Author name: Pontiac Journal

Tashi Farmilo
Local Journalism Initiative

FORT-COULONGE – A new women’s recreational hockey team in Fort-Coulonge is fostering community engagement and providing an opportunity for local women to stay active. The initiative, organised by Lisa Soucie, began in December 2024 and has quickly gained traction. Soucie, who has been passionate about hockey since childhood, wanted to bring the sport back to her community after years without a women’s team.

The team held its first practice on December 9 at the Centre de Loisirs des Draveurs Century 21 Élite. Despite bad weather, several players attended. Interest grew in subsequent weeks, with 14 participants joining for the second session. “I was thrilled to see so many women wanting to try it out,” said Soucie. “Some had never played before and others hadn’t been on the ice in years.”

To accommodate various skill levels, the group organises games by pairing beginners together while more experienced players take part in separate matchups. Hector Bernasconi, a local arena staff member and power-skating clinic organizer, volunteers to coach and assist.

The initiative has also attracted the attention of the MRC Pontiac, which has donated $2,000 towards coaching. While the team currently focuses on recreational play among members, future plans could include additional resources and activities if more funding is secured.

The group has welcomed participants aged 16 and older, with a few younger players. Equipment is available for those wanting to try hockey without committing to purchasing gear. “It’s inspiring to see women of all ages come together for something they enjoy,” said Soucie. “The experienced players have been patient and encouraging, creating a welcoming environment for everyone.”

The team meets Mondays from 7:30 pm to 8:30 pm at 33 Rue du Centre Récréatif.

Those interested can contact Soucie at: 819-319-6122.

Photo – Fort-Coulonge’s new women’s hockey team during one of their first practices at the Centre de Loisirs des Draveurs. (Lisa Soucie)

Tashi Farmilo
Local Journalism Initiative

OTTER LAKE – After serving as acting mayor for several months following Terry Lafleur’s resignation in September 2024, Jennifer Quaile was acclaimed mayor of Otter Lake on December 20, 2024. Her vision for the community focuses on environmental sustainability, local economic development and improving services.

In the short term, Quaile’s administration is prioritizing waste management. “We pay by the ton to send our garbage to landfill,” she explained, highlighting the financial and environmental impact of waste. A new policy, implemented January 1, mandates the use of clear bags for garbage brought to the transfer station to reduce landfill waste by encouraging better separation of recyclables and food waste. Additionally, the municipality is distributing free kitchen compost pails to residents.

The municipality is also exploring the possibility of creating a “reusables” section at the transfer station. “One person’s trash could become another’s treasure,” Quaile remarked.

Looking ahead, Quaile is focused on diversifying and strengthening Otter Lake’s economy. “We want to continue helping our local economy grow, particularly through supporting tourism, which is vital to the area’s livelihood,” she said. Quaile aims to encourage new businesses and entrepreneurship to diversify the local economy.

Quaile stressed the need for services that support a growing population. “We want to encourage people to make Otter Lake their home,” she said. The availability of affordable housing and childcare services are central to this goal, alongside initiatives to support seniors who wish to retire in the area.

A significant environmental challenge facing Otter Lake is the presence of Eurasian milfoil, an invasive aquatic species discovered in five of the town’s lakes. Quaile’s office is working closely with local lake associations and biologists to mitigate damage. “We’ve already received reports from biologists on how to best address the issue, and we’re committed to taking the necessary steps to protect our lakes,” Quaile said.

One of the standout projects underway in Otter Lake is the development of the 408 Tessier parcel of land adjacent to the Raymond Johnston Community Centre. With community fundraising and grant support, the site has already seen the installation of a splash pad, a covered seating area for parents, and an electric vehicle charging station. “We’re continuing to improve the site, with plans for more upgrades depending on future funding opportunities,” Quaile concluded.

Photo caption: Otter Lake’s new mayor, Jennifer Quaile. (Jennifer Quaile)

TASHI FARMILO
LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

L’ISLE-AUX-ALLUMETTES – David Gillespie, a farmer and long-time agritourism advocate, was named Agricultural Ambassador by the UPA Outaouais-Laurentides during its 60th-anniversary celebration at Château Montebello, October 30. The recognition highlights Gillespie’s decades of dedication to agriculture and his efforts in fostering regional connections.

