmed Showcase has yet to request such authorization.

Bill 36, which took effect in November 2024, prohibits mining on private lands, though claims active or requested before May 28, 2024 remain valid. Additionally, starting in May 2025, companies with exploration rights must notify local municipalities and Indigenous communities at least 30 days before starting work.

Uranium exploration is subject to even stricter oversight. Mining companies must report any uranium discovery exceeding 0.1% concentration and undergo an Office of Public Hearings on the Environment (BAPE) review before receiving approval for extraction.

The MRC Pontiac passed a resolution in June 2023 to be consulted before any mining exploration or development work is done within its territory. However, MRC officials say they haven’t been contacted by Showcase despite the company’s ongoing exploration efforts. Durand said with numerous government-issued claims under different names, “it’s nearly impossible for the MRC to monitor all prospecting activities.” While Quebec law doesn’t require mining companies to inform municipalities about exploration on Crown land, the MRC Pontiac previously passed a resolution requesting voluntary disclosure. “Some have [informed us], and some haven’t. It’s a bit disappointing,” added Durand.

Despite the uncertainty, MRC Pontiac Warden Jane Toller doesn’t believe there’s cause for alarm at the moment. She noted that while mining companies frequently make announcements about projects, many struggle to secure the necessary investment to proceed beyond early-stage exploration.

Toller noted the potential economic benefits of mining if a project were to move forward under the right conditions. “Currently, we have a number of [local] people who are trained as miners, but who have to travel to jobs outside the region,” Toller said. “Someday, if we have a project in an area that’s not protected, it could mean economic development for Pontiac and closer work for our miners.”

Showcase Minerals has publicly stated it’s preparing for a second phase of exploration, including further sampling and trenching. However, they haven’t responded to multiple requests for comment.

Tashi Farmilo
LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

MRC PONTIAC – Pink Shirt Day, observed on February 26, 2025, is a global movement against bullying, rooted in an act of solidarity that took place in Berwick, Nova Scotia in 2007. When a Grade 9 student was bullied for wearing a pink shirt, two older students, David Shepherd and Travis Price, bought and distributed pink shirts to their classmates, sparking a movement that now extends beyond Canada, symbolizing the fight against bullying in all forms.

Despite growing awareness, bullying remains a significant issue in Quebec schools. Recent data shows many students continue to face harassment, both in person and online. Bullying takes many forms, from verbal insults and social exclusion to physical violence and cyberbullying. Causes of bullying vary, but it often stems from power imbalances, social pressures, and a desire to dominate or humiliate others. Students are targeted based on their appearance, sexual orientation, race, religion, socioeconomic status, or disabilities. Social media platforms have amplified the reach and impact of bullying, making it more difficult for victims to escape harassment.

In the Pontiac, schools are taking proactive steps to address bullying and promote kindness. Onslow Elementary School in Quyon organized a collaborative art project where students rotate through creative stations, working together with different grade levels. The initiative aims to strengthen self-esteem, empathy, and appreciation for others, reinforcing the idea that kindness can be nurtured through shared experiences.

At Pontiac High School in Shawville, staff and students will wear pink, demonstrating a commitment to creating a culture of respect and inclusion.

The Centre de services scolaire des Hauts-Bois-de-l’Outaouais (CSSHBO) extended the pink shirt initiative across its network, inviting students and staff to participate and emphasize the importance of standing up against intimidation in schools.

On Pink Shirt Day, these efforts serve as a reminder that bullying isn’t just an issue for those who experience it—it’s a community problem requiring collective action. Schools, families, and students all play a role in challenging harmful behaviours, fostering open conversations, and ensuring every child feels safe and valued.

TASHI FARMILO
LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

MRC PONTIAC – With a mission centred on empowerment and protection, L’EntourElle provides shelter, advocacy, and comprehensive support to women facing violence and hardship, offering a confidential and safe space where survivors and their children can rebuild their lives.

The organization serves women across the Pontiac, offering free bilingual services. Domestic violence is a pervasive issue—one that affects families, workplaces, and entire communities. According to recent statistics, 75% of victims don’t seek help, and in Canada, a woman is murdered by an intimate partner every six days.

