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Radhouane Masmoudi, president of the Islamic Cultural Centre of Sherbrooke (CCIS), Sherbrooke councillor Fernanda Luz, and Mohamed Soulami, director general of Actions Interculturelles, gathered to commemorate the Quebec mosque attack in Sherbrooke earlier this year

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

A wave of concern has emerged from Sherbrooke’s Muslim community following a recent city council decision that prevents religious activities from taking place at the city-owned Centre de foires. The vote, which ended 8–6 against allowing such events, has sparked disappointment and prompted renewed calls for dialogue and change.

Mohamed Soulami, a well-known advocate and director of Actions Interculturelles, expressed his dismay in an interview following the May 6 council meeting, where nearly a dozen community members spoke out. “It creates great damage for us,” he said, noting the ban affects a large population that has used the space for key community gatherings, particularly for the two major Muslim holidays celebrated annually.

Soulami clarified that Actions Interculturelles is a non-religious organization that works with many cultural groups—francophones, anglophones, Indigenous peoples, and newcomers from countries like Vietnam and former Yugoslavia. Its work promotes integration and community building. “We need to be in a place where we can live well together,” he said.

The issue revolves around access to public space. Soulami explained that past religious celebrations at the Centre de foires have drawn thousands, far more than local mosques can accommodate. “A room for 800 or 1,000 people is not enough—often it’s 3,000 or 4,000 people who gather,” he said, adding that holding the celebrations in a large, neutral venue avoids disturbing residential areas and supports social harmony.

Community voices at the council meeting echoed this point, calling the celebrations “a bit like Christmas for the children,” complete with games, refreshments, and cultural festivities. Many were disheartened to learn that such gatherings would no longer be permitted in a municipal facility.

While the city’s policy shift stems from the legal implications of Quebec’s Law on State Secularism and the full municipalization of the Centre de foires following the dissolution of Destination Sherbrooke, critics like Soulami argue that “nothing in the law” requires a ban. He views the current policy as potentially discriminatory and lacking a legal foundation.

“There needs to be a revision of this policy,” Soulami said. “As long as these activities don’t disturb others, they should be allowed—for the good of everyone.”

Mayor Évelyne Beaudin has acknowledged the complexity of the issue, indicating that no changes will occur before the fall. “We fall under the government of Quebec, and there is a reflection underway. We’ll wait for the working group’s results, so it won’t be immediate,” she said, though she expressed openness to revisiting municipal regulations.

For now, Soulami said the community is awaiting a response from the city, hoping for a resolution before the next scheduled celebration in early June. “It’s a party for children… tea, coffee, pastries—people meet. It’s very positive. It doesn’t disturb anyone,” he said.

“We are proud of Sherbrooke. It’s an inclusive and welcoming city. We just want it to stay that way.”

Courtesy of www.invasivespeciescentre.ca
Eurasian watermilfoil

Invasive aquatic species on the rise in Quebec

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

With boating season underway across Quebec, scientists and environmental groups are sounding the alarm about a growing threat to the province’s waterways: invasive aquatic plant species. Among the most concerning are Eurasian watermilfoil and water chestnut, which are spreading rapidly across southern Quebec and disrupting ecosystems in lakes and rivers.

Dr. Morgan Botrel, a postdoctoral researcher in aquatic plant ecology at McGill University, explained in an interview with The Record that these species not only outcompete native plants, but also harm water quality and biodiversity. “Eurasian watermilfoil spreads easily because it reproduces from fragments,” she said. “Once it gets into a lake, it forms massive beds that block sunlight and reduce oxygen, which impacts fish and other fauna.”

Botrel’s background includes a PhD on aquatic vegetation in Lac Saint-Pierre, where she found that native plant beds can actually filter pollutants and help regulate carbon cycles. “We need to talk more about the benefits of native aquatic plants,” she said. “They provide essential ecosystem services, and it’s important that people don’t confuse them with invasive species and start pulling them out.”

While Eurasian watermilfoil has long been a concern in the Eastern Townships and the Outaouais, water chestnut is an emerging problem in the Saint-François and Yamaska rivers. Native to Europe and Asia, the floating plant produces hard chestnut-like seeds and forms dense surface mats. “Once the chestnuts fall and take root, it’s very difficult to get rid of them,” said Botrel. “They block light and oxygen, and mechanical removal is labour-intensive.”

