Author name: The Gleaner

Consultations continue on new UPA dues system

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

The Union des Producteurs Agricoles (UPA) is wrapping up a series of fall consultations on planned changes to its dues system that will start in 2027.

The aim is to make the system more equitable for all producers by introducing tiered assessments based on business income, and more equitable financing between farm types that pay contributions to the UPA through joint marketing plans and those that do not. This responds to longstanding demands by members for fairer financing.

All producers are currently charged a fixed amount based on the structure of their business. They also pay a variable contribution based on production volume for producers covered by joint plans. Farms operating in certain production sectors that are not subject to a joint plan (a system that lets producers collectively organize their production and marketing) are not required to pay a supplemental contribution to the UPA. The proposed changes would introduce fair adjustments for businesses where 25 per cent or more of gross revenues come from products not subject to a joint plan, such as vegetable and greenhouse producers.

A special information session was organized by the Fédération de l’UPA de la Montérégie’s English-speaking Producers Committee on September 2 to ensure all producers had access to information on the proposed changes. Federation president Jérémie Letellier presented the details of the plan and answered questions from over 15 participants, including several area producers.

The meeting took place in advance of the Haut-Saint-Laurent syndicate’s semi-annual fall consultation, which took place on September 11 in Ormstown, where members voted in favour of the UPA’s plans to implement the new dues system. The proposed changes were also adopted by members of the Beauharnois-Salaberry syndicate on September 5. Producers belonging to the Jardins-de-Napierville syndicate rejected the proposed changes during a meeting in Saint-Michel on September 10.

“Overall, we are not asking for more money than what was approved in the last financing plan that was adopted last year. It represents the same overall envelope, it is just distributed differently within our farms,” said Letellier, while noting some farms might pay less or more depending on their situation.

“There is not perfect solution,” he acknowledged. “But we believe we are taking a huge step this fall with this proposal.”

Once all the local syndicates have voted on the proposed changes, the results will be presented at the federations general council in November, with the objective of presenting a resolution on the new system at the general congress in December.

Consultations continue on new UPA dues system Read More »

Impacts of hot and dry summer are felt across all types of farms

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

It has not been an easy growing season.

“It was the first time in 14 years that we have planted corn in June, and we were borderlining it,” says Jackie Lamb of Lamont Farms in Godmanchester, referring to the cold and wet weather that kept farmers off their fields this spring. Then the temperature spiked up and the rain stopped, leaving thirsty crops to grow under a baking sun that lasted into late August.

Lamb points out that if corn doesn’t get what it needs at critical points during growth stages, the plants just don’t produce as many kernels. Soybeans are more resilient, she explains. “You need a great year to have a great yield of corn. We can have a medium year and still have a decent yield of soybeans.”

As organic producers, Lamb says they have adapted their practices to be more flexible. She and partner Shawn McNamee have incorporated a lot of hay into their rotations and have worked to build organic matter in their soil, which improves its ability to retain moisture and absorb heavy rains. This leads to better effective rainfall and reduced erosion.

The pair also raise sheep, and this summer’s extreme heat was a worry. Large fans installed in the barns has helped, and while electricity bills jumped, McNamee says they did not lose a single animal to heat stress.

Grazing sheep were also moved to specific shady paddocks that are reserved for heat waves. Their wool acts as an insulator, and Lamb says that ensuring higher vegetation in pastureland can reduce the soil temperature significantly. “If they are lying down on a piece of ground that is 10 degrees cooler than an exposed piece of ground, that also helps,” Lamb explains.

“We have to be conscious of the heat. We have to plan for it every year now,” adds McNamee.

Hard on morale

Market gardener Jess Elwell, who is an owner at the Jardins de la Résistance organic farm in Ormstown, says the hot and dry conditions this year caught them off guard after several years of managing wet weather. An employee was essentially dedicated to irrigation this summer, meaning their small team was down one person in the field. “We can only irrigate so much at one time because we only have so much pressure in our tank for the well,” she explains.

Relying on irrigation drip lines or sprinklers also meant losses in direct-seeded crops that did not germinate properly. “I don’t know what it is about rain that’s so much better than water, but vegetables like the rain a lot better,” Elwell explains, noting that a lot of plants just don’t like stress. All of this is exacerbated in a greenhouse, where temperatures can quickly reach sweltering levels.

“This is the first summer in my 16 years of farming where I was like, maybe I’m getting too old for this,” she says. “Now that the temperature has dropped, it’s not that bad. It’s hard for morale on the team,” she adds, while pointing out how everything seems like a big deal when its hot.

“It’s been rough,” she admits. “We have managed to pull through. We have a really good team, and we’ve pulled it off. But it hasn’t been easy this year for sure.”

Impacts of hot and dry summer are felt across all types of farms Read More »

A tasty start to the day for students at École Notre-Dame

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

Sliced honeydew melon was on the breakfast menu for the students at École Notre-Dame in Huntingdon on September 17 as the elementary school launched its breakfast program.

With the financial backing of the Breakfast Club of Canada (BCC) in partnership with the Complices Alimentaires, the program will provide a nutritious meal each morning to the school’s 415 students.

The project underwent a trial period last June before being renewed at the start of the school year. School principal Claudel Brault explained that offering children breakfast helped to create an environment that was conducive to learning and well-being that was appreciated by parents, school staff, and especially the students. “After several weeks of experimentation, it is very gratifying to see the beneficial effects on the concentration, mood, and engagement of the students in class,” said added.

Marie-Josée Lapratte, the director of government and municipal relations with the BCC, explained that the program responds to a growing need for food aid in schools. In recent years, they have seen a 20-per cent growth in existing programs, and the number of schools being added to the waiting lists has exploded.

The BCC now works with Les Complices Alimentaires to provide breakfasts at Chateauguay Valley Regional High School in Ormstown, École secondaire Arthur-Pigeon in Huntingdon, and at Gault Institute in Salaberry-de-Valleyfield. Combined, the organizations feed over 1220 area children per day.

Lapratte said that on top of providing healthy meals, all their programs emphasize eating local. “Foods that are grown here and processed here are important to us,” she explained.

Each meal includes a protein, fruits and vegetables, and whole grains. All the grain options are baked in house at Arthur-Pigeon or CVR, where the Complices Alimentaires also manages the school cafeterias.

Centre de Services Scolaire de la Vallée-des-Tisserands director general Suzie Vranderick highlighted the collaboration as an inspiring example of schools, organizations, and local partners working together to encourage student development and educational success.

A tasty start to the day for students at École Notre-Dame Read More »

Electric buses are back on NFSB routes

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

Six Lion Electric buses covering ten routes with the New Frontiers School Board were back on the roads this week, after they were abruptly pulled from circulation and sidelined on September 10. Electric buses covering nine routes with the Centre de Services Scolaire de la Vallée-des-Tisserands were also temporarily grounded.

In a September 14 communication to NFSB families, the school board confirmed the buses had been inspected and transport companies were waiting on government approval before they could return to service. The companies were required to provide a certificate of compliance to school boards and service centres following the inspection, which dragged on over the week. In the meantime, parents were required to find alternative transport for their children while boards and service centres were able to do little more than provide regular updates to affected families.

According to the NFSB, the boards and service centres received instructions from the education ministry to review evacuation procedures with students by screening a provided safety video and by posting evacuation process posters in buses. Affected NFSB schools, including Hemmingford, Howick, Mary Gardner, St. Willibrord, and Centennial Park elementary schools as well as both Chateauguay Valley Regional and Howard S. Billings high schools, were advised to be more flexible with arrival times and to expect more car and foot traffic in drop-off areas.

The NFSB encouraged parents to speak with their children, as this situation like many other busing issues happened without advance notice, and to ensure that children know what to do in the event their school bus does not arrive.

Electric buses are back on NFSB routes Read More »

Ormstown citizens ask council to wait on library decision

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

More than 100 Ormstown residents participated in a public consultation regarding the future location of the municipal library on September 17 at Chateauguay Valley Regional High School.

The municipality had hoped to gauge the public’s opinion on options for renewing or relocating the library, but attendees called on the council to instead delay any decision until after the November election.

The meeting was led by Stéphane Bernier of the Montreal-based architectural and design firm Aedifica. He explained that the library’s current lease on Isabelle Street will expire at the end of the year, and a decision needs to be made before then.

Bernier described the advantages and disadvantages of the current location as well as proposed renovations to the town hall basement to accommodate the library. He then presented three scenarios, and what each might represent financially for the municipality.

A straightforward renewal at the Isabelle location would cost $640,498 over five years, including rent, hydro, insurance, internet, and furnishings. A proposed reduction in rent by building owner Mathieu Huot would represent an investment of $502,585 over the same period.

The municipality estimates the third scenario of renovating the town hall basement to accommodate the library, as well as the creation of a courtyard linking the library to the outside, would cost $265,615 over the next five years.

Citizens then asked questions and expressed their concerns. Some questioned why other options were not being considered, such as moving the library back to its original location next to the recreation centre. Others expressed concerns about the basement as an unsuitable location, while several citizens cautioned against rushing the decision.

Huot, who was in attendance, said that extending the lease to allow a new council more time to form a decision would be possible.

Ormstown citizens ask council to wait on library decision Read More »

André Brunette seeks another mandate in Huntingdon

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

Huntingdon’s Mayor André Brunette has officially announced his bid for re-election in the upcoming municipal vote.

First elected in 1995, Brunette served as mayor until 2003, when citizens opted for Stéphane Gendron. Brunette was returned to the job following the 2013 and 2017 elections. He was elected for a third consecutive term in 2021 by acclamation.

“I wake up every morning, and I think of the past 200 years, and what has happened. My goal is to continue what we have started over this last decade,” Brunette said, noting that 12 years ago the town was facing financial difficulties and is now thriving. His platform will emphasize sustained economic progress, community development, and prudent financial management that builds on the successes of the past several years.

Brunette said he hopes to continue to develop the town and attract new residents and businesses, while acknowledging there is work to be done when it comes to the creation of a community centre, revitalizing the town centre and main section of Chateauguay Street, the continued development of housing initiatives, and the preservation of heritage buildings and structures. He explained that as new residential developments will continue to generate additional income, he expects taxes to remain stable even as the municipality invests in major projects.

Brunette emphasized the collaborative culture that exists at the town hall, noting the administration and council meet regularly “as a round-table team” to address issues and plan ahead. “It’s not just the mayor that does the work,” he maintained, noting he was pleased to learn that most, if not all members of the current council will also be running for re-election come November.

André Brunette seeks another mandate in Huntingdon Read More »

Groundwater contamination confirmed at Valley dumping sites 

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

 Research by the Leadership for the Ecozoic research network (L4E) based out of McGill University sounded an alarm this spring over the extent of illegal dumping within the Chateauguay River watershed.

A study of the evolution of the rural landscape by masters student Alex DePani and cartographer Dan Garand identified 284 potential sites of concern, including 16 documented sites, or “sacrifice zones,” where loads of construction waste have been dumped. Two of these sites, both in Franklin, are currently being monitored and reports have confirmed toxic groundwater contamination at levels above government standards.

A 2023 environmental characterization study ordered by the Ministère de l’Environnement, de la Lutte Contre les Changements Climatiques, de la Faune et des Parcs of the site along Route 201 was recently obtained by the L4E group, through an access to information request. The study, which was completed by the Montreal-based engineering firm Geninovation, characterized an area of around 73,000 square metres on parts of eight lots owned by the company 4507380 Canada Inc., also known as Les Entreprises V.A.G. Distribution, and its president, Éric Jodoin.

The 530-page report estimates that just under 79,770 metric tons of contaminated soils and waste materials were dumped at the site. At least 123 soil samples were taken from 70 different test pits, as well as 30 samples of raw waste material found on site, seven samples from piles of disposed soil and waste that had not been backfilled, and four groundwater samples from different monitoring wells that were installed at the site.

The majority of the soil samples were classified at A-B contamination levels, while some were contaminated at B-C levels. Sulfur concentrations were found in the raw waste samples in the backfill, and asbestos was also found to be present. All four groundwater samples showed signs of contamination above the environment ministry’s Surface Water Resurgence (RES) criterion, which establishes a threshold to protect overall ecosystem health.

The study concludes the groundwater is being contaminated by the illegally dumped waste material, and warns the groundwater is moving beyond the immediate area. The monitoring wells sampled water between 1.3 and 2.3 metres deep, and the report points out that nearby wells are on a different aquifer layer, which reduces the risk of contamination. At the same time, the report recommends a hydrogeological study take place to determine whether these layers may be connected. 

L4E has also obtained a copy of a report completed in 2024 by the firm Solmatech on the Rang Dumas site, which found groundwater samples from three monitoring wells were contaminated with arsenic above standard drinking water thresholds.

DePani says the findings of the two studies suggest that illegal dumping can lead to groundwater contamination. He adds that the broader impacts of such contamination on regional water systems, such as the Chateauguay River watershed, and local wells remains largely unknown and should be studied.

Groundwater contamination confirmed at Valley dumping sites  Read More »

Murals on silos: MRC unveils signature rural art attraction

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

Those out for a countryside drive along Franklin’s bucolic Rue de l’Artifice will no doubt have noticed a pair of towering murals painted on roadside silos at the Ferme Sylvain et Pascal Vincent Inc.

The MRC du Haut-Saint-Laurent celebrated the completion of the giant murals during a brief inauguration ceremony on September 9 for the first sky-high works of art to be included in the Circuit de Fresques sur Silos Agricoles. Two more murals will be added to the unique series at Thornbrae Farms in Très-Saint-Sacrement and Framboise et Parapluies in Saint-Chrysostome before the end of the year.

“It is with immense pride and deep gratitude that I mark this milestone in the promotion of our collective agricultural heritage,” said MRC prefect Louise Lebrun. “Together, we have sown the first seeds of a unique cultural journey that will raise our region’s profile far beyond its borders,” she added, before thanking the Vincent family, the other participating farms, partners, and artists for their belief in this bold initiative.

Rooted in the rural landscape of the Haut-Saint-Laurent, each mural will tell a story about the culture, farms, and traditions that are integral to the region’s identity. “Silos are symbolic for farmers, but they tend to get lost in the background,” said Nancy Brunelle, the MRC’s cultural development coordinator. “We are used to seeing them, but now we’re using this emblem to create a giant mural that will become an open-air exhibition,” she explained.