“Our goal is to provide a safe space where women can take the first steps toward a life free from violence,” said Ashley Nadeau, Clinical Manager of L’EntourElle. “We want them to know help is available, they’re not alone, and they deserve to live without fear.”

A wide range of services tailored to different needs are available: emergency shelter, crisis intervention, emotional support, guidance for parents, external follow-up care, and specialized prevention and awareness programs. Support groups and custom workshops further equip individuals with the skills to regain autonomy and confidence.

Beyond direct assistance, outreach and community engagement is a cornerstone of L’EntourElle’s work with awareness campaigns, kiosks, and outreach initiatives. Educational programs cover topics such as bullying, hypersexualization, and healthy relationships, helping youth understand consent and respect. Meanwhile, older women facing domestic or family-related violence receive specialized aid, including self-esteem workshops and prevention initiatives.

The L’EntourElle team is accessible through a helpline and online platforms, making it easier for women to reach out discreetly. For those seeking support or wanting to learn more, the organization can be contacted at (819) 683-2709 or via email at accueil@lentourelle.com. More information, including details on available services, can be found at www.lentourelle.com.

Tashi Farmilo
Local Journalism Initiative

SHAWVILLE – The Shawville Recreation Association (SRA) has successfully reached its Leaders of Tomorrow crowdfunding goal, securing $6,000 in community donations and unlocking an additional $24,000 in funding from the Ministry of Education. The initiative, designed to develop youth leadership in sports and recreation, will provide training for young volunteers in coaching, officiating, and organizational management.

The program is intended to address the growing need for trained volunteers in Shawville and Pontiac. With increased participation in local sports and recreational activities, the SRA aims to equip youth with the skills to support and lead community programs. Training sessions will include First Aid and CPR, mentorship, coaching certifications, and officiating clinics for basketball, softball, and soccer.

“Our objective is to grow Pontiac’s pool of trained volunteers,” said Matt Greer of the Shawville RA. “All these good, entry-level coaching, sports, and recreation volunteer skills and certifications are needed to help grow the pool we can access to support increasing demand.”

Leaders of Tomorrow will also benefit students at Pontiac High School (PHS), providing them with training in leadership, coaching, communications, First Aid, wilderness training, and various sports-related certifications. Eight students recently attended the Sport for Life Summit in Gatineau as part of the program.

“We’re looking forward to debriefing with them and seeing what new ideas they returned with,” Greer said. “The overall focus was on physical literacy, sport programming, and other various sport-related themes.”

Greer emphasized the program will complement existing leadership and community engagement initiatives at PHS, strengthening students’ skills and preparing them for future roles in sports and recreation. “New training will help them grow and improve as student leaders and impact members of our community,” he added.

The campaign was structured to encourage contributions at multiple levels—bronze ($50), silver ($150), gold ($250), and platinum ($400)—and received support from 25 donors, including individuals and organizations like the Bryson Recreation Association.

Pontiac MNA André Fortin highlighted the importance of trained volunteers in maintaining and expanding local sports programs. “To successfully organise activities like soccer and baseball, and to develop new activities, it’s essential to have trained volunteers,” he said. “The funds raised will allow us to properly train young volunteers to provide quality supervision of these activities.”

Photo – A PHS student leader helps a K5 student from Dr. S.E. McDowell Elementary with his skating in a collaborative session between the schools. (PHS)

TASHI FARMILO
LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

PONTIAC – Every February, schools across the region recognize the dedication and hard work of their teachers and staff. Educators play a vital role in shaping young minds, fostering curiosity, and guiding students toward success. In rural communities like the Pontiac, teachers often go beyond the classroom, offering support, mentorship, and encouragement that extend far beyond academics.

This year, Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week was celebrated from February 3 to 7. The Western Quebec School Board (WQSB) chose the theme “Every day, we measure the importance of your role” to highlight the impact teachers have on their students and communities. Schools under the Centre de services scolaire des Hauts-Bois-de-l’Outaouais (CSSHBO) also took part, organizing gestures of gratitude and special events. While celebrations varied by school, the message remained the same – teachers and staff deserve recognition for their unwavering commitment.