Botrel emphasized that early intervention is key. “Diving teams can be effective in small areas, but it’s time-consuming. The most strategic approach is prevention—identifying vulnerable lakes and using early detection tools like environmental DNA sampling.”

In 2024, the Regional Environmental Council of Estrie (CREE) confirmed the presence of the Georgian viviparid, a new invasive snail species, in Brompton Lake. During a packed press conference in Saint-Denis-de-Brompton, Dr. David O’Connor of the CREE explained that the species is hard to detect due to its planktonic larvae, and urged proper boat and equipment decontamination using hot, high-pressure water. “Even a small amount of water in a life jacket or some soil on water shoes can transport these species,” he warned.

CREE has since classified lakes in Estrie by their risk level: “Red” for those harbouring hard-to-detect invasive species, such as zebra mussels or viviparids, and “Yellow” for more manageable threats like watermilfoil. Brompton Lake, Memphrémagog, and the Magog River are among the red-level sites, requiring stringent cleaning protocols before and after use.

A second 2024 report, focused on Lake Memphremagog, highlighted the international dimensions of the problem. The Memphremagog Watershed Association (MWA) in Vermont and its Canadian counterpart, Memphremagog Conservation Inc., continue to coordinate efforts to stop the northward spread of zebra mussels and other invasive species across the Canada–U.S. border. “We’re seeing zebra mussels move from Magog toward Georgeville,” MWA’s Jennifer Hopkins noted, citing the lake’s northward flow and the role of wake boats in spreading larvae.

Efforts on both sides of the border include “Clean, Drain, Dry” campaigns, boat inspection stations, and public awareness initiatives. However, as Hopkins pointed out, “There’s no single body formally coordinating everything,” underlining the ongoing need for cross-border regulatory alignment.

Botrel agreed that more could be done. “We need better integration of local knowledge,” she said, explaining that much of Quebec’s plant data is scattered across different sources, including the Organismes de bassins versants (OBVs)—non-profit watershed management organizations that monitor water quality and coordinate environmental action in specific drainage basins. Her current work involves compiling this fragmented data to better understand how native plant communities might resist invasion. “We may find that degraded lakes are more vulnerable,” she said.

While new technologies like AI-guided amphibious drones and environmental DNA detection are promising, Botrel stressed the importance of consistent action from the public. “Washing boats properly isn’t just about stopping the spread,” she said. “It’s about protecting the future of our lakes.”

As Botrel and others continue their work in May 2025, one message rings clear: aquatic ecosystems in Quebec are under pressure, and everyone has a role to play in safeguarding them.

William Crooks
Members of Hatley Township council gathered at the May 6 meeting to discuss road repairs, zoning updates, and upcoming infrastructure projects

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

In Hatley Township, the state of the roads dominated discussion during the May 6 council meeting, with Mayor Vincent Fontaine openly acknowledging the staggering cost of bringing the municipality’s network of roads up to standard: $40 million.

Held at the town hall, the meeting was attended by six residents, several of whom raised concerns during the question period about deteriorating road conditions across the township. Their complaints ranged from potholes and collapsing surfaces to roads damaged by heavy vehicle traffic.

One resident described calling the municipality about a gaping hole on a road in the area. Within 15 minutes, workers were on site and promptly installed a barrier to secure the area. While residents expressed appreciation for the quick response, they also emphasized the overwhelming scale of the issue. Mayor Fontaine confirmed that Hatley is responsible for maintaining approximately 98 kilometres of roadway—no small task given spring thaw damage.

“In the spring, it’s terrible,” Fontaine said. “We’ve got 98 kilometres of road to maintain. We’ve done the main arteries, and now we’re moving on to the rest.”

The mayor revealed that a recent report presented by the MRC put the total cost of fully restoring Hatley’s roads at $40 million. “When we saw that report, everyone had a tear in their eye. We knew we’d never be able to do it all,” he admitted. “We have an annual budget of about $5 million. For the entire territory, $40 million is just impossible.”

However, some funding is being strategically allocated. The mayor explained that proceeds from the local quarry—amounting to over $500,000—will be spent on specific roads near the extraction site, including Chemin d’Albert-Mines, and Chemin Rogers. The upcoming $1.375 million project on Chemin du Lac will be financed in part by that fund, as well as with provincial grants and a long-term loan.