“With 93 per cent of the MRC’s territory being agricultural land, the project pays tribute to agricultural producers, promotes the profession, and highlights the heritage built by farmers. It is truly a tribute,” added the MRC’s tourism development agent, Sébastien Guy.

The first silos were painted by the Montreal-based collective of muralists known as Arts du Commun. “Everyone was very satisfied and amazed by the result. The family is happy,” said Brunelle. “It’s a good start.”

The silo at Thornbrae Farms has been washed and primed and work is expected to begin right away on the mural. Owner Bill Anderson has been enthusiastic about the project since it was first introduced. “I think it is absolutely wonderful,” he says, noting the 70-foot-tall mural to be painted at his farm by Montreal muralist and graffiti artist Bosny will be very different from those gracing the silos in Franklin.

“We want to explore different graphic styles and techniques,” explained Brunelle. For example, Arts du Commun painted with a compressor and projected the image onto the silo while adjusting proportions to the curvature of the concrete structure. Bosny prefers to work with a grid system to scale but paints freehand using spray cans.

The silo at Framboise et Parapluie will be painted by a different graffiti art muralist known in Montreal as Peru143. A fourth mural is expected to start this year and will be completed next spring.

Both Brunelle and Guy hope the silos will create opportunities for tourists and locals to approach agriculture from a new perspective. “Agriculture often means milk, vegetables, grains, and livestock, but between the raw product and the consumer is the farmer,” Guy explained. “All of the agricultural producers together represent an extraordinary social capital, and when we talk about bringing city folk closer to agriculture, we mean finding ways for producers to talk with people from outside the region. Our farms will become a place of exchange, and that is very rare,” he added.

Murals on silos: MRC unveils signature rural art attraction Read More »

Date is set for asphalt factory appeal before the Administrative Tribunal

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

The Tribunal Administrative du Québec (TAQ) has accepted to hear an appeal of a Commission de Protection des Terres Agricoles du Québec (CPTAQ) decision to reject the operation of an asphalt plant on Covey Hill.

The appeal was filed with the TAQ last December by Groupe Chenail Inc., which is behind the installation of the asphalt factory at the Carrières Ducharme quarry in Havelock. The Saint-Rémi-based company is contesting the CPTAQ’s final decision, which was issued last November, on twelve grounds.

Over 20 individuals, groups, and organizations presented arguments against the asphalt factory before the CPTAQ, including the Fédération de l’UPA de la Montérégie, which has been named in the appeal as an impleaded or third party, among others. This includes members of an ad hoc committee formed by the municipality of Havelock, who met weekly for over a year to prepare recommendations and arguments against the factory.

The mandate for the committee was set to expire in November, but it was extended after the municipal council adopted a motion during its regular meeting on September 2.

The online hearing before the TAQ is scheduled to take place on November 19. Known as a tribunal of last instance, decisions rendered by the tribunal are generally final and cannot be appealed to another court.

Date is set for asphalt factory appeal before the Administrative Tribunal Read More »

Growing population is a challenge for the CSSVT

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

The Centre de Services Scolaire de la Vallée-des-Tisserands (CSSVT) has seen its student population grow for an eighth straight year, with more than 470 additional students attending classes this September.

In the youth sector, at least 1,277 students started preschool, while 5,951 students were enrolled at the elementary level, and 3,961 at high school. The adult sector has also seen an increase in enrollment, with approximately 463 students at the Centre de Formation Professionnelle du Suroît and nearly 870 students at the Centre de Formation Générale des Adultes des Tisserands.

“This growth reflects the demographic vitality of our region and the confidence that families and adults have in our institutions,” said CSSVT director general Suzie Vranderick. She explained that as preschool registration levels are stable, she attributes the widespread growth to booming demographic trends and the increase in housing developments throughout the Haut-Saint-Laurent, Salaberry-de-Valleyfield, and Beauharnois regions.

A total of 24 modular classrooms were added this year to accommodate growing numbers at already crowded schools, bringing the number installed over the past four years up to 82. Vranderick said they have allowed the CSSVT to respond quickly to population growth while waiting on the construction of new schools.

Students attending École Secondaire de la Baie-Saint-François are now able to partially access an expanded section at the Valleyfield-based high school which includes a new gymnasium and classrooms. Vranderick championed the school administration’s creative reorganization of available space within the school over the past several years while waiting on the expansion, which had originally been scheduled for completion in 2023.

Vranderick confirmed the CSSVT has requested the construction of a new 1,000-student high school in Valleyfield, as well as the expansion of Arthur-Pigeon high school in Huntingdon and the École Secondaire des Patriotes de Beauharnois.

Two additional elementary schools are being built in Valleyfield, including one in the Grande-Île sector that is expected to open next year. Construction will start this spring on the second new school, which will be located on the grounds of the existing Frédéric-Gérard elementary school in the La Baie sector.

Vranderick explained that the CSSVT’s infrastructure needs are planned over ten years in advance. She noted this involves working closely with the municipalities within the territory to ensure they keep up with demographic changes and can continue to accommodate new students each year.

Growing population is a challenge for the CSSVT Read More »

To move or not to move: Ormstown faces urgent library decision

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

The municipality of Ormstown will be holding a public information session on September 17 to discuss options for the future of the municipal library.

The consultation will be led by representatives from Aedifica, an architectural and design firm based in Montreal. Mayor Christine McAleer said that the municipality called in external experts to ensure all information pertaining to the potential relocation of the library is presented in a transparent and neutral manner.

“We are going to cover all the points,” McAleer explained, noting that the council is considering the advantages and disadvantages of renewing the current lease, with or without negotiation, or completely relocating the library.

The meeting will address the implications of keeping the library at its current location while providing details on a proposal from the current building owners. Possible cost differences if the library was moved to the basement of the town hall will also be discussed.

“I think there may be some people who associate basements with dungeons,” said McAleer, before noting that a sketch of what the library might look like if it was moved will also be presented.

McAleer explained that the debate over relocating the library is one she and several councillors had been hoping to resolve before the end of their term.

Ormstown director general Daniel Leduc added that a decision on the library was now especially urgent because the municipality must give notice to the building owners before the end of the year.

With time running out before the upcoming municipal elections, Leduc confirmed that the council is divided over the issue. In the event the current council is unable to reach a clear decision, the future of the library will be deferred to the council elected in November.

The information session will take place at 6:30 p.m. on September 17 at the recreation centre.

To move or not to move: Ormstown faces urgent library decision Read More »

A good beginning for a booming CSSVT

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

Nearly 12,500 young people and adults attending schools managed by the Centre de Services Scolaire de la Vallée-des-Tisserands (CSSVT) were back in the classroom for the start of the new year on September 2.

As the fastest growing service centre or board in Quebec, the CSSVT has been tasked with balancing a rapidly growing student population with overall budget reductions of around $5 million. This has been complicated further by a new measure introduced by the provincial government which aims to optimize human resources by imposing a target number of full-time equivalents.

CSSVT director general Suzie Vranderick acknowledged that the budget has been more challenging this year, while noting that all service centres are having to navigate these targets while managing budget restrictions. The fact the CSSVT has grown by six per cent over last year simply adds to the headache.

“We’ll get there,” Vranderick said. “We want to contribute to the government’s efforts, but at the same time, we also want to ensure the success of our students,” she explained. “Thanks to rigorous planning and teamwork, the impact on schools has been limited.”

At least 34 new groups have been added across the service centre, which requires teachers, but other services as well, including classroom support. “It’s a puzzle. We must find the pieces and put them in the right place,” added François Robichaud, the CSSVT’s assistant director general.

As of September 2, the CSSVT had filled 99.6 per cent of its teaching positions, with only four remaining vacant. According to the government’s education dashboard, there are an additional nine support staff openings, and eight jobs available for educational professionals.

Vranderick noted that the human resources team began interviewing for positions in April, before confirming the CSSVT was in a very good position for the start of the year: “People will be in place, student services will be there, but it is a challenge every day,” she admitted.

A good beginning for a booming CSSVT Read More »

The NFSB will tackle bullying from day one

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

The prevention of bullying and violence in New Frontiers School Board schools is among the top priorities identified by director general Mike Helm for the 2025-2026 school year.

The decision to prioritize the reduction of bullying and violence stems from a report submitted in June, by members of a task force established last year in response to mounting concerns over the increasing number of incidents within NFSB schools and centres. The document includes a series of 19 recommendations and concrete measures to reduce bullying and violence within the system.

“I was able to take some time over the summer to really read through the report, and to digest it,” said Helm, who presented the task force’s findings to the council of commissioners on August 26. “There was a tremendous amount of work done by this team in gathering all these different elements,” he added, noting the board will report on its progress regularly as administrators work to implement the recommended measures.

The task force included a cross-section of around 13 individuals including staff members, teachers, principals, special education consultants, and custodians. The committee met numerous times and held several public consultations, community nights, and town hall meetings to gather as much information as possible.

“The idea was to consult with our community to build a plan specific to New Frontiers, knowing that it is a priority for us, but also a priority for the Ministry,” said NFSB assistant director general Joyce Donohue, who led the task force. “Our summary of recommendations is over the short, medium, and long term so that it’s digestible for the board, should we have the capacity to implement all 19,” she explained. The measures span between a timeline of one to two years for easily managed cost-effective solutions, and up to four years or more for those that involve cultural shifts within the system.

Donohue acknowledged there is not anything especially new or groundbreaking included in the recommendations. “We are already doing a lot of great things. It’s a question of ensuring these are done across the board and choosing what it is that we want to continue to move forward with,” she said. For example, the first recommendation involves ensuring each school has an anonymous reporting system in place, where students can report incidences of bullying or violence without fear of retaliation.

Another short-term recommendation involves ensuring each school is implementing the protocols included in a new anti-bullying and violence template provided by the Education Ministry consistently and in the same manner.

The report also references the NFSB’s Commitment to Success Plan which sets an objective of increasing a sense of belonging among students. “Part of that is students feeling safe in their environment,” said Helm. “So, if we put these strategies in place and create a greater sense of belonging and citizenship with students, that is going to have an impact, and there will be less violence and less bullying taking place in our buildings.”

The NFSB will tackle bullying from day one Read More »

Communication system for firefighters is up and running

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

A new radio communication system for area firefighters went live on August 11, following a decade-long effort by members of the Regroupement d’Entraide Mutuelle de Feu du Sud-Ouest du Québec (AEMSOQ) to improve the reliability of their network.

Since 2013, the 11 fire services that make up the South-Western Quebec Fire Mutual Aid Association, including the Franklin, Godmanchester, Hinchinbrooke, Howick, Huntingdon, Ormstown, Saint-Anicet, Sainte-Barbe, Saint-Etienne-de-Beauharnois, Saint-Louis-de-Gonzague, and Saint-Stanislas-de-Kostka departments, have reported “dead zones” within their radio communication network.

Until recently, a single antenna served the entire territory, leaving several patches without adequate coverage. In a statement, AEMSOQ president Joël Trudeau explained that communications between the emergency dispatch centre and teams in the field was impossible in some areas. “These dead zones posed a major challenge to the safety of responders and the population,” he said.

The board of directors launched a project in 2019 to resolve the issue, which included the installation of a new tower. This required the completion of radio wave propagation studies, a search for suitable land, the purchasing of new equipment, and much more.

The project was continued in 2022, when a new board took over and was faced with financing the initiative. Still in the planning stages, the board presented a budget to the member municipalities, which unanimously approved of the project. A public consultation process was launched the following year to address any concerns over the installation of a tower at a location on Ridge Road.

The partner municipalities contributed $120,000 to the project, which included the construction of a 30-metre tower in compliance with Health Canada and Transport Canada standards, fencing along the perimeter of the site, and the equipment needed to transition the old analog system to digital technology.

Finally, at noon on August 11, the new system was switched on, with four sites now in operation in Franklin, Covey Hill, Sainte-Barbe, and the new Ridge location in Godmanchester.

In his statement, Trudeau highlighted the significance of this collective achievement as essential to public safety, while recognizing the municipalities for their support, collaboration and trust in the project.

Communication system for firefighters is up and running Read More »

It’s a colourful return for students at École Notre-Dame

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

A fun surprise is in store for students at École Notre-Dame elementary school in Huntingdon.

Members of the school’s parent participation organization (PPO), including artist Marie-eve Hurteau, have created a new mural in the main hallway on the first floor of the school. The artwork replaces an outdated mural that was painted over 20 years ago that was beginning to chip and deteriorate.

Hurteau said she wanted to create a bright and colourful space, incorporating abstract designs to encourage the students’ imaginations and self-expression. The school’s only instruction was to produce something “beautiful,” and to possibly include a unicorn. “There were a few tweaks and inspiration that came along,” she laughs, suggesting that as she proceeded, she began to see what was missing and what would tie the project together.

PPO President Nadya Kovacs explained that the mural is part of a larger initiative to bring more joy, inclusion, and a fresh perspective to the building. “We tried to look into different grants for art projects, but unfortunately there was nothing available for the school,” she said. Without direct funding, the community rallied behind the project. Half of the paint was provided by the Quincaillerie RONA home improvement store in Huntingdon, and Hurteau donated her time and equipment. The PPO covered the remaining costs with funds raised during the previous school year.

“I am looking forward to the kids seeing it,” said Kovacs. “There are a lot of different colours, and a lot of ‘moving parts,’ but there is a little bit of everything and something for everyone,” she added.

Students will also find their library has been completely renovated thanks to a grant from IKEA. The students helped to empty the room and to paint at the end of last year, while PPO members helped with decorating and reinstallation.

Along with the mural and the library, Kovacs said the school will also be unveiling a new logo as part of the big reveals awaiting students when they return to classes next week.

It’s a colourful return for students at École Notre-Dame Read More »

Renovation projects are nearly complete at NFSB schools

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

Delays to summer construction and renovation projects caused by unpredictable snags at some New Frontiers School Board schools will not interfere with the start of the school year on September 2.

NFSB director general Mike Helm confirmed that over five million dollars were invested in six projects across the board, including renovation work at Chateauguay Valley Regional High School (CVR), Ormstown Elementary School (OES), and Hemmingford Elementary School. While much of the work was completed on schedule, Helm said certain projects may continue into the first weeks of classes.

Exterior brickwork and landscaping at the front entrance at Hemmingford Elementary were progressing well, until workers discovered contaminated land while taking up pieces of the old entry and walkway. Specialists were called in to properly remove and load the soil before it was shipped to a special location. Helm said the work there will likely extend into the second weekend of September, when the landscaping is expected to be completed. “It will not necessarily look aesthetically pleasing for those first few days, but it will not impact the students or people coming and going into the building,” he maintained.