A graduate of Macdonald College in 1981, Gillespie has dedicated his life to agriculture. His commitment extends beyond farming to initiatives aimed at addressing systemic challenges. Currently, he’s advocating for reforms in farm insurance availability across Quebec.

“We’re facing huge problems right now with getting insurance all over the province,” he said. “There are farmers who don’t even have insurance anymore.” According to Gillespie, only two companies offer general insurance to farmers in the region. However, many operations are deemed too high-risk, leaving farmers vulnerable.

Gillespie pointed to Ontario as an example of progress.

“In Ontario, a private bill was passed to protect agritourism operators from civil liability,” he said, noting the disparity between provinces due to Quebec’s unique legal system based on the Civil Code. “In Quebec, you cannot be exempted from civil liability. They’d have to change the Civil Code, and that’s not going to happen.”

Despite the legal constraints, Gillespie remains optimistic about forthcoming solutions. “There’s a proposal from the UPA that will help alleviate the problem. We don’t know what it will be yet, but it’s an issue taken seriously.”

As the founder of an international agritourism trail, Gillespie has worked to bring small-scale farms into the spotlight. “We have five farms in the Pontiac that are now part of the trail,” he said. “Ten years ago, we had none. It’s a growing trend that makes sense for the area.”

The broader economic context in the Pontiac underscores agriculture’s importance. The potential closure of the Commonwealth Plywood mill in Rapides-des-Joachims could leave a void in the local economy. “With the shutdown of the mill, agriculture would become even more important for the Pontiac,” Gillespie emphasized. “It’s now the primary industry, alongside tourism.”

Despite challenges, Gillespie remains pragmatic about the future of farming in the region. “We’ll never compete with the Corn Belt,” he said, referencing large-scale industrial farms in the U.S. “But we can focus on smaller, adaptive agriculture. Agritourism is a good fit for this area, but it’s not for everyone. You’ll always have conventional agriculture alongside new forms,” he concluded​.

Photo – UPA Outaouais-Laurentides President Stephane Alary (right) presents David Gillespie (left) with the Agricultural Ambassador award at the organization’s 60th anniversary celebration, October 30, at Chateau
Montebello. (Photo: UPA)

TASHI FARMILO
LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

MRC PONTIAC – In a bid to address the growing housing crisis and workforce shortages in the Pontiac, the MRC Pontiac has launched a Host Family Program. The initiative encourages local residents to rent spare rooms in their homes to immigrants seeking temporary accommodation as they integrate into the community.

The program, spearheaded by Rachel Soar-Flandé, economic development agent for housing in the MRC Pontiac, aims to alleviate the strain caused by limited housing options. “This initiative arose from the pressing need for temporary accommodation among new arrivals,” said Soar-Flandé. “Many people require time to become familiar with the region before committing to long-term housing, whether renting or buying.”

Since the program’s launch on November 4, several residents have expressed interest in becoming host families. “We’re seeing a community-driven effort to support newcomers, which is heartening,” she added.

When asked if she’d be offering a room herself, Soar-Flandé said she’s not yet able to participate. “When I moved to the Pontiac from France two years ago, I purchased a home that I’m still in the process of renovating,” she said. “Unfortunately, it’s not yet suitable for hosting anyone, but the initiative is one I fully support.”

Soar-Flandé noted the program isn’t designed for long-term rentals but rather for short-to-medium-term stays.

The broader aim of the program is to mitigate the impact of housing shortages on the local economy. Pontiac businesses, already grappling with workforce challenges, have struggled to attract and retain talent due to the lack of available housing. “We risk losing valuable workforce contributions simply because people can’t find a place to live,” Soar-Flandé explained. “This program mobilizes untapped housing resources while fostering cultural exchange and community integration.”

The program operates in partnership with the Carrefour Jeunesse-emploi du Pontiac and its Place aux Jeunes en région program, which helps young professionals integrate into the region.