Still, residents voiced frustration. One questioned whether it might be more efficient to reduce road widths to save on maintenance. The mayor acknowledged that narrower roads could be considered during new construction projects, though he said decisions are made on a case-by-case basis.

“We try to adapt our methods,” he said, “but there’s no universal solution.”

Another resident suggested reintroducing a local surtax to help pay for road maintenance, recalling one previously levied for paving. Fontaine responded that while a surtax had funded asphalt projects in the past, it wasn’t currently being considered for maintenance work.

In the face of limited resources, temporary fixes remain a priority. Council approved a cold patch asphalt contract worth up to $311,244 to plug potholes ahead of larger repairs. “Until we can fully redo all the roads, we still have to maintain them,” said one councillor. “This is an interim solution.”

The issue of line painting also came up. Last year’s contractor was unable to complete the work, prompting a discussion about whether it might be sufficient to do line painting every two years instead of annually. Ultimately, council decided to proceed with a $20,825 contract for 2025 to ensure safety—particularly during snowstorms, when faded or missing lines can cause confusion for drivers.

Other decisions included hiring summer employees for public works and approving minor renovations to the upper-level bistro space in the town hall. These renovations, which will include replacing doors and flooring, aim to make the space safer and more welcoming for public events. The presence of a marmot sneaking into the hall was mentioned with a touch of humour during the discussion.

Also approved was a $15,000 allocation for granular materials to improve parking near the municipal swimming area on Chemin Kingdom. Employees of the town will complete the work. A resident also raised concerns about ambiguous pedestrian crossings near Parc de la Chaumière, suggesting one in particular be removed due to its odd placement. Council said they would review it.

Environmental concerns were addressed in a proposal to reforest a portion of municipally owned land. The township accepted a $4,750 offer from the Conseil régional de l’environnement de l’Estrie for site analysis and planning. The project aims to reduce erosion and sediment runoff into a nearby creek.

Council also passed zoning amendments for areas near Autoroute 410, designating one section for small commercial operations without storage or fuel stations, and adopted a conditional use regulation for the EX4 zone, located near two local quarries. These changes were described as steps toward better land-use planning aligned with recent public consultations and development plans.

Additionally, a $1.375 million borrowing bylaw was introduced to fund the Chemin du Lac resurfacing project. The mayor emphasized that while the funding includes a significant quarry contribution and anticipated subsidies, a portion will be financed through debt.

Finally, council approved the latest financial report, which will be available on the township’s website, and adopted a routine list of expenses and accounts payable totalling roughly $24,000.

Despite the difficult road ahead—figuratively and literally—Fontaine encouraged residents to continue reporting issues either by phone or through the municipal website. “That’s the best way to get it into our system,” he said, “and our teams prioritize interventions based on what’s reported.”

The meeting lasted about 30 minutes and was adjourned around 7:30 p.m.

William Crooks
Lac-Brome council members, including Mayor Richard Burcombe, seated during the May 5 public meeting where the fire station project and expropriation plans were discussed

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

During the May 5 council meeting, the Town of Brome Lake (Lac-Brome) council confirmed its decision to proceed with the expropriation of land owned by Canards du Lac Brome, a historic duck farm, to construct a new fire station. Approximately 25 residents attended the meeting, presided over by Mayor Richard Burcombe.

The council awarded a contract to Laboratoire Montérégie for $32,020.54 to conduct geotechnical studies on the proposed site. A council representative noted that the duck farm owners are cooperating with the study, stating, “Contrary to what has been mentioned this evening, relations between the town and the duck farm are excellent. The proof is that they’re allowing us to do geotechnical studies before even the expropriation procedures are done.”

Despite this cooperation, the decision has sparked controversy among residents. A local resident expressed her concerns, saying, “I would like to give kudos to the Duck Farm and the generosity that they have for this town,” before questioning why the town-owned land adjacent to the community centre couldn’t be utilized instead.

Mayor Burcombe responded by referencing the original intention of the land donation, emphasizing that it was meant for recreational purposes. “A fire station is not recreation,” he stated. “Consequently, he envisioned… the land is big enough to extend after if the community centre had to expand.”

Councillor Louise Morin acknowledged the difficulty of the decision, noting, “I felt bad… to expropriate from the duck farm, who’s been a solid part of our community for a hundred and some odd years.” However, she added, “They understand it, so it’s not a problem.”