Work to repair one of the exits at Ormstown Elementary School was also delayed. Helm confirmed that following the discovery of some structural concerns, the NFSB worked with an engineer to ensure the exit would be sound and to code once completed. This involved some additional work that was not part of the original schedule. “We are going to use it just as an emergency exit for now,” he said, noting the renovation will continue for a few additional weekends mostly to ensure workers and construction noises are not a distraction for students during the day.

Humidity issues within the school over the summer also led to delays around the installation of new flooring in the gymnasium at OES. Physical education classes will take place outdoors during the first week of school, but students will be playing on the new surface before mid-September.

The renovations to the washrooms at CVR are expected to be completed on schedule, Helm confirmed, while acknowledging that the construction work slightly complicated the Jump Start orientation program for new Grade 7 students which took place on August 20 and 21. The work will see the removal of the somewhat-iconic “bird bath” water fountains from the ground-floor washrooms. These have been replaced by more modern sinks. “I think it is going to be quite impressive,” said Helm of the upgrade.

Renovation projects are nearly complete at NFSB schools Read More »

School supplies can take a financial toll

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

Callan Forrester – LJI reporter

School is almost back in session, and the back-to-school prep is in full swing. For many parents, this prep includes a long list of supplies that can come with a pretty hefty price tag. This can be a cause for stress for many members of the community, and Une Affaire de Famille is working to ease some of that end-of-summer worry.

Mélanie Tardif has been working with Une Affaire de Famille for about 15 years. When she first started, the organization was receiving funding to buy everything on school supplies lists to give to members of the community in need. A few years ago, this funding was cut. In response, they started an academic co-op. “We could have said that we lost financing so we’re not doing it anymore, but we kept going,” Tardif says.

To be a part of the co-op, a parent or family needs to join before April 1 and then participate in a fundraising activity during the year; in August they will receive the tools they need to start at school. For example, in June, the co-op bagged groceries at Super C, and later this year they will be doing a fundraiser with Genie in a Bottle. The members of the co-op get to choose what kinds of fundraisers they want to take part in during the year.

Marraine Étoilée, an organization that helps disadvantaged youth across Quebec, also reached out to UAF to offer support this year. They donated backpacks and lunchboxes for back-to-school and will be donating winter coats and accessories later this year.

So much stuff

One of the problems for parents is the sheer amount of stuff each student needs to bring to school. “It’s really expensive. And what I realized last year when I was doing my shopping is that the lists are more and more complicated. It’s really specific stuff,” says Tardif. Sometimes, schools will have the list broken up into English and French sections, and students basically need to double what they get. To Tardif, it feels like sometimes the schools “don’t know the population who live in the Haut-Saint-Laurent,” and that these lists are often financially inaccessible.

A recent Leger survey found that 60 per cent of parents across Canada found school supplies were more expensive this year. Close to two-thirds of respondents said the cost of going back to school is a financial strain, with younger parents seeing the most significant impact to their family budget. The survey also revealed that 58 per cent of parents find the back-to-school season stressful, with most parents preferring to buy all of the supplies on school lists at the start of the year.

This year, UAF didn’t have a lot of members sign up for the co-op, but part of that is because of the April 1 deadline. “Parents do their best, they do what they can and try to get the maximum out of supplies. In April they think they’ll have lots of stuff that can be reused … At the end of August, they realize that they don’t have enough.”

Having new school supplies helps children to start the school year off right. “It’s the base of everything. A kid who enters kindergarten or Grade 1 with new supplies and a backpack feels ready and confident and is excited to show his stuff to his friends. This is the beginning of having self confidence that can grow from there,” Tardif explains. She adds that as adults, people have a home or a car or a family that they are proud of. But as a kid, all you have is “your personality and your school supplies!”.

UAF accepts donations from the community, but Tardif asks that the supplies be new, and that donors basically follow the rule that “If it’s not good for you, it’s not good for someone without money.” She also reminds people that schools want the basics. They don’t want supplies that are covered in the fun characters from TV shows, because it can be a distraction. The best things to donate are neutral, like HB pencils and coloured duotangs.

The mindset around school supplies right now seems to be that kids always want and need the newest supplies that follow the latest trend. Tardif encourages parents to think a little more moderately about supplies so that they last longer than the current trends, and things like backpacks and lunchboxes can be used for a couple of years before needing to be replaced.

School supplies can take a financial toll Read More »

Endangered species project extended to 2026

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

Callan Forrester – LJI reporter

Alternative Land Use Services (ALUS) and the Fédération de l’Union des Producteurs Agricoles (UPA) de la Montérégie have been collaborating on a project since 2020 to help protect endangered species of animals in the region. Phase 2 of the project, which is called “Mobilization of the Montérégie agricultural community for the conservation of species at risk and their habitats,” started in 2023 and has recently been extended to 2026. The project is being supported financially by Environment and Climate Change Canada. The species that are part of this project include birds, reptiles/amphibians, and pollinators.

The project works with farmers in the region so they know what part they can play in protecting these species. Julien Pagé, the first vice-president of the UPA, says “We approached producers about different endangered species so they could look into changing their methods to better what they do to protect the species that are in peril.” Some of the ways they do this are educating farmers on identifying these species and learning what steps can be taken to protect them, such as delaying hay mowing to protect certain birds, or growing alternating flower strips for pollinators.

The UPA also offers resources on its website that inform about the importance of the projects. Pagé says, “We have brochures, and on the website, we really wanted to explain how to identify the birds we want to protect, so we can know what we can do. We have to know their behaviour so we can know what we can do to help.”

Projects like this are extremely important to the ecosystem. “It’s important for everyone. It is hard to measure just how far the impact goes when we lose a species and everything involved with biodiversity … Each time we have a species endangered it’s a threat to the ecosystem,” Pagé says. The project is also a way to reduce the amount of chemical pollution in the region. “When we can naturally reintroduce predators, we can lower the amount of chemical products we have to use,” he adds.

Pagé says that “It’s important to know this project is to show that producers can make the solution and are there for the community.” The goal is to bring in as many producers as possible. The Montérégie is a large region with different territories and has diverse flora and fauna even within a given portion. This means that having different farmers participate throughout the region allows for the recognition of patterns between a diverse array of species.

So far, the measures that have been put in place have been doing well, and Pagé says that they have been impressed with the results to date.

Endangered species project extended to 2026 Read More »

Huntingdon inaugurates new playground equipment

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

Families in Huntingdon have a new municipal playground to discover.

The town council officially inaugurated a two-storey playground installation at the Leo-Cappiello Park on West Street on August 13. The park was completely renewed to accommodate the new structure, which features a colourful treehouse design including rope ladders, multiple slides, and different levels.

“The old park was quite obsolete,” said Huntingdon’s mayor, André Brunette. “The fence was rusted and the swings and the slide as well,” he added, while acknowledging the equipment had become less safe for children.

Brunette confirmed that while the purchase of the equipment from the Lévis-based playground manufacturers, Jeux 1000 Pattes, was approved as part of the 2025 budget, the apparatus was originally destined for the park on Russell Island. “We decided to build it here,” said Brunette, while suggesting the state of the older equipment necessitated the change of plan.

The installation required the pouring of a concrete slab to provide a solid foundation for the structure. The park was then renovated and landscaped to include four park benches and a picnic table. “There are more families now in this part of town, so it was time to do this,” said Brunette. “The kids are already playing on it.”

The cost for the structure and installation was just under $125,030, while the total cost to renew the park was $146,003, without including the time spent by municipal employees who poured the concrete slab, built the furniture, and landscaped the grounds.

Huntingdon inaugurates new playground equipment Read More »

Besombes and six candidates to run as a team in Ormstown election

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

An Ormstown mayoral candidate, Philippe Besombes, has assembled a full slate of six to run with him as a team during the November municipal elections.

Calling themselves the “United for our Community” team, the group features several sitting councillors running for re-election including Valérie Taillefer, Jacques Guilbault, and Michel Emond. The candidates for the remaining three seats are Jane Fairhurst-Aiken, René Gauthier, and Robert Greig.

“Forming an election team is new in Ormstown, but given the current challenges, it has become evident for many of us that we need cohesion, collaboration, dialogue, and teamwork,” said Besombes. “This collaboration will foster constructive exchanges and allow us to address the needs of all citizens,” he added, noting the candidates present a diverse representation of the Ormstown population.

Besombes has worked as a manager and director in regional health facilities for over 20 years. He is currently a lecturer at the Université de Montréal and president of the Association des Gens d’Affaires d’Ormstown et des Environs (AGAO+). He is also the vice-president of the Barrie Memorial Hospital Foundation.

Fairhurst-Aiken has moved from managing the Ormstown recreation centre and pool in her youth to her current work as a guidance counselor at the Chateauguay Valley Career Education Centre. Taillefer is involved in environmental issues, social and affordable housing, and mental health as the executive director of the non-profit Ancre et Ailes. Both women hope to address current challenges while building a sustainable future so that Ormstown continues to feel like home.

Greig is the president of the Barrie Memorial Hospital Foundation, and he comes from a family deeply rooted in Ormstown. Gauthier owns the BMR hardware store and is very active within the community, as is former bus driver and recent retiree Guilbault, who enjoys participating in projects that benefit locals. Emond is also a familiar name within the community, and his background in computer science and water treatment are an asset. All four men say they strongly believe in listening to the community before making decisions.

The team will base their campaign on several priorities, including infrastructure and water management, responsible budget management, transparency, and citizen participation. “The way our team sees it, a municipality is a continuum. You have to build on what is already there and ensure continuity,” said Besombes, who, if elected, would continue on with actions taken by the current administration. “Priorities may change, details may change, but fundamentally, we are not going to turn everything upside down,” he explained.

The municipality’s longstanding water issues will continue to be a top priority, said Besombes, suggesting that while some things have been achieved, there is an urgent need to go further. “There is a lot of planning to be done,” he acknowledged, saying work must move forward in terms of financing major infrastructure projects.

Besombes said his team also recognizes the need to ensure that municipal infrastructure can absorb any new developments. New housing would influence not only water and sewage systems, but also the local schools, health institutions, and the municipality’s ecological balance and cultural heritage. “We can set our conditions and achieve something that is fair and balanced,” he explained, suggesting the candidates would value public consultations and create committees to encourage citizen participation.

Besombes and six candidates to run as a team in Ormstown election Read More »

Louise Lebrun retires from municipal politics 

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

After 16 years as mayor of the municipality of Sainte-Barbe, Louise Lebrun is stepping back from municipal politics.

First elected in 2009, Lebrun said she is retiring with a sense of accomplishment and pride. In a post to social media, the mayor listed several key projects and initiatives that took place during her term. She noted the construction of sewer and water systems, the construction of a new fire station and the addition of fire and rescue vehicles, the expansion of both the Centre Barberivain and the town hall, and new developments in the municipal park as well as the creation of a waterfront park.

There are several projects scheduled for the near future, including the opening of an intermunicipal ecocentre this fall, the expansion of the Centre Barnerivain and the town hall, the construction of a 44-space daycare centre expected to open in 2026, and new residential developments that will see the municipality’s population expand from 1,400 to 2,000 residents.

Along with the municipal council, Lebrun has steered the municipality through several strategic planning initiatives in urban and economic development as well as communications, while introducing family- and salary-related policies as well as better working conditions for municipal employees.

“I am leaving knowing that I have fulfilled the mission I set for myself: to give every citizen a sense of belonging to the community,” she wrote. “I am leaving behind a municipality that is financially sound, well equipped, and rich in human resources,” she added, before noting she hopes the newly elected council will continue this momentum “because in the municipal world, it never slows down.”

Councillor Daniel Pinsonneault thanked Lebrun for her devotion to the municipality before announcing he was ready to take on the charge. First elected to council in 2021, Pinsonneault launched his campaign on August 16.

“These years of commitment have allowed me to better understand the issues that concern us all and to build strong ties within our community,” said Pinsonneault, who hopes to continue working as a team with those elected to council in November. 

Louise Lebrun retires from municipal politics  Read More »

Municipal commission takes the reins in Saint-Chrysostome

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

The Commission Municipale du Quebec has seized control in Saint-Chrysostome after four municipal councillors quit the council, leaving the municipality without enough members to make decisions.

During a special council meeting on July 24, councillors Marc Roy, Jean-Luc Payant, Richard Beaudin, and Martin Lafond resigned one after the other, citing an unhealthy climate within the council, a lack of leadership on the part of mayor Steve Laberge, and uncertainty that things would improve before the November elections.

In an exceptional measure, Sylvie Piérard and Richard Brisson, who are both members of the Commission Municipale, have been appointed to temporarily administer the municipality, pass necessary resolutions, and maintain services for citizens until a new council is elected and quorum is restored.

The sudden resignations were submitted in the wake of a harassment complaint filed earlier this year by one employee against another, and the publication of a report by the Direction des Enquêtes et des Poursuites en Intégrité Municipale (DEPIM) alleging mismanagement by the municipal council.

The report follows an investigation by the commission’s municipal integrity investigation and prosecution branch that found that the municipal council was negligent in its failure to properly address the harassment complaint, which demonstrated “a significant lack of understanding of the roles and responsibilities of municipal elected officials.”

An earlier investigation by an independent firm concluded that a municipal employee had been psychologically and sexually harassed by another employee. The report recommended the situation be dealt with quickly; however, certain council members resisted the seriousness report’s conclusions.

The DEPIM report notes that disciplinary measures were eventually adopted during a council meeting on May 12, but alleges this was done in response to the commission’s investigation. The employee in question was suspended for four weeks, though the decision was not unanimous among council members.

The DEPIM concluded that the council’s inaction impacted the work environment at the municipality, where several employees have been on leave or resigned since the start of the year including the person who filed the harassment complaint. The report states that the municipality is now in a precarious situation, with few employees and difficulties recruiting new staff.

The DEPIM states that Laberge suggested the council’s inaction can be explained by the lack of senior management, as the director general at the time was on leave from early January. The mayor was also unable to intervene or make decisions regarding the situation due to a conflict of interest.

The report recommends that the municipality review its policy preventing workplace harassment and violence to ensure it complies with current legislation, adopt measures to ensure a workplace free of harassment, and provide municipal employees and incoming council members with training on harassment. The report also recommends the adoption of a bylaw that delegates human resource management to senior administrators within the municipality.