At École secondaire Sieur-de-Coulonge (ESSC) in Mansfield, the administration planned a surprise-themed week to honour staff. Small gifts, heartfelt messages, and acts of appreciation were shared over several days. Parents and students were invited to contribute by writing personal notes of gratitude.

At Onslow Elementary in Quyon, Principal Cathy Nugent said teachers were recognized with daily surprises, culminating in a special assembly where students shared heartfelt messages. The school and its Home and School Committee also treated staff to various tokens of appreciation.

At the École des Petits-Ponts network of schools, the administration has long prioritized staff appreciation year-round. Vice-Principal Anne-Marie Belleau said small gestures of gratitude happen regularly, with extra attention given to teachers during this time. Staff received daily tokens of appreciation, and an annual end-of-year celebration further acknowledges their dedication.

Beyond school-led initiatives, parents and students across the Pontiac were encouraged to express their appreciation. Some schools invited families to submit handwritten messages, while others organized interactive activities to recognize educators’ contributions.

Though each school’s approach is unique, the goal remains the same: to remind teachers and staff that their work does not go unnoticed. Across the Pontiac, educators are honoured not just for what they teach, but for the lasting impact they have on their students and the broader community.

Photo – ESSC staff received treats and a jar filled with positive quotes to lift their spirits. Pictured: special education technicians Chantal Soucie and Florence Dyele. (ESSC)

TASHI FARMILO
LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

SHAWVILLE – The Lotus Medical Clinic, a healthcare institution that has served the Pontiac since its founding in 2014, is for sale after its founder, Joanne Romain, decided to retire following nearly 11 years of dedicated service.

“I’m having mixed feelings. I’m ready for retirement and to take a step back, but first we’re trying to avoid any negative impact on the community by finding a buyer. I’m not in a hurry,” Romain said.

The clinic, currently listed for $2,250,000, has grown to accommodate 13 family doctors, specialized nurse practitioners, a physiotherapist, an osteopath, and an after-hours care clinic.

Romain is open to a range of buyers, but is firm in her desire to ensure the clinic remains a healthcare provider in private hands. “We don’t want to see it close,” she said, underlining the importance of finding someone to continue the clinic’s mission. “It could be a group of doctors. It could be another professional buying it and installing their practice here,” she explained. She also noted the possibility of expanding the clinic’s services, such as adding specialists like a dentist, to meet the growing health needs of the region.

Despite the lack of offers so far, Romain remains hopeful. “I’m confident the right person will come along,” she said, adding the clinic’s loyal patient base, established reputation, and potential for expansion make it an attractive investment.

Photo – The Lotus Medical Clinic in Shawville is for sale as founder Joanne Romain prepares for retirement after more than a decade of service. (LR)

TASHI FARMILO
LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

QUEBEC – “Did You See Me?”, a school bus safety campaign running from January 27 to February 7, aims to improve student safety. Organized by the Bus Carriers Federation, the campaign’s core message is clear: ensuring students are visible to bus drivers is crucial for their safety.

The Commission scolaire des Hauts-Bois-de-l’Outaouais (CSHBO) is participating in the campaign by planning various educational activities, such as a collectible card game featuring the adventures of Sam and Bloup, to teach children about bus safety. They will be distributing safety brochures to parents, placing awareness posters in daycares, and sharing key messages via social media.

In the Pontiac, École des Petits-Ponts’ network of schools is working alongside the Sûreté du Québec and MRC Pontiac to organize a unique safety activity for students and parents. They will distribute information about safe behaviours and use posters and social media to communicate important bus safety messages to the community.

At Dr. S.E. McDowell Elementary School in Shawville, secretary Leona Lalonde explained they will be providing students with booklets that outline the dos and don’ts of bus safety and will have discussions about respecting bus drivers and following safety guidelines.