During the meeting, it was also clarified that a portion of the land where the community centre sits still belongs to a local foundation, which could complicate any proposed expansion or re-use of adjacent parcels.

Other key developments

In the question periods, several issues were raised by residents:

• A resident inquired about compensation for first responders, noting that one of three responders attending a medical call was not paid. Mayor Burcombe acknowledged the importance of clarity in compensation and stated that the matter would be looked into.
• Concerns were raised about safety along the bike path, particularly regarding conflicts between pedestrians and cyclists wearing headphones. Councillor Lee Patterson mentioned that while signage exists in some areas, the request for better signage would be taken under advisement.
• The ongoing planning by Hydro-Québec for a new substation was discussed. Mayor Burcombe clarified that no final decision has been made about the location of the new 120 kV station, but confirmed that two corridors are now being studied, both avoiding the previously rejected North Corridor. “We’re going to continue to negotiate with Hydro,” he said.
• Marc Pelletier, an environmental advocate, suggested organizing a bilingual conference on recent changes in livestock management regulations. Councillor Morin responded positively but noted that the initially proposed $500 speaker fee was too high. “We’re trying to find an alternative,” she said, adding that the town is exploring options for delivering the event.

Infrastructure and spending

The council authorized several major expenditures and projects:

• A $155,067.68 agreement with a developer for sanitary sewer extension work along Chemin Mill.
• A contract to Englobe worth $41,367.78 for materials control and potential soil analysis on sidewalk repair projects on Victoria and Milton.
• A $56,395.24 contract to Construction DLS for resurfacing the Davis Road bridge, which remains under municipal responsibility despite being a provincial structure.
• $104,159.14 for improved play structures at Parc des Lions, based on durability rather than lowest cost.
• $55,153.51 to support heritage designations and an architectural guide as part of Lac-Brome’s urban plan revision.
• $15,000 for preliminary feasibility studies on an affordable housing project at 401 Chemin de Knowlton, a former seniors’ residence now vacant.

The council also rescinded two prior approvals for permits related to the Jardin-Lac-Brome project, citing unmet conditions.

Additionally, a new Three Pines-themed sign will be installed at Coldbrook Park, celebrating author Louise Penny’s fictional world, at a cost of $10,376.50.

The next major event on the calendar is Family Day, scheduled for May 31 at 11 a.m. at the community centre.

The meeting lasted roughly an hour and a half and ended near 8:30 p.m.

Canards du Lac Brome were contacted for comment on the land expropriation but did not respond before this article went to print.

William Crooks
Sherbrooke Mayor Évelyne Beaudin and Geneviève Hébert, MNA for Saint-François, answer reporters’ questions following the announcement of over $13 million in provincial funding for local water infrastructure projects

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Quebec government has granted $13.2 million to the City of Sherbrooke to support major upgrades to its aging water infrastructure. The announcement was made Monday, May 5 by Geneviève Hébert, MNA for Saint-François, on behalf of Municipal Affairs Minister Andrée Laforest. The funds are part of the 2023 Municipal Water Infrastructure Program (PRIMEAU), which provides support for large-scale waterworks renewal projects across Quebec.

Flanked by Sherbrooke Mayor Évelyne Beaudin and municipal officials, Hébert delivered the news at a press conference before taking questions from local media.

“This financial assistance will allow for the renewal of more than 3,200 metres of drinking water, stormwater, and wastewater conduits,” Hébert said. The work will take place on several streets, including Curé-LaRocque, Haig, Moore, Rioux, Lincoln, Fairmount, du Fédéral, Cambrai, des Ormes, and Dufferin.

Hébert noted that the Province will cover 75 per cent of the total project cost, which is estimated at just over $17 million. She praised the City’s long-term planning and commitment to improving underground infrastructure. “These are essential and crucial projects that are not always visible, but ones our government is proud to support.”

Mayor Beaudin emphasized that the projects are part of a broader, multi-year strategy to modernize Sherbrooke’s water systems. “Already, two requests under the PRIMEAU program have been submitted. The first was approved in July 2023 for $8.8 million. Today’s announcement represents the second, bringing the total so far to nearly $22 million,” she said.

Beaudin explained that Sherbrooke is entitled to over $41 million under the PRIMEAU envelope over a ten-year period. “These amounts allow us to take real steps toward reducing our maintenance deficit and upgrading our infrastructure to today’s standards.”