The DEPIM notes that an assessment of the work climate in Saint-Chrysostome was mandated by the municipality following the findings of its investigation. The report, which also includes several recommendations, was presented to the council on June 2.

Municipal commission takes the reins in Saint-Chrysostome Read More »

NFSB joins QESBA’s challenge to Education budget rules

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

The New Frontiers School Board (NFSB) has formally joined the Quebec English School Boards Association’s (QESBA) legal challenge against budgetary measures imposed by the Quebec Ministry of Education that restrict funding for the 2025-2026 school year.

The NFSB council of commissioners unanimously adopted a motion during an extraordinary meeting on August 14, to join QESBA’s application to challenge the validity of the government’s budgetary rules and to seek a stay of their application. The necessary documents were filed with the Quebec Superior Court on August 15, on behalf of all nine English boards.

According to QESBA, the budgetary measures “infringe upon the management and control rights guaranteed to the English-speaking minority language community under Section 23 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.” The contested rules impose budget reductions, control how available funds are spent through different measures, and prohibit boards and service centres from using any accumulated surplus to offset government cuts.

QESBA asserts that these restrictions undermine the ability of school boards to make “locally accountable financial decisions in the best interest of their students,” while stripping their flexibility to “protect programs, services, and staffing levels across their communities.”

The chair of the NFSB council of commissioners, John Ryan, explained that the commissioners felt the restrictions were not appropriate based on recent court rulings that have upheld the Section 23 rights of school boards to manage and control their institutions. “The main reason we have come in is because of the constitutional issues involved,” he confirmed.

As of press time, the Quebec government had not issued a public reaction to the court challenge. The Education Ministry has imposed a September 26 deadline for school boards and service centres to adopt balanced budgets for the 2025-2026 school year.

NFSB joins QESBA’s challenge to Education budget rules Read More »

The NFSB stands poised and positive as new year begins

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

With just under a week remaining before students return to class, the New Frontiers School Board has filled all 400 of its available teaching positions, making it the only service centre or board not looking to hire in the Montérégie.

“We are doing great in terms of what our needs are for the startup of the school year, both on the adult and the youth side,” said the NFSB’s director general, Mike Helm. The board still has some vacant positions, and schools may be looking to fill additional resource or support roles, he explained, but hiring is being closely monitored due to budget reductions and restrictions.

“For our support staff starting out right now, we are in very good shape,” Helm confirmed. “But we have to take it case by case as we move forward,” he cautioned, noting the board must maintain a balanced budget and stay within its allocated quota for full-time equivalent positions (ETCs).

According to the provincial government’s education dashboard, the Centre de Services Scolaires de la Vallée-des-Tisserands was short around 15 teachers out of 883 positions when the system was last updated on August 18. The data on available posts for support staff and educational professionals was not available as of press time.

Overall, the NFSB is starting the year with budget compressions that amount to around $800,000, including the $511,000 carried over from last winter and $280,000 from reductions announced in the spring. As a result, the school board is aiming to reduce travel expenses, professional development costs, and overtime hours to recuperate these funds. This involves monitoring any activities and initiatives that take place throughout the year that require overtime to be paid. “We need to take that inventory and make the best decisions for each of our communities,” said Helm, before emphasizing the goal is to reduce but not eliminate overtime work.

According to Helm the budget is manageable at this time, but he acknowledged the situation could change rapidly if there are sudden needs to be met within any of the schools. “Right now, we are looking at a balanced budget, and we have put controls in place to monitor our ETCs,” he said.

Helm jokingly referred to the past few months as a working summer, while maintaining that many employees from schools and centres enjoyed the time away and are ready for the start of the year. “We have a lot of great initiatives that came out of last year that we are moving forward with,” he explained.

“We need to be focused on positive elements,” said Helm, noting that this came up during the first meeting with school administrators last week. “Yes, we have these restrictions that we are dealing with, and we need to take things one step at a time, but we can’t dwell in the negative,” he added. “We need to do what is best for our students and their success!” he exclaimed, saying he is feeling optimistic heading into 2025-2026.

The NFSB stands poised and positive as new year begins Read More »

Ormstown lowers speed limits in the village

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

In response to concerns raised by citizens, the municipality of Ormstown has passed a bylaw reducing the speed limits on several streets throughout the village.

The bylaw was adopted unanimously by the council during a special meeting on June 11. The new speed limits, which include reductions to 30 kilometres per hour on several streets, will come into force on September 1.

The streets where circulation has been limited to 30 km/h include sections of or the entire lengths of Rue Bridge, Rue Roy, Rue Georges, Terrasse Bruno-Beaulieu, Rue Victoria, Rue Barrington, Rue Prince-Albert, and the Rue du Marais. Several of the streets affected by the bylaw form school corridors around Ormstown Elementary School, École Notre-Dame-de-Rosaire, and the Jean-XXIII building.

Posted speed limits on all other residential streets situated within the urban perimeter will be reduced to 40 km/h, while sections of 3e Rang, Route 138A, and Chemin Island will soon be restricted to 50 km/h.

The bylaw also limits circulation to below 70 km/h on sections of 3e Rang and Chemin de la Rivière Châteauguay, while part or all of Rang Dumas, Montée Guérin, Rang des Botreaux, Chemin Rivière aux Outardes, 4e Rang, Rang Tullochgorum, Montée du Rocher, Route 138A, Chemin Seigneurial, and both the Upper and Lower Concessions will be reduced to 80 km/h.

The bylaw will also see the introduction of unidirectional or one-way circulation on several streets including Rue Victoria between the intersections with Church and Barrington. The entire length of Terrasse Bruno Beaulieu becomes one-way, as does Rue Fulford between the intersections with Lambton and Church streets.

The provincial government recognized municipalities as local governments with increased autonomy and powers, including the ability to amend speed limits on their road networks without the approval of the Ministère des Transports in 2017. The Ormstown bylaw also notes that the Sûreté du Québec will apply the new speed limits and one-way circulation according to the Quebec Highway Safety Code.

Signs have been installed by the public works department. A 30-day grace period for residents to become accustomed to the changes is now in effect and will expire on September 1.

Ormstown lowers speed limits in the village Read More »

La Bouffe Additionnelle faces fruit and vegetable shortage

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

For the past three weeks, the regular food deliveries to La Bouffe Additionelle from the Moisson Sud-Ouest have included very few fruits and vegetables. The food pantry relies heavily on the regional food bank for fresh produce, explains La Bouffe Additionnelle director Marine Mailloux. “Right now, it’s very sparse,” she says, noting their shelves are empty.

Mailloux says that she and her staff have resorted to buying fruit and vegetables at grocery stores to ensure their food baskets include a minimum of fresh produce. “We look in the flyers for the best discounts,” she explains, noting the organization sometimes receives gift cards as donations. Funds are also used to ensure baskets include milk and eggs as well.

“We prefer to save our cash donations and gift cards for the Christmas baskets, because we know so many count on us at that time,” Mailloux says, while acknowledging that the organization is already looking ahead to a difficult fall and Christmas season as demand for food aid continues to rise. “The gift cards and donations are my backup,” she explains.

In previous years, the food pantry has benefitted from donations of fruits and vegetables from locals, though the hot and dry temperatures have made this a difficult year for home gardens. Mailloux says La Bouffe can accept fruit and vegetables from backyard gardens. Donations do not have to be certified or come from an official farm. Rather than see surplus vegetables go to waste, Mailloux hopes gardeners will consider contributing any extras to be shared with those in need.

After returning from a recent family vacation, the owners of the Jardins Glenelm market garden in Elgin found themselves with an overstock of tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers that were donated to La Bouffe Additionnelle. Mailloux notes that because of the organization’s ability to freeze and process fresh produce with a limited shelf life, they can avoid waste from larger donations.

The food pantry also recently received a generous donation of 136 kilograms of baked goods and products from the new owners of Le Verger du Pirate in Franklin. “We are always especially grateful for donations from our local collaborators,” says Mailloux, who admits they are especially happy when they can offer products from the region.

Mailloux explains that building positive relationships with area producers is important and can lead to innovative projects. She points to the Huntingdon County Farmers’ Market, which launched a special cider in celebration of its 20th anniversary in collaboration with Ferme Black Creek. One dollar from the sale of each bottle will be contributed to La Bouffe Additionnelle.

The food pantry will also be holding a fundraiser at the farmers’ market in Huntingdon on August 20. “We are trying to find solutions as best we can,” Mailloux says, noting the food pantry is always encouraged by the community’s support.

La Bouffe Additionnelle faces fruit and vegetable shortage Read More »

New funds see the NFSB in the black for school year

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

Administrators at the New Frontiers School Board are breathing easier, following a provincial government decision in mid-July to invest an additional $540 million into the education budget.

The NFSB is expecting to receive just under $2 million in additional funding through newly announced measures that directly impact student services, which will help tremendously to balance the budget. Finalized government budget rules still require the board to find savings, but the NFSB’s director general, Mike Helm, said these cuts will be much less dramatic.

“For us, it is now a small reduction overall in the system,” Helm explains, saying the board now expects to come up with a balanced budget. “We are in a position where we should be able to move forward and provide the services that we need to provide,” he confirmed.

Education Minister Bernard Drainville stated that the funds allocated as part of the new measures must be used to provide direct services to students, and that to be eligible, each service centre or board will have to demonstrate that efforts have been made to reduce administrative expenses.

The government continues to insist that school boards and service centres post a balanced budget without tapping into any accumulated surplus. The NFSB Council of Commissioners chair, John Ryan, acknowledges that while the administration is still crunching numbers, it looks encouraging.

In a message sent to all NFSB families, Ryan thanked all those who wrote letters, signed petitions, shared the school boards story, and contacted local MNAs when the news broke about potentially devastating budget reductions earlier this summer.

Ryan maintains that if the earlier budgetary rules and parameters had remained in place without this new injection of funds, the NFSB would have been in a very difficult position. Instead, he pointed out, the government listened to both the public outcry and local MNAs, who were aware of the realities on the ground after having met with NFSB representatives.

“We have made an impact,” he says.

New funds see the NFSB in the black for school year Read More »

Haut-Saint-Laurent silos will soon have a new look

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

At least four farm silos are set to become giant canvasses as part of the MRC du Haut-Saint-Laurent’s Circuit des Fresques sur Silos et Bâtiments Agricoles this summer.

The regional network of murals painted on farm structures has been in development for several years. The MRC’s cultural coordinator, Nancy Brunelle, says the reason for this is that “A complex project of this scale requires a lot of planning, multi-level management, and coordination with a considerable number of people.”

Unique in Quebec, the project has been the subject of several consultations, including a gathering in Ormstown last December, where the local agricultural community was introduced to the concept as well representatives from Ohisse, the social design firm mandated by the MRC to manage the initiative.

At least 18 area producers indicated they were interested in the project following the initial meeting, and three 15-year contracts have now been signed with farmers as part of the first phase. The first silos to be painted will involve the municipalities of Franklin, Très-Saint-Sacrement, and Saint-Chrysostome to create the first of three anticipated loops.

Two concrete silos at the Ferme Sylvain et Pascal Vincent Inc. in Franklin were the first to be selected for the project.Following a call for tenders, the Montreal-based ArtduCommun collective of professional artists with experience in creating large-format contemporary murals has been hired to work with the Vincent family to determine the subject, theme, and content of the artwork to appear on their silo. Calls have also been issued for the two other silos as well.

Brunelle says the MRC has budgeted more than $100,000 per mural for the largest concrete silos, while smaller metal silos are expected to cost less to complete. The project is being funded as part of an agreement between the MRC and the Ministère des Affaires Municipals et de l’Habitation as part of the Fonds Régions et Ruralité-component three funds dedicated to signature innovation.

The MRC is estimating it will take up to a month to finalize the conceptualization and design for each mural and at least another month for production on site, depending on how well the weather cooperates.

Brunelle confirms that apart from the use of their silos and property during the production stage, the participating farms are not required to contribute financially to the project. Once completed, visitors will be able to appreciate the artwork from afar or up close at the participating farms.

“The MRC wants to showcase local farmers and agricultural practices while highlighting attractions, businesses, and companies located nearby,” Brunelle explained, noting the regional government is also looking to enhance its cultural tourism offering while promoting the Haut-Saint-Laurent. The MRC is also hoping the massive murals will also have a positive impact on region’s economic development.

A second phase including several more silos is scheduled to take place during the summer of 2026, and the MRC expects a third phase will also be necessary to complete additional murals on different agricultural buildings to complete the circuit.

Haut-Saint-Laurent silos will soon have a new look Read More »

Summer renovations still on at NFSB schools

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

The New Frontiers School Board is investing approximately $5.2 million in four major construction and renovation projects over the summer.

NFSB director general Mike Helm says the projects are being carried out according to the approved 2024-2025 budget and are not affected by current government reductions.

Two of the projects are taking place in Ormstown, where the washrooms on the main floor at Chateauguay Valley Regional High School are being completely renovated and updated. The tiles on the gymnasium floor at Ormstown Elementary School are being replaced, and work is continuing to renovate the second-floor hallway and certain classrooms.

Exterior brickwork is being done at Hemmingford Elementary School, while renovations to the school’s front entrance and walkway are also taking place.

Finally, a second phase of work to replace windows at Howard S. Billings High School in Chateauguay is underway.

Helm notes that while they are pleased to be completing these projects over the summer, there is some concern about how budget restrictions may impact school renovations in the new year.

The government generally allocates a spending target for such renovations as part of the NFSB’s budget parameters. At the moment, Helm says the board is looking at a steep reduction for the 2025-2026 year to around $1.8 million.

“We are anticipating there will be fewer projects,” confirms Helm.

Summer renovations still on at NFSB schools Read More »

Quebec grants staffing exemption to CISSSMO

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

The Centre Intégré de Santé et de Services Sociaux de la Montérégie-Ouest (CISSSMO) has been granted an exemption to the law governing the use of personnel placement agencies or independent labour to fill staffing shortages over the summer.

The Quebec government passed legislation to phase out the use of staffing agencies within the public healthcare system in 2023. Under section 669 of the Act respecting the governance of the health and social services system, service providers must apply to the Ministry of Health for an exemption on exceptional grounds to call on private agencies to fill staffing vacancies. 