One of the key elements of this year’s campaign is the Nathan Ribbon, created to honour Nathan Macameau, a 13-year-old from Amos, Quebec who died on August 27, 2024, after being struck by a vehicle while crossing the road after getting off his school bus. The loss heightened awareness of the importance of school bus safety. The Nathan Ribbon, a black-and-yellow symbol, now serves as a powerful reminder to always be vigilant when near school buses.

Parents are encouraged to take an active role in reinforcing safety messages at home, reminding children to arrive early at the bus stop, wait in line calmly, sit down immediately once on the bus, and make sure they are visible to the driver before crossing in front of the bus.

For more information and to access campaign materials, visit mastuvu.info.

TASHI FARMILO
LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

OTTAWA – Incumbent Pontiac MP Sophie Chatel, advocates for environmental protection, sustainable economic development, and rural prosperity. With a CPA, a law degree, and a master’s in taxation, she has a background in finance and public service.

Before entering politics, Chatel worked with Canada’s Ministry of Finance and the OECD, shaping international tax frameworks. In Parliament, she participated in several committees, including the Standing Committee on Finance, where she led a study on sustainable finance, and the Standing Committee on Environment and Climate Change, where she worked on policies to combat climate change and protect biodiversity.

As Chair of the National Liberal Rural Caucus, Chatel advocates for rural communities, pushing for better infrastructure, climate resilience, and green economic opportunities. She’s also a leader in Kidjimaninan, an Indigenous-led project aimed at protecting 30% of Outaouais’ biodiversity by 2030, securing a $2 million investment for the initiative.

With a focus on sustainable development, Chatel works to integrate economic growth with environmental conservation, from promoting green finance to supporting green transportation, like the proposed Gatineau tramway. Her leadership in initiatives like protecting Gatineau Park and supporting farmers facing climate challenges is central to her vision for a green and prosperous Outaouais.

Chatel’s goal is to create a sustainable future for Pontiac, where communities thrive, businesses grow, and the environment endures.

Photo – Pontiac MP Sophie Chatel was elected during the 2021 Canadian federal election. Before her election, she worked as a civil servant and expert in international taxation. (Pontiac Liberal Association)

Tashi Farmilo
Local Journalism Initiative

RAPIDES-DES-JOACHIMS – Commonwealth Plywood, originally expected to close in December 2024, continues to operate into 2025, but its long-term future remains uncertain as the company evaluates its viability on a monthly basis. While the mill’s continued operation has brought relief to the local community, significant challenges persist.

Joël Quevillon, vice-president of forestry at Commonwealth Plywood, outlined the key factors influencing the mill’s future. “The situation is reviewed monthly, but we hope to continue until spring,” Quevillon wrote. “Our ability to operate depends on fibre availability, fibre costs, the market price for our products—primarily white and red pine—and the mill’s performance.” He noted improved performance during late 2024 allowed operations to extend into the new year.

Quevillon described external pressures that have made it difficult for the mill to remain sustainable. “The Quebec government withdrew an important contribution for forestry road construction under the Programme de réhabilitation des chemins de contournement des cours d’eau en milieu forestier (PRCCM) and PRCM programs. This decision was made during one of the most difficult market periods, significantly increasing supply costs,” he explained. “At the same time, our fibre allocations have been reduced by more than 30% over recent years, which further limits our ability to produce.”

While the company hasn’t requested financial assistance, Quevillon acknowledged the precarious situation. “We’ve had to issue closure notices to employees because the necessary changes aren’t happening quickly enough,” he said, adding that the company is working with committees alongside the provincial Ministry of Natural Resources and Forests to address these challenges.

Mayor Lucie Rivet Paquette is cautiously optimistic. “The mill still running is very good news for us. They were supposed to close in early December, but here we are in January and operations are ongoing. It’s day by day, week by week, but everyone is still working, and that’s what matters,” she said. “Right now, there’s no confirmed shutdown date, and as long as they’re operating, it’s good news for the community.”

Adding to these challenges is the looming possibility of new tariffs on Canadian softwood lumber by the United States, a critical market, which could further strain the industry by reducing demand and cutting into profit margins. Discussions between Canadian and U.S. officials continue with no resolution reached, leaving companies like Commonwealth Plywood facing another layer of uncertainty.