While welcoming the funding, Beaudin made it clear that the program does not cover all the city’s water-related needs. “If we want to respond to all of them, we’ll need to think outside of current programs,” she said. “Every program comes with conditions, and combining those conditions is a challenge at the local level. That’s why we continue to advocate for unconditional transfers to municipalities.”

Asked whether the funding would affect the moratorium on new developments imposed in February due to wastewater overflow concerns, Beaudin said the two issues were not directly related. “The issues were already known, and the amounts already committed. Today’s announcement doesn’t change that.”

She explained that the projects covered by PRIMEAU funding are part of a long-standing plan and focus on linear infrastructure—underground pipes and conduits—rather than overflow stations or the city’s wastewater treatment plant.

“We have over 150 kilometres of combined sewer lines where stormwater and domestic wastewater share the same conduit,” she said. “This puts pressure on the network, and separating those systems is part of our work, but these specific projects were already planned and are not tied directly to overflow infrastructure.”

Beaudin confirmed that a special committee has been formed to examine funding options for upgrading the wastewater treatment plant, which is expected to cost tens of millions. “We’re going to need innovative solutions and potentially new funding sources,” she said, adding that these upgrades could eventually have tax implications for residents. “Not for 2025—the budget has already been adopted—but this will certainly be a concern for the next municipal council.”

She added that the committee’s recommendations will be delivered to the next council, and expressed hope that the next mayor “will be passionate about water management.”

Beaudin also pointed to regulatory changes as a key reason for Sherbrooke’s moratorium on new developments in certain zones. “The government changed the standards,” she said. “Before, overflow limits were based on city-wide averages. Now they are measured outlet by outlet. One day we were within the norms, and the next day we were not.”

Asked whether the current funding will help resolve some of the 26 infrastructure zones affected by the moratorium, Beaudin responded, “Unfortunately, it doesn’t work that way.” She reiterated that the projects funded through this announcement focus on already-planned work unrelated to the specific overflow sites.

Work is already underway, according to Beaudin. “The construction season started about a month ago. You’re probably seeing crews around the city. But even for us as elected officials, it’s not always obvious which project falls under which program.”

The City is following a government-approved project plan that prioritizes each site based on need. “Sometimes the choice of which site to start with depends on the requirements of the particular program. For example, if the funding envelope is about to expire, that can affect which project gets done first.”

She acknowledged that some residents may question the locations chosen for construction. “People may see us working on a street and wonder why, or why not somewhere else. The truth is, our priorities are based on underground infrastructure needs—not what’s visible at the surface.”

Ultimately, Beaudin framed the investments as necessary groundwork for future growth. “If we don’t do this, we can’t develop. We’re stuck. But if we do it right, we’ll have a strong, modern system ready to serve Sherbrooke for decades to come.”

According to a related release, the PRIMEAU program is part of the Quebec Infrastructure Plan 2025–2035, which includes over $7 billion in municipal infrastructure investments. Sherbrooke’s current water upgrades represent one of the largest infrastructure projects under this program to date.

William Crooks
Former firefighters and elected officials stand together in front of the newly unveiled granite monument on Queen Street

Lennoxville honours its firefighting family with permanent tribute

By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative

A crowd of current and former firefighters, family members, local dignitaries, and residents gathered outside the Lennoxville Borough Office on Saturday, May 3, to witness the unveiling of a long-anticipated monument dedicated to the town’s volunteer firefighters. The granite sculpture, designed by Brian Wilson and fabricated by Rock of Ages in Stanstead, now stands as a permanent tribute to generations of Lennoxville residents who served their community from 1883 until 2019.

The monument honours not only emergency responders but the heart of a community that built its safety network through sweat and service. “This monument pays tribute to the volunteer firefighters of Lennoxville, who served their community with exemplary generosity,” said Sherbrooke Mayor Évelyne Beaudin during the ceremony. “For decades, they answered the call—sometimes at the peril of their lives—to protect others.”

Borough President Claude Charron praised the enduring community spirit of Lennoxville’s volunteers. “They were builders of the community,” he said. “Always present at celebrations and local activities, they forged genuine and lasting bonds.” Charron also acknowledged the many individuals who helped bring the monument project to life, including former borough director André Blais and former firefighter George Beaulieu, who played a key role in gathering names for the memorial.