A spokesperson for the CISSSMO’s communications and public affairs department has confirmed the regional health authority made this request earlier in the year.

“This exemption has been granted to the CISSS de la Montérégie-Ouest for a maximum of 51.3 full-time equivalents (FTE), the majority of which are evening, night, and weekend shifts for the period between May 31 and September 30, 2025,” said the spokesperson in an email.

Historically, there is an increase in staffing pressure on health care providers across the province during the summer months due to staff vacations. The exemption provided to the CISSSMO pertains solely to the number of FTE positions and does not correspond to a budget increase. The CISSSMO is also not required to fill all the available positions.

“The exemption is reserved for exceptional situations. It is a last-resort solution to avoid service disruptions if internal measures, such as contingency plans or overtime, prove ineffective or insufficient,” explained the spokesperson.

According to the CISSSMO, only 0.07 per cent of the hours worked since April 1 have been performed by independent workers.

Quebec grants staffing exemption to CISSSMO Read More »

Facing cuts, the NFSB council will allow a deficit budget

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

New Frontiers School Board director general Mike Helm says thoughts of summer vacation are far from top of mind for school administrators, as boards and service centres continue to grapple with government-imposed budget reductions.

The NFSB is facing what could amount to a $4.9-million adjustment once the government’s final budgetary rules and parameters are received. The NFSB had been anticipating these figures in early July to begin seriously crunching numbers; however, as of press time, the parameters had not been delivered.

Helm says he is hopeful the government will have revised its position following feedback provided by school boards and service centres after plans to reduce education funding by at least $510 million dollars. “Reductions may be needed but maybe not to this magnitude,” says Helm. “Maybe we could spread it out over a couple of years instead of trying to take it all out in one year. That would certainly make it a little easier than what we are going through right now.”

As it stands, Helm says he is fairly confident the NFSB can meet its target for full-time equivalent positions, but he is less certain there will be enough funds to cover all the other expense categories. “That is where our bigger concern is now,” he admits.

Considering this uncertainty, the council of commissioners held an extraordinary meeting on July 8 where a motion was passed that calls on the government to withdraw its budgetary rules, withdraw the cuts, and reinstate the rule allowing boards to access any accumulated surplus. The resolution argues it is “neither feasible, nor responsible to fully implement the proposed cuts,” and mandates the NFSB administration to request authorization from the education ministry to run a deficit budget.

“This does not mean that we are not going to be prudent in the budget,” says the NFSB council of commissioners chair, John Ryan. “We are going to be as responsible as we can. Obviously, the government is short on funds, but we have an obligation to provide the services that we do,” he explained.

Helm says he is grateful for the council’s support as they wait for the final parameters. He has spoken with school administrators, and everything is on hold for the moment. “We are going to wait until we know where we stand,” he explains, noting that if reductions are necessary, the board will have to balance these with the potential impacts on students.

“We are dealing with some challenging times, but our intention is to provide to the maximum all of the services, programs and opportunities that we possibly can,” says Helm.

Public outcry continues

Both Ryan and Helm say they are encouraged by the public’s response. “It is not about English or French schools. This is impacting everybody equally. That’s why we are seeing so many different people speaking out in different ways on this,” says Helm, who suggests the cuts could lead to long-term impacts depending on how the boards and service centres manage the situation.

A petition sponsored by Parti Québécois MNA Pascal Bérubé on the National Assembly website has now been signed by over 157,000 concerned citizens. The “Ensemble, unis pour l’école” (Together, United for Schools) coalition representing teachers, support staff, education professionals, and administrators, including those at the NFSB, has also continued to grow.

At least seven new groups have joined the coalition, including École Ensemble, the Quebec English School Boards Association, the Association of Administrators of English Schools of Quebec (AAESQ), the Quebec Intellectual Disability Society, the Association Montréalaise des directions d’établissement scolaire (AMDES), the Coalition de parents d’enfants à besoins particuliers du Québec (CPEBPQ), and the Fédération québécoise de l’autisme (FQA).

The Centre de Services Scolaire de la Vallée-des-Tisserands has not commented publicly on the budget restrictions potentially impacting their schools and centres; however, the Syndicat du Champlain, which represents CSSVT teachers and support staff, issued a statement to its members on June 26 denouncing the measures. The union has also joined the coalition and is demanding school service centres stand up to the government by refusing to implement the proposed budget restrictions.

Facing cuts, the NFSB council will allow a deficit budget Read More »

A change in direction for the CDC du Haut-Saint-Laurent

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

After eleven years at the helm of the CDC du Haut-Saint-Laurent, director Rémi Pelletier is moving on from the post he has held for over a decade.

“It has been such an enjoyable adventure. It wasn’t always easy … there were challenges, but also so much joy with our partners and the people I have met,” he says, while acknowledging he is moving on to new personal and professional challenges outside the region.

Having grown up nearby in Beauharnois, Pelletier was working for the CDC de Beauharnois-Salaberry when the job opened in the Haut-Saint-Laurent. “I was familiar with the rural environment, but I didn’t know the people very well. I was more on the outskirts, but I knew a little about the ecosystem and the organizations. I had my networks, and people had told me about the warmth and closeness of the community,” he said. “I had heard that there was a desire to collaborate. Knowing that resources were really limited, people wanted to work together. When I arrived, this was very evident. It is truly one of the great strengths of the Haut-Saint-Laurent,” he explained.

Pelletier set to work building on this foundation and further strengthening ties within the community sector. He says the dissolution of the Conférence Régionale des Élus de la Vallée-de-la-Châteauguay in 2015, and the transfer of several responsibilities to the MRC, significantly changed the organization at the level of its regional and municipal partners, as well as the culture of collaboration and transparency that previously existed.

Pelletier says that issues related to affordable housing, viable income, and lower average wages, as well as the resulting inequality, are among some of the challenges he has encountered. “I think we’ve worked to embrace difference and to see that people who are less fortunate have their place in the community. They have value, they have the potential to contribute something, but there is still work to be done,” he admits.

On the other hand, Pelletier says there are many examples of successful actions that have taken place during his tenure. He points to the creation of the Biennale du Financement des OBNL, which was a large-scale series of workshops, training sessions, and conferences for non-profit organizations that attracted people from across the country, as a pivotal moment in helping local organizations to think big.

Pelletier says the ability to collaborate with partners has been key within the community sector, with local businesses, and different levels of government. “We have adopted an advocacy approach to effectively get our messages across in a clear but innovative and creative manner.” He highlights the use of actual wrestlers to illustrate the Table Nationale des Corporations de Dévelopement Communautaire’s “KO to OK” campaign, or the most recent partnership with the organization Faire Danser un Village – which saw members of different community organizations come together to dance and celebrate the resilient spirit and solidarity within the community – as examples of the CDC’s unique approach to challenging issues.

“My greatest pride, despite all of the obstacles that won’t be solved overnight, is we are still working together to take positive action. It is a great achievement to be able to rally around this positivity!” he exclaims.

Pelletier says the decision to leave was not easy, and he admits the importance of finding a replacement who would continue to move things forward and push for change weighed heavily on his mind. His worries disappeared once he convinced Saint-Anicet resident Marie Rachel Charlebois to apply for the job.

The pair had previously worked together on the CDC’s award-winning AgiRH program, and Charlebois says that despite having some very large shoes to fill, they felt like the right fit. “I have a strong attachment to the region. It was clear that I wanted to put my skills, abilities, and qualities into something that would benefit citizens and the community,” she explains, noting that while she plans to continue the spate of important work being done at the CDC, she is looking forward to adding her own colour to the palette.

“I’m really proud and happy,” she says, noting that while Pelletier’s departure was greeted with sadness, she has been very warmly received by the CDC staff, members, and partners.

A change in direction for the CDC du Haut-Saint-Laurent Read More »

Huntingdon promises sidewalk on busy strip is coming

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

Construction work has begun on the new Maxi grocery store in Huntingdon at the corner of François-Cleyn Street and Ridge Road. The Uniprix pharmacy just opened its doors in the new commercial buildings across the busy street. Traffic is increasing at the intersection, and that volume is expected to grow with the anticipated supermarket opening before the end of the year. The flow of cars has also ticked up, because the lack of a sidewalk means foot traffic is not safe.

Huntingdon has been requesting a sidewalk for the in-town section of Route 202 since 2021. The municipal council passed a resolution last October seeking a transfer of authority over the road from the Ministère des Transport et de la Mobilité Durable.

Huntingdon’s mayor, André Brunette, insists that the provincial cabinet, which makes decisions concerning the implementation of legislation and the administration and proper operation of the state, has agreed to transfer ownership to the town. He explained he was hoping to receive official notification from Transports Quebec in writing before the National Assembly broke for the summer. He confirms that as of now, no agreement has been signed.

“It’s still a provincial highway or road. The town does have plans to construct a sidewalk. It’s a must, and we will do it,” Brunette said, noting improved safety along this stretch of road is a priority.

The Transport Ministry has lowered the speed limit on Ridge Road (Route 202) when approaching the town from 70 kilometres per hour to 50. Brunette says two new stop signs will also be installed once construction on the Maxi is complete. The town is also considering the installation of a flashing light.

Brunette maintains that once the town has control over the road, work will begin to install a sidewalk leading to the medical centre, the childcare centre, and the Maxi.

Huntingdon promises sidewalk on busy strip is coming Read More »

Municipalities looking to work together to end illegal dumping

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

The municipality of Ormstown hosted a roundtable discussion with neighbouring municipalities, local organizations, and government officials on June 25 to address common concerns stemming from illegal construction-waste dumping and backfilling.

Headlines recently decried the Haut-Saint-Laurent as the “garbage dump of Quebec” after a series of investigative articles published in the Journal de Montreal. The articles reported on the results of a study by McGill University’s Leadership for the Ecozoic project that revealed the potential scale and impact of dumping within the Chateauguay River watershed.

The Ormstown meeting, which highlighted several disconnects between provincial legislation and municipalities’ ability to enforce it, followed the media reports as well as a press release issued by the municipality denouncing government inaction specifically on the part of the Ministère de l’Environnement, de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques, de la Faune et des Parcs. According to Ormstown officials, the situation described in the articles is real and alarming, but it extends much beyond the Montérégie-Ouest region.

Ormstown mayor Christine McAleer referred to the gathering as an exploratory meeting aimed at determining whether area municipalities and stakeholders can work together to find solutions to this common problem.

Those in the room included representatives from the Fédération de l’UPA de la Montérégie and the Haut-Saint-Laurent syndicate, members of the Ormstown administration and council, both municipal inspectors, representatives from the municipalities of Saint-Urbain, Sainte-Clotilde, Sainte-Martine, Franklin, the OBV SCABRIC, and Huntingdon MNA Carole Mallette.

Possible dump sites

As a starting point for discussions, masters student Alex DePani and McGill cartographer and Franklin resident Dan Garand of the Leadership for the Ecozoic network presented the results of their research.

Garand noted that citizens and municipalities began to sound the alarm over the number of trucks in the region in 2023. He and DePani began analyzing archived satellite images last winter to study the evolution of the rural landscape within the watershed and look for evidence of dumping or backfilling activity. They identified 284 potential sites of concern, including 16 documented sites where loads of construction material are known to have been illegally dumped. Groundwater contamination has also been recorded at one site on Route 201 in Franklin.

The pair allege that many of the remaining undocumented sites, including more than 70 in the Haut-Saint-Laurent, are “preoccupying,” and could be illegal dump sites.

Ways forward

Following the presentation, McAleer opened the floor to all participants. Several spoke about the absence of official sites that can legally receive construction waste, while questioning whether any such were easily accessible. Another possibility discussed was the creation of a common bylaw across municipalities, after a representative from Franklin noted a reduction in the number of trucks after the municipality passed stricter anti-dumping regulations. Some municipal representatives pointed out, however, that bylaws can lead to additional expenses and complications for small farms.

Sylvain Cazes, the political attaché for Mallette, cautioned that it was important to distinguish between illegal dumping and agricultural backfilling. “The problem is contaminated fill, and the people who do not care about the environment who are doing this for money,” he said. “That is the challenge, and it is something that can’t be handled by provincial or municipal governments alone.”

Cazes noted that provincial legislation came into force in 2024 as well as the traceability program, Traces Québec, which tracks and manages the movement of contaminated soil within the province. He suggested this could be used as a tool for municipalities to quickly identify whether a truck is carrying registered materials.

Some in the room questioned whether there were enough inspectors to ensure the legislation was being properly implemented. Others suggested more responsibility be delegated to municipalities and local inspectors, who are currently powerless to enforce provincial law. McAleer quickly interjected, pointing out that giving municipalities a greater capacity to act is a good idea, so long as the necessary funds to accomplish this are also made available.

The Ormstown mayor suggested that raising awareness was also important, noting this was one of the main goals behind the sensational headlines and media coverage. “We have to make people understand there is an emergency, and that we are all involved in this,” she said. “We need to send an urgent message about this issue that is becoming increasingly dramatic for municipalities in terms of drinking water.”

McAleer ended the meeting noting that the group had identified a few leads to start working on to ensure the issue of illegal dumping remains in the spotlight.

Municipalities looking to work together to end illegal dumping Read More »

Government demands could force nearly $5 million in cuts to the NFSB

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

“This is a desperate time for education in Quebec,” said the New Frontiers School Board council of commissioners chair, John Ryan, in a statement denouncing the provincial government’s plans to reduce funding to school boards and service centres by at least $510 million dollars.

According to consultative budget parameters received by the NFSB on June 12, the board’s share of this “negative adjustment” could be as high as $4.9 million. Administrators were given little more than a day to react and provide feedback to the government.

“We are expecting to receive the actual parameters towards the beginning of July, so we are hopeful that some adjustments have been taken into consideration, but we are looking at a significant reduction,” confirms the NFSB’s director general, Mike Helm.

When added to reductions imposed earlier this year – amounting to more than $510,000 – as well as a hiring freeze that has been in place since last November, these compressions could place the NFSB in an untenable position. “This goes beyond looking at little pockets,” said Helm, before noting the targeted amount represents over five per cent of the board’s overall budget. “At this point, it is going to impact our schools and centres.”

Helm confirmed that the government has forbidden boards and service centres from adopting a deficit budget or using accumulated surplus funds to balance their books. He pointed out that approximately 80 percent of the budget is allocated to human resources, while another five per cent or more is dedicated to transportation. There is little left in terms of flexibility.