The MRC is compiling a directory of available accommodations. Those interested can find detailed information and sign up at mrcpontiac.qc.ca/la-mrc/logement​.

Tashi Farmilo

Local Journalism Initiative

OUTAOUAIS – A specialized user committee within the Centre intégré de santé et services sociaux de l’Outaouais (CISSSO) is dedicated to improving care and services for individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism spectrum disorder (DI-TSA). Known as the CU DI-TSA, the committee works to protect the rights of these individuals, ensuring they have access to necessary services while advocating for improvements in their daily lives and care options and assisting them in navigating issues and complaints.

One of the committee’s top priorities is improving access to dental care under general anesthesia, a service often required by DI-TSA individuals. In recent months, CU DI-TSA has worked closely with CISSSO, leading to the recent publication of new guidelines to improve access to dental care for these individuals. The committee is now compiling a list of specialists who can provide these services.

In addition, CU DI-TSA advocates for better adapted transportation services to access medical appointments, community programs, and social activities. The committee focusses on respite care services; essential for supporting families and caregivers who need breaks from caregiving duties.

The CU DI-TSA maintains an ongoing dialogue with CISSSO’s leadership to address issues and find solutions. Regular meetings with CISSSO executives, participation in working groups, and collaboration with other user committees ensure CU DI-TSA remains a key player in advocating for DI-TSA users.

Beyond these efforts, the committee has also been involved in the transformation of local care facilities, such as the Centre de réadaptation du Parc-du-Lac-Beauchamp, and the upcoming opening of the Maison des aînés et maison alternative in Masson-Angers. These projects are expected to significantly improve services for individuals with disabilities in the Outaouais.

CU DI-TSA’s advocacy extends beyond policy discussions. Over the past few months, the committee launched a media campaign to raise awareness about the difficulties faced by DI-TSA users in accessing dental care. The committee’s members, many of whom are longtime advocates and parents of DI-TSA individuals, conducted interviews with local media, sent letters to CISSSO’s leadership, and worked diligently to keep this issue on the public agenda.

“We’ve seen some progress, but there’s still a lot of work to be done,” said Michel Marcotte, a CU DI-TSA member. “Our goal is to ensure individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism receive the care and support they deserve,” he concluded.

Tashi Farmilo

Local Journalism Initiative

QUEBEC – Quebec’s Ministry of Justice has launched a public consultation on the future of Daylight Saving Time (DST), inviting residents across the province to weigh in on the decades-old practice of adjusting clocks twice a year. The consultation, which began on October 22 and will run through December 1, aims to gather insight on whether the province should continue with DST or abandon it.

The biannual clock adjustment, introduced during WWI to conserve energy, has long been questioned for its relevance in modern life. Studies in recent years have highlighted the adverse effects of DST on health and well-being, prompting renewed public dialogue. “This initiative allows us to hear from Quebecers and analyse the broad effects of DST, from health to economic impacts,” said Quebec’s Justice Minister, Simon Jolin-Barrette.

Many health professionals and researchers argue DST disrupts natural sleep cycles, leading to “social jet lag,” which is linked to an increased risk of obesity, cardiovascular disease, and depression. “Morning light is crucial for well-being, health, and productivity,” said Rébecca Robillard, associate professor and co-chair of the Canadian Sleep Research Consortium. “Maintaining a permanent Standard Time would align more closely with our biological clocks and could mitigate many of these health issues.”

For those involved in agriculture, like Gema Villavivencio of Pure Conscience Farm in Clarendon, the time change impacts daily routines. “In winter, when it gets dark at 4 pm, it’s harder to keep up with farm work,” she noted. “Having more light in the late afternoon would be a huge help, especially during harvest time when every hour counts.”

Villavivencio added that a stable schedule would align better with her needs. “We’re already following the rhythms of the land,” she said, “so a permanent time would make our days feel more natural.”

A change could pose economic and logistical challenges if Quebec moves away from DST while neighbouring regions, like Ontario and the US, continue the practice. Quebec’s Justice Ministry acknowledged this factor, stating alignment with trading partners will be a key consideration in the final decision.