One of the most moving speeches came from former Lennoxville firefighter Scott Passmore, who now serves full-time with Sherbrooke’s Station 6. Passmore, whose career began in Lennoxville nearly 30 years ago, reflected on the history and camaraderie of the department. “Some members stayed a few years, others stayed for decades,” he said. “The dedication was unmatched anywhere.”

Passmore noted the department’s deep roots, starting around 1883 with horse-drawn equipment and buckets, housed in the basement of Lennoxville’s town hall. That equipment evolved, but the volunteer spirit remained constant until 2019, when volunteers were replaced by full-time firefighters. “Monday, May 27, 2019 was a sad day here in town,” he said. “The level of dedication of the guys that stayed until the end never wavered.”

The ceremony was also personal for many in the crowd, including Lynne Beattie, widow of longtime firefighter Terry Beattie, who was closely involved in the early planning for the monument before his passing. Terry was a fixture in the Lennoxville fire department for over four decades and remained active until the very end. “He loved every minute of it,” Lynne said in an interview after the event. “It was years of dedication.”

Lynne recounted how Terry would leap into action the moment his pager went off, often with his gear already laid out by the bed. “Sometimes we’d be out with the kids, and that beeper would go off—and boom, we’d get a ride like you wouldn’t believe,” she said with a smile. “He’d have to be there, for all of them.”

The fire department was more than just a workplace for Terry—it was a family. “They were very close,” Lynne said. “It had to be part of our life, or it wouldn’t have worked out, because they were dedicated to the bone.”

Lynne fondly remembered community events where Terry and other volunteers ran barbecues and made fries. Even after his retirement, Terry remained connected to Lennoxville, although stepping away left a void. “When he retired, it was a big, big emptiness for him,” she said.

Passmore also acknowledged the sacrifices made by the families of firefighters. “The time it took away from our families was immense,” he said. “But thank you very much.” He emphasized the collective effort that brought the monument to fruition, thanking everyone from city staff to fellow committee members.

The monument itself is etched with the names of firefighters going back as far as records allowed. However, some names were likely missed due to incomplete archives. The Lennoxville Volunteer Firefighters Association is still accepting submissions from families to add names in future updates.

To close the event, longtime firefighter George Martel, who joined the department in the 1960s and served for more than 40 years, was invited to unveil the monument. The sculpture, adorned with detailed sandblasting and built to endure generations, was revealed to applause and quiet reflection.

Following the unveiling, attendees walked together to the reception hall for coffee, donuts, and conversation. There, the stories continued—of camaraderie, dedication, and the fire calls that once echoed through the town.

The monument now stands as a visible reminder of that spirit, a permanent fixture on Queen Street that honours those who put their lives on the line, often with no expectation of recognition. “This monument is your legacy,” said Mayor Beaudin. “Let it be a source of inspiration for generations to come.”

William Crooks
Representatives from three community organizations joined township officials and the 2025 Volunteer of the Year for a group photo following the signing of a new three-year agreement. From left: Brendan Rhodes and Troy Hopps (CAG), Isabelle Lanari-Boisclair (ACCS, front), James McGregor (ACCS, back), Katherine Snow (SMPMC, in red), Claire Galipeau (Volunteer of the Year, holding flowers), and Sébastien Croteau (Director General of the Township).

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Township of Stanstead hosted its annual Volunteer’s Celebration on May 2 at the town hall, combining recognition of local service with the public signing of a new three-year funding agreement with three core community groups.

This year’s Volunteer of the Year award was presented to Claire Galipeau of Fitch Bay. Galipeau, who moved to the area in 2016 with her husband, said the recognition was a surprise — but one she had quietly prepared for. “This is our first home,” she said. “I’d like to thank the Township of Stanstead and all the residents for their welcome.” She also thanked those who had invited her to get involved and supported her efforts over the years, as well as “all the citizens for their participation in our activities.”

Councillor Constance Ramacieri welcomed guests and spoke on behalf of Mayor Pierre Martineau, who was unable to attend due to a family commitment. In her bilingual remarks, Ramacieri reflected on the Latin roots of the words volunteer and bénévole, both of which mean will, desire, or benevolence. “The combination of these two origins is at the heart of the very meaning of actions of the people we honour today,” she said. “The resilience of our community lies in large part in the caring, voluntary actions of individuals.”