The timing of the government’s announcement further complicates the situation. “We have already made plans and commitments for the next year, and those are contractual obligations,” said Ryan. “Our budget wasn’t extravagant. It was already severe because we were anticipating more reductions,” he insists.

“Having to cut in areas that are going to affect students is very difficult to swallow,” Ryan said. “This is going to affect them for life,” he added, before declaring it will take a lot of pushing for the board to go that far. “It is not what we are here for.”

Reductions, not cuts

In a statement issued June 26, Education Minister Bernard Drainville responded to growing public concern over budget cuts, pointing out the budget has increased by $1.1 billion to $23.5 billion.

“While the needs are endless, we cannot solve all problems with money alone. Record amounts have been invested over the past seven years, and now we must use them more effectively,” Drainville said.

At the request of the NFSB, Huntingdon MNA Carole Mallette and Chateauguay MNA Marie-Belle Gendron met with Helm, Ryan, and assistant director general Joyce Donohue on June 27. Following the meeting, Mallette said she and her colleague are waiting on the NFSB to provide them with more information and data so they can better understand their concerns.

“We will be sure to check with the ministry to ensure that the budget increase, as announced, will be fairly distributed,” Mallette explained, noting her office maintains a positive relationship with the NFSB.

Ryan acknowledged the meeting with the MNAs was positive but suggested it’s unclear whether the ministry and government officials fully understand how the impacts and effects of what they are asking could play out on the ground.

Growing public concern

A petition posted on the National Assembly website, sponsored by Parti Québécois MNA Pascal Bérubé, argues that the reduced spending targets will directly affect services to students, particularly those with special needs or learning difficulties. Support staff, including special education technicians and attendants, could see their positions reduced or eliminated. As of press time, well over 118,000 individuals had signed the document, which demands the government call off its restrictions so direct student services are not affected.

All the major unions representing teachers, support staff, education professionals, and administrators have come together to form the “Ensemble, unis pour l’école” (Together, United for Schools) coalition. Statements issued by the different unions refer to the cutbacks as alarming, while noting that important elements such as extracurricular and cultural activities, books, and various support and training measures could be threatened.

“The rope is just not long enough,” concluded Ryan, who has appealed to the NFSB community for support. “If these budget reductions remain in place, your children – our students – will indeed suffer,” he said.

Government demands could force nearly $5 million in cuts to the NFSB Read More »

JAG strives for municipalities to become more queer-educated

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , , ,

Callan Forrester – LJI reporter

JAG is an organization based in the Montégérie that offers resources to queer and trans people, as well as educational resources for people who want to be more informed about the 2SLGBTQIA+ (Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual, plus) community. For this Pride month, they have a few new developments to share and activities to celebrate.

To kick off Pride month, JAG hosted a gala to celebrate the accomplishments they’ve had this year. This is a tradition that has been going on for many years and is now in its third edition post-pandemic. “It’s an environment where we can get together with our members and talk about what we did throughout the year in a way that’s fun, with the anticipation of Pride,” says JAG’s general director, Dominique Thibert.

This year’s gala took place on May 30, and it had a full house, with about 100 attendees at Pointe-Valaine Cultural Centre. The event was pay-what-you-can, as a way to make it accessible to anyone who wanted to be there. Thibert stresses that this kind of accessibility is a big part of JAG’s mandate. They want their spaces to be as inclusive and accessible as possible. The AGM took place on June 17 and was open for anyone who registered to attend.

“With the rise in hate, there are a lot of people experiencing physiological distress … they need to be with their people and talk in our groups to break social isolation,” says Thibert. He himself grew up in the Montérégie, and shares that he went to great lengths to find his community while growing up. “I would walk on foot from Saint Hubert to Montreal to go to meet-ups with the community of LGBT people aged 25 years old and younger … If I had had that here, it would have been exceptional and would have hugely changed my life.”

JAG offers all kinds of resources for the community, such as courses and reading resources online, and posts on their social media that break down different queer issues in a digestible way. Their website, lejag.org, has a calendar for tracking available resources each month.

Organizations like JAG are important now more than ever. “All of the problems that were happening before this rise in hate are still there. People are still searching for their identities; they need answers to their questions about having a diverse sexuality,” Thibert explains. The problem is that now they are also doing damage control to fight some of the rhetoric surrounding queer issues. “We’re doing what we’ve always done, but now we’re also fighting the misinformation that’s in the community.” He also stresses that it would be great if the government admitted the need for more services for queer and trans people.

One of the projects that JAG is working on at the moment involves a service to encourage municipalities “to focus on the importance of having inclusive spaces.” The service will be a way for elected officials to better understand the needs of queer and trans people in their communities. “Municipalities are the closest thing to the population; it’s they that are able to put measures in place against the violence that queer people could experience,” Thibert explains. It’s a big project and will work collaboratively so that the municipalities have support from JAG and the tools to make safer spaces in the region at a governmental level.

For any young queer people who are currently struggling, Thibert reminds them to “Take care of yourself before anything. Know your limits.” Sometimes it can feel overwhelming, but if someone has the capacity, he encourages them to “Go look for resources. There are groups on Facebook that are exceptional for the discovery of self. Get in touch with JAG, join a group discussion, go find people like you to create a bubble that will help protect you from the hate that’s out there.” Finding a community of similar people is the key to protecting yourself.

JAG strives for municipalities to become more queer-educated Read More »

CVR recognizes International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

Callan Forrester – LJI reporter

May 17 is International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia. This is a day to recognize the violence and oppression that the queer and trans communities are still facing, to learn how to be a better ally, and to celebrate queer identities. This year, Chateauguay Valley Regional High School (CVR) made a point to highlight the day.

CVR has had a Pride group in the past; however, this year there were not enough students that signed up to have an active group all year. That being said, they were still able to organize a day of activities and education in honour of IDAHBT. Pamela Bussey, one of the club teachers, explains that they will try to get it going again next year “a little later in the fall, once kids have settled into friend groups.”

When it comes to having a queer pride club at CVR (which is for both LGBTQ+ students and allies), the response from students varies. For example, Bussey explains that “The energy during the trivia game was great! There were definitely kids there who are LGBTQ+ but also lots of kids who aren’t, and everyone enjoyed the game and took part. It was lovely to see very straight-identifying middle-schoolers taking part.” She sees a spectrum of responses when going classroom to classroom to advertise the club at the beginning of the year. This year, she did this with Fraser McClintock, who helped spread the word. She says that it makes a huge impact “to have a very well-liked and respected man there, who is not LGBTQ+, sending the signal that a Pride group is fine and normal and open to everyone – he made a point to stress that.”

For Bussey, now more than ever it is important for schools to have these kinds of clubs, “especially in light of all of the anti-trans rhetoric online, and movements both in the U.S. and Canada to restrict Trans people’s access to public spaces and sports,” she says. She explains that a lot of bigotry comes from a lack of understanding, adding, “Like so many other schools, CVR has some students who will use openly homophobic and transphobic language. This is almost always due to a lack of knowledge of LGBTQ+ people and a general discomfort with what we don’t know.” Having this club helps to normalize queer and trans identities and perspectives. It helps to open the discussion up so everyone can become more educated. “We are sending the message that all students, staff, and community members are important and welcome,” she says.

CVR recognizes International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia Read More »

Rabies confirmed in a bat in Godmanchester

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

A case of bat rabies has been confirmed in Godmanchester.

A client called the Ormstown Veterinary Hospital (OVH) to report having found a sick bat on their property in Godmanchester during the first week of June. Concerned their cat may have been in contact with the bat, the owners brought their pet to the OVH for a rabies vaccination booster. After the veterinary hospital communicated with the Ministère de l’Agriculture, des Pêcheries et de l’Alimentation (MAPAQ), the bat, which had since died, was safely collected and sent to a laboratory in Ottawa for testing.

Dr Judith Léger and animal health technician Bianca Gregory handled the case. They confirmed that a positive result for rabies was returned from the laboratory within a day. Both report it has been a long time since they have seen a case of rabies in the area.

There have been 28 cases identified this year in the Montérégie and Estrie regions in the racoon population, but none so far in the Haut-Saint-Laurent area. “It is well known that with racoons and other wildlife, rabies comes in waves. There are little epidemics,” said Léger, noting these tend to occur in seven- or eight-year cycles. “But bats are always considered carriers of rabies, even when there isn’t a wave,” she explained.

According to the MAPAQ, bats are classified separately from other animals who may be susceptible to rabies. Bat rabies is the most common variant in Quebec and is present in all regions and in all bat species. “They are automatically considered rabid,” said Gregory, noting how important it is that the population take precautions when it comes to bats.

Gregory explained that in the event someone comes across a weak, sick, or dead bat, the first step is to contact the MAPAQ for detailed instructions. “You can’t bring a dead wild animal to the vet,” she said, noting the government agency may suggest that a veterinarian become involved if a pet has been in contact with a wild animal.

With rabies on the rise in neighbouring regions, Gregory said vaccination is becoming even more important. In the current case, the cat’s vaccinations were up to date, and all that was required was a booster.

The protocol for an unvaccinated animal that is potentially exposed to rabies is quite different as a series of vaccinations are required. “This means a much higher cost for the client and a much higher potential for rabies infection,” she explained, noting an unvaccinated pet exposed to rabies must also be kept in quarantine with no human contact for at least 45 days.

The OVH recommends that people avoid handling wild animals, especially racoons, bats, skunks, and foxes. Contact a veterinarian immediately if a pet has been in contact with a wild animal and watch for symptoms of rabies such as sudden behavior changes, excessive drooling, difficulty swallowing, paralysis or staggering, and aggression or unusual tameness in wild animals.

Any suspected sightings or contact with a wild animal that may have rabies should be reported to the MAPAQ by calling 1-877-346-6763.

Rabies confirmed in a bat in Godmanchester Read More »

New watercraft will tour national wildlife area

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

The Association des Membres et Amis pour la Protection de la Réserve Nationale de Faune du Lac Saint-François (AMAPRE) launched its new electric pontoon boat on June 6.

The boat, dubbed the Maraiscalibur, will serve a double function for the non-profit that manages the national wildlife area in Dundee. It will help to clean and maintain the waterways through the reserve, while providing a new service to individuals with reduced mobility who would like to experience the area from the water.

The Ministère des Affaires Municipals et de l’Habitation and the MRC du Haut-Saint-Laurent contributed $50,830 to the initiative as part of the revitalization and intermunicipal cooperation component of the Fonds Regions et Ruralité program.

The AMAPRE contributed an additional $11,600 to ensure the fully electric craft was self-sufficient, as there is no electricity at the end of the dock where the pontoon is moored. Director Karina LeClair pointed out that the boat is equipped with five batteries and two solar panels. It took 17 months and a lot of experimenting to configure the boat to allow solar energy to charge the backup batteries as well as the main battery used to power the motor.

During the brief ceremony, Leclair said she has always wanted to do something to encourage visitors with reduced mobility to enjoy the reserve, noting she found it sad that some visitors were left to wait at the interpretation centre while others were able to experience the entire site.

Simon Thibert, the site’s interpretation activities coordinator, is the only team member certified to operate the small commercial vessel. He explained that much of his training has since been adapted to working in a highly protected marsh with an all-electric boat. The pontoon, while increasing the site’s tourism potential, will also be used by the team to help manage and remove invasive aquatic plant species.

Visitors with reduced mobility, or those who are unable to use the site’s canoe, rabaska, or sea kayaks, can reserve a tour by pontoon throughout the summer until October 15. There is a two-person minimum and four-person maximum for the pontoon experience, which must be booked at least three days in advance.

New watercraft will tour national wildlife area Read More »

Shift work to end for Huntingdon paramedics

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

The era of on-call shift work for Huntingdon paramedics has come to an end.

The provincial government announced in May that $2,292,696 in additional funding will be made available to strengthen ambulance coverage and pre-hospital emergency services in the Montérégie region.

The improvements to ambulance services will include the conversion of 8,760 hours of on-call shift work to scheduled 24-hour service, seven days a week, in Huntingdon. This measure will also add 2,281 hours of service in the Sorel area, as well as 2,920 hours in Granby, and 1,044 hours in Cowansville.

Huntingdon paramedics, who are currently expected to be on call 24 hours a day for seven consecutive days, have long been asking for set hourly schedules. Huntingdon paramedics serve the town as well as the western territory of the Haut-Saint-Laurent including Godmanchester, Hinchinbrooke, Elgin, Sainte-Barbe, Saint-Anicet and Dundee. They have argued that the current shift system places residents at risk of longer wait times or delays for ambulance services.

On-call work, which was introduced as a temporary solution in the 1980s, was previously abolished for all Montérégie posts except for Huntingdon. According to the provincial government, the change to regular schedules will take place this year.

“This improvement in pre-hospital emergency services in Quebec’s regions demonstrates that we are continuing to invest heavily to enhance these services where significant needs have been identified,” said Health Minister Christian Dubé. “We are ensuring that we optimize the services provided to make them even more efficient and accessible in a shorter timeframe,” he added, before insisting the government prioritizes Quebecers having the best possible ambulance coverage, regardless of where they live.

The ambulance coverage assessment process, implemented in June 2022, is based on a neutral and annualized approach which allows the government to respond equitably to different population needs. Based on ministerial guidelines for ambulance service, the process serves as a framework for regional institutions to analyze their current coverage and evaluate any requests for schedule changes or additional hours of service, to ensure staffing and resources meet the needs of the population.

Huntingdon MNA Carole Mallette said she was pleased that better ambulance coverage will be implemented in certain parts of the region, and particularly in the Huntingdon area. “These adjustments will improve service accessibility and reduce response times for users,” she said, while pointing out that the elimination of shift schedules will also make it easier to attract more paramedics to the region.

Shift work to end for Huntingdon paramedics Read More »

UAF provides essential services despite funding difficulties

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

The Ormstown-based community organization Une Affaire de Famille has been a key player in keeping the Haut-Saint-Laurent’s social fabric tightly woven for over 30 years. The forward-looking organization, which runs several essential programs, is currently facing a difficult outlook as government grants and municipal support have run dry.

“Luckily, some municipalities have pulled out all the stops to support us as best they can,” says Une Affaire de Famille director Gabrielle Limoges, who suggests many within the region recognize the value of the organization’s work. 

 “Our mission is broad,” she admits. “The advantage is that it allows us to really meet the needs of every member of the family, but that requires a variety of programs and a large team,” she explains, noting the organization currently has 16 full-time employees on staff who travel throughout the Haut-Saint-Laurent to run various programs.