The consultation provides various ways for citizens to engage, from surveys to open discussions. Residents have until December 1 to participate in the survey: consultation.quebec.ca/processes/changement-heure?locale=en.

Tashi Farmilo

Local Journalism Initiative

MRC PONTIAC: Carrefour Jeunesse Emploi du Pontiac (CJEP) has launched an initiative aimed at integrating immigrants into the Pontiac, recently submitting a funding proposal to Quebec’s Ministry of Immigration, Francisation, and Integration (MIFI) under the Programme d’aide aux collectivités (PAC). This project seeks to foster a culture of inclusivity, raising local awareness about the importance of welcoming new residents.

“Pontiac has long struggled with low immigration rates, limiting its economic and social vitality,” said Karim El Kerch, CJEP executive director. Over the past three years, CJEP’s Place aux jeunes Pontiac program has highlighted the critical need to welcome and integrate immigrants to support the region’s demographic and economic health.

CJEP’s project is designed to support the region’s broader action plan to welcome immigrants, preparing the MRC and local stakeholders for the transition. “The goal is to sensitize and collaborate with local players—businesses, community organizations, educational institutions—on issues related to immigration,” said El Kerch, adding that a “welcoming culture is fundamental to building a harmonious community where social cohesion and cultural interaction are valued.”

If funded, the project will need financial support from the MRC. CJEP requested $10,000 over two years, which was approved at the MRC’s October 16 meeting.

“This project addresses both demographic decline and labour shortages,” El Kerch explained. “Local businesses and community organizations increasingly need skilled labour, and by supporting the integration of immigrants, we’re helping to meet those needs while enriching our social fabric.”

The MIFI is currently reviewing the funding request. “It’s premature to confirm specific activities or financial details until we have MIFI’s approval,” said El Kerch, noting they may need to adjust their action plan based on recommendations from the ministry.

Tashi Farmilo
Local Journalism Initiative

QUEBEC – In response to longstanding family doctor shortages, the Quebec
government is considering redirecting healthy residents away from regular family doctor appointments to the Guichet d’accès à la première ligne (GAP), a centralised access system for primary healthcare. This proposal, aimed at alleviating the load on family doctors, is a central issue in ongoing negotiations between the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) and the Fédération des médecins omnipraticiens du Québec (FMOQ), the union representing Quebec’s family doctors.

Dr. Thomas O’Neill, a seasoned family physician practising in the Pontiac, voiced significant concerns over the proposed approach. “Redirecting healthier patients to GAP may appear efficient, but it risks stripping away the essential preventive care family doctors
provide,” O’Neill remarked. “Our role is not just about treating illness; it’s about knowing the patient’s history and providing continuity in care, which ultimately reduces pressure on emergency services.” O’Neill further noted that short-term visits to GAP cannot replace the depth of care offered by family doctors, especially in rural areas where options for healthcare access are already limited.

Quebec’s Minister of Health assured residents in a statement saying, “Quebecers who have a family doctor will keep them.” He emphasised the government’s commitment to fulfilling healthcare promises outlined in the 2022 health plan, with a focus on making healthcare access more straightforward for all Quebecers.

However, the CAQ’s approach has drawn sharp criticism from opposition parties. Joël Arseneau, health spokesperson for the Parti Québécois, condemned the proposal as a breach of the CAQ’s prior commitments to provide a doctor for every Quebecer. Arseneau argued it’s not a sustainable solution and could negatively impact Quebecers’ access to family doctors, especially those who have waited years to secure one. He expressed particular concern that GAP, which would be managed by the new Santé Québec health agency, could suffer from its own accessibility issues, thus creating additional barriers for residents in need of regular care.

Pontiac MNA André Fortin, Liberal health critic, questioned the potential impact of the proposal on patient-doctor relationships. “This approach is a reactive measure that could dismantle crucial bonds between patients and their family doctors,” Fortin stated. He argued Quebecers will ultimately be pushed to emergency rooms or private clinics, “leaving them with an inconsistent healthcare experience.” Fortin also stressed that instead of offering long-term solutions, the policy might cause greater instability in healthcare access, particularly affecting preventive health services.