Ahead of the award presentation, Ramacieri invited representatives of three local organisations to join her and Director General Sébastien Croteau for the formal signing of a three-year agreement. The goal of the agreement is to provide greater financial stability and planning capacity for the participating groups, which are active in the Georgeville and Fitch Bay sectors.

The agreement was signed with the Community Association of Georgeville (CAG), the Saint Matthias Property Management Committee (SMPMC), and Action Communautaire du Canton de Stanstead (ACCS). Together, these organisations operate key community spaces and offer cultural and social programming throughout the year.

CAG maintains the Murray Memorial Centre and hosts activities such as book sales and neighbourhood gatherings. SMPMC manages Gustin Hall in Fitch Bay. ACCS, which evolved from the former “Les Amis de Fitch Bay,” runs a Saturday morning café and other inclusive initiatives that foster local engagement.

“The idea was to ensure that the organizations have more of a footing for three years,” Ramacieri explained in an interview during the event. “Instead of having to do this every year, let’s make sure that our organizations have a good footing and know what’s going to happen.”

She noted that the municipal council had made “community” a top priority during its planning session in January, and the agreement was signed during Volunteer Week to highlight that commitment. “This is really more important now than ever,” she said.

One speaker at the signing called the agreement a “very good idea” for three reasons: the multi-year commitment, the support for building maintenance, and the opportunity to present the decision publicly. “Otherwise, people wouldn’t know about it,” he said.

Representatives participating in the signing included Brendan Rhodes and Troy Hopps from the CAG; Katherine Snow from the SMPMC; and Isabelle Lanari-Boisclair and James McGregor from ACCS.

“This event reminds us that the strength of our community comes from the people who give their time and energy to it,” Ramacieri said. “And tonight, we celebrate them.”

William Crooks
Christian Gagnon, Carie Nixon, Vicki Nixon, and Vicky Bélanger stand together at La Maison Aube-Lumière with a cheque for $25,272 raised during the fourth annual Create for Comfort fundraiser

Sisters raise record funds for Aube-Lumière through community-driven creative event

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Sisters Carie and Vicki Nixon have once again rallied the local community to support La Maison Aube-Lumière, raising a record-breaking $25,272 through their fourth annual “Create for Comfort” fundraiser held on April 26.

The initiative, which includes a silent auction and a creative arts day, has grown steadily since its inception in 2021, shortly after their mother was diagnosed with cancer and received end-of-life care at Aube-Lumière. “The first day here, we knew what an incredible place it was,” said one of the sisters during an interview at the hospice. “The care to the patient, but also the care that families receive… the sense of peace, the tranquility, and the food—everything.”

Moved by the compassion and personalized support their family received during their mother’s four-month stay, the sisters decided to dedicate their fundraising efforts to Aube-Lumière after previously supporting the Canadian Cancer Society for 14 years. “It wasn’t just losing our mom,” one said. “I felt like we’d lost our family. So, then I knew day one that I was coming to volunteer here.”

This year’s silent auction featured 300 donated items and brought in over $15,500. “There are some big-ticket items, but it’s the baked goods that are a highlight—loaves of bread for $70, cinnamon rolls for $100, cookies for $125,” they explained. “It’s families bidding against families, all for a great cause.”

All auction items were donated by friends, family, local businesses, and members of the wider English-speaking community. One participant even contributed a weekend at her chalet. The enthusiasm was such that many supporters, including the sisters’ own children and extended family, took part in gathering items and volunteering. “Our mom’s grandkids, and even her great-grandson, help out. One of my daughters works at a cheese place and tried to get donations from there,” one sister shared, describing how giving is a family value passed down through generations.

In addition to the auction, the in-person “creative day” portion of the fundraiser welcomed 28 participants, who engaged in scrapbooking, knitting, crocheting, and painting. Instead of a set entrance fee, attendees were asked to give a minimum $30 donation, though many gave more. Volunteers, including relatives of the Nixons, handled logistics and meals. Domino’s Pizza once again provided food at no cost, which was resold at the event to offset expenses.

The two sisters’ passion and perseverance have helped generate over $80,000 for Aube-Lumière over four years. Their goal for 2026 is already set: $27,000. “Each year, I’ve set a goal, and we’ve hit it. I’m going for $27,000 next,” one sister said confidently. Her sibling responded with a laugh, “She freaks me out a little. I’m a little more cautious.”