The organization runs several family-oriented workshops and support programs for parents of babies and young children, as well as parent-child initiatives, and two reservation-based daycare services in Ormstown and Saint-Anicet. A youth team coordinates events and activities targeted at young adults between the ages of 12 and 24 years old. Finally, a seniors team organizes activities for those above the age of 50. The programs are all aimed at specific age groups, but UAF activities always work across generations.

“Everyone is always welcome,” says Limoges. “Our goal is to create a social network around each individual in our community,” she explains, suggesting her teams work to break down commonly held perceptions that community organizations are only for people with big problems or financial difficulties. “That’s not the case here,” she says, while acknowledging that they ensure all programs are accessible to vulnerable clients. “It is open to everyone, and we sincerely believe this is what makes our organization so rich, because we bring people with many different backgrounds together.”

Challenging times

Most of the programs run by UAF are funded by external grants or programs. The core operational budget hovers around $176,000, which Limoges says is clearly not enough to pay her staff. Most of her employees have been with the organization for over ten years. “They are trained and qualified, so we try to offer competitive salaries,” she explains, insisting that while community work pays less than other fields, she strives to set an example.

“One of our strengths is really a sense of belonging,” Limoges says, noting team members are often offered jobs in schools and health care settings. “We stick together, we have fun, and we help each other. It is worth a lot in terms of quality of life, but it comes with a cost,” she laments.

Limoges estimates she has completed at least 38 funding applications for one-off projects this year alone to keep her programs running. Current economic uncertainty, paired with the recent federal election and upcoming municipal elections, has meant fewer grants were available this year. “We are dependent on all of these,” she says, noting the situation is beyond her control. “Right now, our reality is that we have a deficit of $65,000,” she states, saying the grants are not coming in, and they have lost significant financial support from the municipality in which they are located.

The shortfall has meant at least one position will not be renewed next year, and a vacant post will not be filled. “We are used to scraping the bottom of the barrel,” says Limoges, who shares that the organization is currently keeping programs alive by shifting funds from management budgets that would normally pay for insurance, professional fees, and utilities.

“There is a limit to what we can do,” she says. “It is not easy, and it makes everyone feel insecure.” She says she wants to be transparent about the situation but does not want employees or clients to worry that programs may be discontinued.

UAF traditionally pauses its operations over the summer, with activities scheduled to end this year around June 15. Limoges says she and the management team are working to ensure their staff can enjoy the break knowing their position is secure come September.

In the meantime, Une Affaire de Famille is hoping to raise $20,000 in the short term. Two fundraising events are scheduled for June 7, including a day of music at Gigzz Musique-Resto in Ormstown featuring local musicians Pierre Lachance and Guy David, Dave Hills and Bob Davis, Dan McKell, and Barkhouse. UAF will also be present during the community garage sales at the ecocentre in Sainte-Barbe, where they will be selling hotdogs, beverages, and snacks to help ensure their important work continues this fall.

Donations can also be made directly to the organization online at uneaffairedefamillehsl.com. 

UAF provides essential services despite funding difficulties Read More »

Queer realities in Canada in 2025

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , , ,

Callan Forrester – LJI reporter

There are laws in place in Canada that protect the rights of 2SLGBTQIA+ (Two-Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual) people, including the Canadian Human Rights Act (CHRA), which was amended in 1996 to prohibit discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation; Bill C-38, which legalizes gay marriage; and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, which guarantees equality of rights for everyone.

That being said, there are still massive amounts of hate and discrimination that queer and trans people face in Canada. Statistics Canada reported a 69-per cent increase in hate crimes towards people based on their sexual orientation from 2022 to 2023. On top of this, eagle.ca (an organization that fights for equality for queer people) says that “from 2016-2023, police-reported hate crimes motivated by sexual orientation have increased a staggering 388 per cent.”

The numbers have risen so dramatically that even the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) has made a statement about it. In February 2024, CSIS spokesperson Eric Balsam said in an email to CBC News that “CSIS assesses that the violent threat posed by the anti-gender movement is almost certain to continue over the coming year, and that violent actors may be inspired by the University of Waterloo attack to carry out their own extreme violence against the 2SLGBTQI+ community or against other targets they view as representing the gender ideology ‘agenda’.” This was in response to the June 2023 stabbing of multiple people in a University of Waterloo gender studies class by a former student. Balsam goes on to say, “CSIS assesses that exposure to groups and individuals espousing anti-gender extremist rhetoric could inspire and encourage serious violence against the 2SLGBTQI+ community, or against those who are viewed as supporters of pro-gender ideology policies and events.”

Very recently, there have also been book bans proposed in schools in Alberta for containing “inappropriate content.” Three out of four of the publications in question have queer themes and are being banned for being age-inappropriate, even though they were written as coming-of-age stories.

2025 election

During the 2025 federal election, topics regarding the queer and trans community were hardly mentioned, which was surprising considering how much of a talking point they were during the 2024 U.S. election. However, many queer voters were alarmed with Pierre Poilievre’s stance that minors should not have access to hormone blockers. Hormone blockers are gender-affirming medications that are widely regarded as safe for trans kids (and even some cis kids) to take, and are reversible in the event that someone decides to de-transition.

Poilievre also has a history of voting against queer rights, and specifically against gay marriage, even though his adoptive father is gay. That being said, he was on record this election saying he would not rescind gay marriage if he was prime minister.

In Quebec

Looking a little closer to home, there has been some controversy with the official Fierté Montreal this year. In response to the city’s mainstream programming, a new event – Wild Pride – will be its own, more inclusive festival. The reasoning behind this new festival is due to accusations that Fierté Montreal has a history of being racist and sexist.

Earlier this year, ten community groups signed a letter to Fierté Montreal cutting ties in response to its appearance of valuing of corporate sponsorships over community organizations. Yara Coussa, a board member for Helem (a Lebanese queer organization) expressed in a recent Montreal Gazette article that Fierté has become too corporate and they feel frustrated by its affiliation with companies that support Israel. Ray Traboulsi of Sapphix, a lesbian event-planning organization, also mentions frustration with Fierté’s willingness to allow pro-Israel groups in the parade.

In response, Fierté executive director Simon Gamache said that Pride is expensive, that they need corporate sponsorships, and added that they only work with organizations that support the queer community and avoid any companies blacklisted by the United Nations.

Gamache hosted a Zoom meeting on May 20 to speak with members of the community; however, Coussa and Traboulsi did not feel like their concerns were heard. Gamache said he felt as though certain attendees took up too much of the floor and wished for more unity between organizations. That being said, he did say, “We need more alternative queer scenes,” and said that Wild Pride is a good idea.

Coussa saw a huge outpouring of support for Wild Pride when the plans were announced and said, “We really want to do a ‘Fierté’ that’s for everyone. Not just a party.” The focus will be on diversity and inclusion, and will feature events like “workshops, tea times, drag story time, and parties.”

Queer realities in Canada in 2025 Read More »

Pesticides in Chateauguay River remain in drinking water: study

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

The Société de Conservation et d’Aménagement du Bassin de la Rivière Châteauguay (SCABRIC) held a conference prior to its annual general meeting, in order to unpack recent research that reveals pesticide levels persist in treated municipal drinking water drawn from the Chateauguay River.

Sébastien Sauvé, a Université de Montréal environmental chemistry professor and lead author on the study, presented his findings to a crowded room in Sainte-Martine on May 29. His work, which was published in the June edition of the scientific journal, Water Research, found that over 50 different kinds of pesticides and metabolites, which are transformation products that result from the breakdown of pesticides, remain in tap water even after it has been processed at a water treatment plant.

Sauvé has been focusing his research on the Montérégie Ouest for several years because of the intensive agricultural activity that takes place along waterways, including the Chateauguay River. His previous work established that pesticides such as glyphosate and neonic are present in the region’s surface waters. This new study aimed to determine the temporal trends of pesticide concentrations in the surface water, and the associated health risks of human exposure from drinking water.

Over 838 days between 2021 and 2023, Sauvé and his team collected water samples twice a week from the Chateauguay River near where its waters were being pumped into a treatment facility. The samples were then compared with ones taken from the water as it was leaving the plant to be consumed as drinking water.

Researchers found that peak concentration for pesticides occurred in June and July, and that some transformation products were found in higher concentrations than their parent compounds in the surface water. Sauvé noted that while most pesticides remained in the treated water, up to 11 pesticides and one transformation product showed higher levels in drinking water than the raw sample. He attributed this to some compounds transforming during the treatment process that allowed them to become measurable.

“Roughly speaking, there was no difference in terms of pesticides in the water before and after treatment,” said Sauvé, who explained this does not mean the water treatment facilities are not working properly; they are just designed to remove bacteria.

Sauvé pointed out that his was the first study to investigate the health risks of parent pesticides and their transformation products in drinking water by using long-term sampling. His research argues for the regulation of acceptable levels of metabolites in drinking water, and the need to integrate more advanced treatment technologies into water treatment plants.

“There are a number of parameters that are well measured and well controlled,” Sauvé said, noting that there are specific Quebec standards for pesticides. “When we compare ourselves with the toxicity thresholds that are recognized and used in Quebec, we are not in a risk zone,” he confirmed.

“However, these are all individual risk levels. In toxicology, we know there are multiplier effects when we are exposed to several toxic elements at the same time,” he cautioned, noting they are not presently able to calculate or estimate these effects.

Pesticides in Chateauguay River remain in drinking water: study Read More »

Nathalie Provost is elected in Châteauguay – Les Jardins-de-Napierville

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

After a fast-paced campaign and a long election night, voters in the Châteauguay – Les Jardins-de-Napierville riding have sent first-time Liberal candidate Nathalie Provost to Ottawa.

According to preliminary results issued by Elections Canada, Provost won the riding with 27,960 votes, or 45.1 per cent of the total vote. Bloc Québécois candidate Patrick O’Hara received 18,022 votes, representing 29.1 per cent of the total vote, while Conservative candidate David De Repentigny garnered the support of 13,471 voters, for 21.7 per cent of the total vote. Hannah Walker of the New Democratic Party received 1,337 votes (2.2 per cent), while Martine Desrochers of the Green Party of Canada had 765 votes (1.2 per cent), and Nicolas Guerin received 426 votes (0.7 per cent).

Of the 91,519 eligible voters in the Châteauguay – Les Jardins-de-Napierville riding, at least 61,981 individuals cast a ballot at one of 256 polls, for a voter turnout of 67.72 per cent.

Provost was gathered with her team and volunteers at her campaign headquarters in Chateauguay on Monday evening to watch as results trickled in after polls closed. Following a late night during which the Liberal Party of Canada was projected to win the election, Provost said on Tuesday morning that she is excited and honoured. “I’m now realizing more and more that I am an MP. I am very proud, but I can feel the weight of the responsibility,” she added.

Provost said the 37-day campaign felt like a five-kilometre run. “It was much too long to run it as a sprint, but you cannot pace yourself like in a marathon,” she explained, admitting that as a first-time candidate she was met with a stiff learning curve.

She says she felt the support of the Liberal Party during her campaign. She points out that several Liberal MPs and cabinet ministers visited the riding, including Mélanie Joly, Rachel Bendayan, François-Philippe Champagne, and Dominic LeBlanc. “They taught me how to go knocking door-to-door,” she said, with a laugh. “It was really fun to learn with them,” she continued, comparing her time with fellow Liberal candidates, and especially Champagne, to a master class in campaigning.

Provost was not the only notable first-time candidate on the Liberal slate, as Prime Minister Mark Carney was also learning to campaign on the fly. Carney and the Liberals secured a fourth term with around 43.5 per cent of the total vote across the country. At the time of publication, there were still several ridings that were considered too close to call, and Elections Canada had yet to confirm whether the Liberals had won a minority or majority government.

Uncertainty aside, Provost said she was privileged to represent the riding, and had particularly enjoyed watching the spring season arrive across the territory. “It is so beautiful, and people are proud of their land. They cherish it. It’s their wealth,” she explained, noting she shares this sense of pride, having come from an agricultural area as well.

Provost thanked her team for their hard work throughout the campaign. She was also very careful to mention former Liberal MP Brenda Shanahan, who served the Châteauguay-Lacolle riding over three terms. “I wouldn’t be here if she had not shaken hands with me and given me that beginning impulse. Even in the last days, people were telling me about the great job that she did in Chateauguay and the surrounding area,” she explained. “This was the strongest foundation for a campaign,” she added.

Now Provost is hoping to continue in Shanahan’s footsteps. She said a priority over the summer will be to ensure that she fully understands all she was hearing from voters during the campaign. “I want to go back to see people, to have discussions with people in order to understand their needs, their issues, and to make sure that my priorities are representative of their priorities.”

Provost said that along with representing the people of Châteauguay – Les Jardins-de-Napierville, she wants to improve the way the federal and provincial governments work together. Pointing out that she has worked as a Quebec civil servant within the provincial government, she said there are too many examples of inefficiencies between it and the federal level. “We are all working together for our citizens, so it must be more efficient than it is right now,” she concludes.

Nathalie Provost is elected in Châteauguay – Les Jardins-de-Napierville Read More »

A fifth term for Bloc Québécois stalwart Claude DeBellefeuille

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

Voters in the Beauharnois-Salaberry-Soulanges-Huntingdon riding have voted to return longtime Bloc Québécois representative Claude DeBellefeuille to Ottawa for a fifth term.

Despite early numbers favouring the Liberal contender, Miguel Perras, the tally soon turned in DeBellefeuille’s favour and she handily retained the riding with at least 29,793 votes, or 43.9 per cent of the total ballots cast.

According to preliminary results reported by Elections Canada, Liberal Party candidate Perras finished with 21,791 votes or 32.1 per cent of the total vote, while Conservative candidate Priska St-Pierre received 13,096 votes or 19.3 per cent of the ballots cast. Tyler Jones of the New Democratic Party had the support of 1,637 voters for 2.4 per cent of the total vote, while Green Party candidate Kevin Solarik received 847 votes (1.2 per cent), and the People’s Party of Canada representative Martin Lévesque finished with 671 votes (1.0 per cent).