Vincent Marissal of Québec Solidaire added that this measure could encourage a trend toward private healthcare. He highlighted that even healthy patients benefit from the continuity of care a family doctor provides, noting the history and insight physicians maintain about their patients are crucial, regardless of their health status.

Dr. O’Neill noted that policy decisions from over a decade ago contributed to the doctor shortages seen today, as medical school admissions were cut. “These past decisions are leading to complex gaps in care for Quebec’s aging and diverse population,” he concluded.

TASHI FARMILO

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

 MRC PONTIAC – The MRC Pontiac has applied for $100,000 through Quebec’s Programme aux Collectivités to develop a framework to attract immigrants and ethnocultural minorities, with the goal of fostering their long-term integration and participation in local life.

The funding would enable the MRC to set up a working committee composed of representatives from key sectors including community organizations, education, healthcare, immigration consultation bodies, and the immigrant community. The committee’s primary focus will be to strengthen the region’s ability to act as a welcoming and inclusive community while addressing the pressing need for manpower, a challenge the MRC has been grappling with as its population diversifies.

“This funding provides us with the opportunity to come up with a detailed and actionable plan that will strengthen our community’s ability to welcome and integrate new residents,” said Rachel Floar-Sandé, MRC economic development officer. “As our region continues to diversify, ensuring immigrants feel included and supported is critical for both social cohesion and economic development.”

The Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI), which oversees the program, supports municipalities with a negative economic vitality index, covering up to 75% of eligible expenses to assist with integration efforts. The $100,000 that could be allocated to the MRC Pontiac would be used over the course of one year. The MRC will cover 25% of the costs, including the salaries of two staff members responsible for executing the initiative and other administrative expenses.

The MRC expects to hear if the funding application has been approved in November.

Tashi Farmilo
Local Journalism Initiative

SHAWVILLE – A recent collision between a vehicle and a high school student at a cross walk on Route 303 has reignited longstanding concerns over pedestrian safety in Shawville. The student, a 16-year-old attending Pontiac High School, was hit the afternoon of October 11.

The student, whose name has not been publicly released, has recovered from her minor injuries said Sergeant Marc Tessier of the Sûreté du Québec. “It was an unfortunate accident, and the driver may face infractions, but no criminal charges are expected.” Tessier noted the investigation is ongoing.

Despite the installation of a flashing light at the cross walk, many residents believe it has done little to prevent dangerous situations, especially for students who use it regularly.

“It’s been an issue for years,” said Sid Sharpe, former president of the local youth council, who has advocated for improved safety measures at the cross walk. Sharpe, who herself used the crosswalk regularly as a student, fought to have the flashing light installed after noticing drivers often failed to stop for pedestrians.

“I was on a mobility scooter back then, trying to get to my brother’s baseball games, and cars wouldn’t stop,” Sharpe recalled. “I thought the flashing light would make a difference, but it clearly isn’t enough. We still have drivers who just don’t stop.”

Sharpe recounted a personal test she conducted before the light was installed, where she attempted to cross the road without assistance. Out of nine vehicles, she said only one stopped for her.

Authorities initially resisted calls to install additional safety features, with Sharpe noting Quebec’s Ministry of Transport (MTQ) believed there was “no need” for further intervention. Yet, this recent accident has fuelled growing demands for more action to protect pedestrians.

Residents and advocates are now calling for stronger measures, such as reducing the speed limit near the school and increasing enforcement of distracted driving laws. “It’s not just about the flashing light anymore,” Sharpe said. “People are driving distracted, or they simply don’t care. We need more than a light—we need people to pay attention and to hold them accountable when they don’t.”

The accident has also raised questions about the broader issue of pedestrian safety in rural Quebec, where infrastructure improvements often lag behind growing traffic concerns. The incident has prompted residents to urge local and provincial governments to reassess current safety measures and potentially add more safeguards, such as speed bumps or increased patrols.

The scare has left many wondering how long it will be before another accident occurs at the same spot. “It’s time something more is done, before someone gets seriously hurt—or worse,” concluded Sharpe.

Photo – The cross walk on Rte. 303 in Shawville where a high school student was hit by a car on October 11. (BZ)