Of the 103,252 eligible voters in the Beauharnois-Salaberry-Soulanges-Huntingdon riding, at least 67,835 individuals exercised their right to vote at one of the 288 polls for a turnout of 65.7 per cent. Voter turnout was over three per cent higher than during the 2021 election, when DeBellefeuille was elected with over 47.8 per cent of the total vote. Nearly 27,000 individuals, or around a quarter of the total number of eligible voters, cast their ballots during the advance polling period over the long Easter weekend.

DeBellefeuille was surrounded by supporters Monday evening for a rally at La Baraque in Salaberry-de-Valleyfield. Elections Canada called the riding shortly after 11 p.m., and DeBellefeuille addressed the room soon after.

“Especially during this particular election campaign, the people of Beauharnois-Salaberry-Soulanges-Huntingdon understood that the Bloc was still the right party to represent them in Ottawa,” she declared, while thanking her family for their support and patience and acknowledging the other riding candidates.

The following morning, DeBellefeuille said she was tired but had no intention of taking a break. She joined her team and volunteers for what has become a post-election tradition to clear out their campaign headquarters. “I’m still excited,” she said following her election win. She explained that after having lost twice during wave elections, she never let her guard down. “I didn’t want to think it was a sure thing. I worked 37 days on the campaign trail with my team.”

DeBellefeuille said that despite the uncertainty surrounding a possible Liberal wave sweeping the riding, there was no shortage of support. “This was the election where I received the most love and affection, where people were generous and came up to me,” she added, noting she is very happy with the result.

The Bloc Québécois stalwart said she was especially grateful to voters for trusting her with a fifth term, though she mentioned she has never been elected during a majority government. “That’s the story of my life,” she laughed, before adding that she likes action and expects her party will serve as the balance of power.

Across the country, the Bloc Québécois received 6.3 per cent of the total vote, and Elections Canada is projecting that a diminished team of 22 MPs will return to Ottawa. While perhaps not the election night the party was hoping for, the results are more positive than those of the New Democratic Party, which was reduced to one seat in Quebec and an additional six across the country, which is not enough to maintain its official party status.

DeBellefeuille said that as a result, the Bloc Québécois “will have a lot of bills on our shoulders.” She explained that whether the party allies itself with the Liberals or the Conservatives, “It is going to be an interesting game for us.”

DeBellefeuille was part of the Bloc Québécois shadow cabinet as public safety critic at the time the election was called. She said these positions will likely be confirmed during a caucus meeting in the coming weeks, and while nothing has been confirmed, she says she would like to stay on in her role.

The MP said she is especially pleased that her team continued to serve the constituents in the riding throughout the campaign. “Our office did not close, except on election day,” she confirmed. “This makes me very proud because it reflects who we are. We are hard-working people who work for our community,” she declared.

DeBellefeuille says this conviction carried over into the campaign. “We had an incredible team of dedicated volunteers who were always in a good mood. I told myself that for my seventh election, I wanted it to be fun. And that is exactly what happened,” she said.

As of Tuesday morning, the deputy was already back at work with appearances scheduled for the next few weeks. “I have just been re-elected; I don’t have time to take time off,” she laughed, before suggesting she may take a little time to recover later on, but certainly not during the immediate aftermath of this consequential election.

A fifth term for Bloc Québécois stalwart Claude DeBellefeuille Read More »

UPA federation demands Quebec drop carbon pricing for farmers

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

The Fédération de l’UPA de la Montérégie has launched a campaign against the province’s carbon trading system, saying the policy is hurting the agricultural sector. Dozens of producers gathered in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu on May 1 to denounce the government’s current cap-and-trade emissions pricing system, the Système de Plafonnement et d’Échange des Droits d’Émission, which is commonly referred to as SPEDE.

Quebec is now the only province to tax carbon following the federal government’s recent decision to remove the consumer carbon price. The system is designed to reduce the province’s carbon footprint by requiring that large emitters such as fossil fuel distributors pay to pollute; however, this cost is often transferred directly to consumers at the time of sale.

“If all provinces and economic sectors participated fairly in this effort, this system would have real potential to change our practices in a structured and sustainable way, but this is not the case,” said Jérémy Letellier, president of the Montérégie UPA. He argued that as no viable alternatives exist to replace fossil fuels within the agriculture sector, the SPEDE unfairly penalizes producers who are already facing a very difficult economic situation.

The UPA acknowledged the greenhouse gas cap and trade system is not exactly a tax, and as a result it may be more difficult for the government to dismantle. “It is time to recognize that despite its administrative and legal complexity, the damage it causes fully justifies a serious review – or even the complete withdrawal of the system as it is currently being applied,” said Letellier.

“We are not asking for a free pass. We are just asking that our realities be taken into account,” added Letellier, noting the farming community is aware of the climate emergency. “We are already seeing the effects of climate change on our crops, our working conditions, and our livelihoods,” he continued, insisting that farmers have been at the forefront for years in searching for solutions to reduce the sector’s carbon footprint.

Quebec farmers are technically exempt from the provincial cap-and-trade system; however, they contribute to the Fonds d’Électrification et de Changements Climatiques in the form of costs billed by fossil fuel distributors. Sylvain Pilon, the president of the Producteurs de Grains du Québec, pointed out that over the last decade producers have contributed over $480 million to the electrification and climate change fund, which is fed by the money collected through SPEDE.

“We are not opposed to the idea of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. But for the system to work, it must be fair, consistent, effective, and equitable. It is not up to our farms to pay for a system that does not work,” said David Phaneuf, an administrator representing the Producteurs d’Oeufs d’Incubation with the Federation. He estimated he loses around $25,000 per year in direct costs for propane, natural gas, and fuel to run his farm. He suggested the the average chicken farm pays around $4,150 to the electrification and climate change fund.

Phaneuf argued that farmers are always being challenged to become more competitive. “I feel like the coach is telling me to go out and play, but to leave my stick in the locker room,” he explained, saying these transferred costs represent net losses that are not recoverable.

Haut-Saint-Laurent producer Alain Primeau, who was present for the campaign launch, said the situation has reached a point where it no longer makes any sense. “We are being charged for fuels that are essential in agriculture. It prevents us from being more competitive, more efficient, and we can’t invest,” he explained, noting the additional charges cost him around $5,000 per year. “Even though we respect the environment, it is a roadblock,” he stated.

The UPA’s general president, Martin Caron, pointed out that while Quebec farmers are leaders in terms of their environmental efforts, they are shouldering too much. “Now, this injustice, where we pay these additional costs while not being able to pass them on, must stop. And it can’t stop in six months or a year. It has to stop now!” he exclaimed.

UPA federation demands Quebec drop carbon pricing for farmers Read More »

CVR’s Breakfast Club receives the gift of a new fridge

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , , , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

The Breakfast Club at Chateauguay Valley Regional High School (CVR) regularly serves 140 students a day, and that number is expected to climb by next year.

Faced with the increasing demand, the group of students in the Work Oriented Training Program (WOTP) who manage the club realized that another fridge was necessary. Lorelei Muller, the school’s community development agent, reached out to the Breakfast Club of Canada (BCC), which agreed to provide a new fridge and to cover a significant portion of the associated costs.

Serendipitously, the Carrefour Jeunesse-Emploi Huntingdon reached out to the Ormstown-based high school soon after to offer support for the Breakfast Club. The organization agreed to donate $500, while Huntingdon MNA Carole Mallette chipped in an additional $500 to cover the remaining cost.

The new fridge was unveiled on April 28. Principal Lynn Harkness thanked all those involved in the initiative as well as the students who work to ensure the school community starts each day with a healthy breakfast.

Amanda Imbriglio, a program coordinator for BCC, was pleased to help. “We support schools with food deliveries or with financial support,” she explained, noting that her organization works with the Complices Alimentaires to provide breakfast foods at CVR.

“It’s full service,” Imbriglio added, noting that BCC not only provides food and equipment, but aprons and other sanitary and hygiene items along with all the necessary permits and training.

Volunteer WOTP students have been involved with the breakfast program for around 10 years. Student William Bryson said the new fridge will make things easier as the current fridges are often overfilled.

“There will be less stress,” added student Christopher Paulin, who enjoys being part of the program. “It is a good thing CVR is doing,” he added.

CVR’s Breakfast Club receives the gift of a new fridge Read More »

CVR is ahead of the curve with cellphone ban

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

As part of a series of measures to reinforce safe and respectful school environments, Quebec Education Minister Bernard Drainville announced a complete ban on cellphones on school grounds that will come into effect at the start of the new school year.

Starting in September, the use of cell phones, headphones, and personal mobile devices will be prohibited from the start to the end of the school day, including during breaks and lunch hour. This follows restrictions on cell phones in the classroom that were imposed in January 2024.

Drainville made the announcement during a May 1 press conference, saying the decision stemmed from recommendations included in an interim report by a special commission on the impact of screens and social media.

“We know that cell phones are too often used to mock, provoke, or intimidate others. By banning them from school during the entire school day, we are addressing the root cause of many conflicts and, ultimately, allowing students to socialize better with each other,” he said.

There will be some exceptions to the ban for educational purposes, health reasons, or special needs. Drainville explained that it will be up to each school to decide how best to implement this change, while noting about 400 institutions have already moved to restrict cell phone use on school property across the province.

Chateauguay Valley Regional High School (CVR) is among those schools to have already enacted a cellphone ban on campus. The CVR staff and administration went cellphone-free at the start of the current school year and never looked back.

“Our whole message was to disconnect to reconnect,” said principal Lynn Harkness, who referred to the decision as a “100-per cent-plus success.”

Harkness said the impact is clearly visible. “Kids are talking to each other. Kids are interacting; they are looking at each other,” she explained, noting there are more students enjoying the outdoors or participating in school activities during breaks.

Harkness acknowledged that while some of the challenges with social media and cyber-bullying remain, they are much less present within the school. “The pressure has been lifted,” she said, while admitting she is still pleasantly surprised by how well the students have complied.

“It’s not like we are hiding behind corners to catch people like vigilantes,” Harkness said with a laugh, before suggesting that out of a student population over 700, less than 50 students have had their phones confiscated.

Harkness credits her staff, saying the decision to go cellphone-free came from wanting kids to get back to learning. The province-wide ban just reinforces that CVR was already on the right track.

CVR is ahead of the curve with cellphone ban Read More »

Phase one of new housing project is underway in Saint-Anicet

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

The Club de Golf Saint-Anicet will soon be welcoming more than golfers, as construction is now underway on the Domaine Port-Lewis residential project just steps away from the green. 

The housing development, which features custom-designed single-family homes on large lots, was officially launched on April 25 at the golf club. Developers Marc Faubert, Patrice Bougie, Naim Baksh, and George Maziotis were all present at the launch, as were real-estate partners Judy Pomminville and her team, and representatives from Elli Construction and the Caisse Desjardins du Haut-Saint-Laurent.  

Also present were Sainte-Barbe mayor and MRC du Haut-Saint-Laurent prefect Louise Lebrun, Saint-Anicet mayor Gino Moretti, and several municipal councilors. 

Faubert and Pomminville presented the project, which will see at least 126 lots developed over three phases at the golf course.  

“We understand that in the regions, we do things differently,” said Faubert, who emphasized the importance of harmoniously integrating the development within the surrounding area and the natural environment. “I think this project is unique,” he added, noting their decision to offer large 30,000-square-foot lots and to work with the rolling terrain at the club. “It gives the project a cachet,” he explained, adding that property owners will have privileged year-long access to the walking trails on site and the golf course. 

Pomminville mentioned her experience working with Elli Construction on housing developments in the area, including the Domaine de la Vallée des Outardes in Ormstown, the Projet West in Huntingdon, and the Domaine des Brises in Saint-Stanislas-de-Kostka. She agreed that Domaine Port Lewis represents a unique project. 

Faubert admitted the project has taken time to develop, and he thanked those who signaled their interest as far back as 2020 and who have stuck with it. He also thanked the municipality of Saint-Anicet for their cooperation and belief in the project. Mayor Moretti praised the developers in turn for their vision and insistence on creating harmonious living environments. “Saint-Anicet is the paradise of the Haut-Saint-Laurent!” he exclaimed. “We need to be looking ahead at the future. This project will go far beyond the first phase. There is so much potential,” he said. 

Faubert confirmed that lots are already being reserved for the first phase of construction, and project partners expect to begin signing contracts in early May. The developers anticipate the second phase will begin later this year, in the fall. 

Phase one of new housing project is underway in Saint-Anicet Read More »

Legault is resolute in support for supply management

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , , , , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

Quebec Premier François Legault met with representatives from the Union des Producteurs Agricoles (UPA), as well as representatives from Agropur, the Solio Cooperative Group, and the Conseil de la Transformation Alimentaire du Québec during a visit to the Huntingdon riding on April 10.

Legault spoke with the different agricultural organizations about the potential impacts of tariffs imposed by the U.S. administration, and about the eventual renegotiation of the Canada-United States-Mexico trade agreement.

Following this, the premier toured the family-run Ferme P.Cécyre dairy farm in Sainte-Martine, where he talked with owners Pierre and Philippe Cécyre and their families about the farm and its history, their production, and the use of robotic milking technologies. “They work hard. It is seven days a week,” said Legault, after visiting the dairy barn. “We need to thank our farmers,” he added.

In an exclusive interview with The Gleaner, the premier spoke candidly about the importance of supply management and of defending the interests of farmers in trade negotiations.

Legault acknowledges there were concessions made in 2017 that impacted dairy farmers. “I made a commitment that there would be no de facto concessions on supply management,” he insisted, noting he was pleased to see federal leaders doubling down on this commitment during the election campaign.

“If we want to be able to continue to have small farms across all the regions of Quebec, we must protect supply management,” Legault maintained.

In Quebec, the supply management system regulates production through the allocation of quotas to match market demand. This provides financial stability to farms while ensuring a steady supply of local products, by establishing prices based on production costs and other factors and by controlling imports. Supply management affects the production of milk and dairy products, chicken, turkey, and eggs.

According to the Ministère de l’Agriculture, des Pêcheries et de l’Alimentation, there were more than 5,360 quota-holding producers operating in Quebec under the supply management system in 2023. These farms produced 3.48 billion litres of milk, 409,000 metric tons of chicken and turkey meat, and 178.7 million dozen of eggs.

The province was entirely self-sufficient for chicken meat, fluid milk, and dairy products apart from cream. Quebec farmers produced almost 100 per cent of our turkey consumption and met around 80 per cent of the demand for eggs and cream.

Legault is resolute in support for supply management Read More »

Scroll to Top