Christian Gagnon, directeur général of Aube-Lumière, expressed heartfelt appreciation for the sisters’ contribution. “I remember their mother—she was here every day for four months, always gracious,” he said. “When I see the daughters continuing her legacy, I see the same spirit. Their support is so important to us, and we are deeply grateful. It’s their initiative, their dedication, and their generosity that make all the difference.”

The Create for Comfort event typically begins organizing in December, with donation requests going out in March. The sisters expect to return next spring with even more momentum. “It takes one person to make a difference. I had the idea, but the community is what’s making it happen,” one said. “Giving back to this place is just a small percentage of what we received.”

William Crooks
Speakers from FLYING WHALES, joined by local and provincial representatives, respond to reporters’ questions following the announcement of the company’s new airship assembly facility near Sherbrooke Airport

Airship factory project takes flight

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

In a move hailed as transformative for the Eastern Townships and the province, Flying Whales announced on May 1 the official selection of Sherbrooke’s airport site in Cookshire-Eaton as the future home of its North American airship manufacturing facility.

The news was made public during the annual convention of the Quebec Air Transport Association at the Delta Hotel Sherbrooke, where company leaders, elected officials, and dignitaries from France and Québec gathered to unveil the company’s strategy and take questions from reporters.

According to a press release, the 50-hectare site near the Sherbrooke Airport will host the central assembly and testing hub for Flying Whales’ LCA60T rigid airships, which are designed to transport heavy cargo to remote areas. Construction is expected to begin in 2027, with the first Quebec-built airships taking to the skies in 2029.

“This is the largest aeronautical cooperation project between France and Quebec,” said Vincent Guibout, CEO of Flying Whales and President of its Quebec subsidiary. “The Sherbrooke site will be a pillar of our North and South American operations.”

Guibout emphasized the region’s advantages, noting that “with a lifting capacity 15 times greater than a helicopter and an environmental footprint 10 times smaller, the LCA60T is an accelerator of the energy transition.”

The Quebec facility, which will mirror an existing one in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France, is projected to create over 300 direct jobs and hundreds more indirectly. The initiative also promises $3 billion in export revenues across the Americas.

Funding and regional impact

To date, between $75 and $80 million has been invested in Flying Whales by Quebec, making the province its largest shareholder. “We are truly a Franco-Quebecois company,” Guibout said, highlighting that $150 million has already gone into research and development. Future funding will come from successive capital increases as the company advances toward maturity and a public offering.

Flying Whales Quebec’s airships are already in testing phases, with key components being built in Longueuil and by partners such as Thales Canada and Delastec. “All major systems are fabricated. We’re no longer talking about ideas in the air—this is concrete,” Guibout told the audience.

The Cookshire-Eaton site was selected over other finalists, including Trois-Rivières, following a rigorous process involving more than a dozen potential locations. “We’re entering exclusive negotiations with Sherbrooke and Cookshire-Eaton,” Guibout confirmed, crediting Investissement Québec for its early support.

Local leaders respond

Sherbrooke Mayor Évelyne Beaudin said the announcement marked the realization of a long-standing municipal goal: transforming the airport into a hub for industrial and technological development. “Flying Whales isn’t just a dream project—it’s becoming a reality,” she said. “And it’s going to have a regional impact far beyond Sherbrooke itself.”

She added that no municipal funds were required to secure the project. “We didn’t have to dig into our pockets,” she told reporters. “It was our site’s strengths—our workforce, our terrain, our innovation ecosystem—that made the difference.”

Cookshire-Eaton Mayor Mario Gendron echoed the sentiment, confirming that while Sherbrooke owns the land, both municipalities will collaborate on surrounding infrastructure. “Now that we’ve been chosen, we can work together to move this forward,” he said, noting the likely creation of a joint governance body to manage utilities and cost-sharing.

Robert G. Roy, prefect of the Haut-Saint-François RCM, highlighted the regional unity that helped land the project. “This kind of collaboration is one of our great strengths,” he said.

France–Québec cooperation

Camille Pauly, Deputy Consul General of France in Quebec, said the announcement reflects both nations’ commitment to sustainable innovation. “Flying Whales was recognized in France as a top tech startup in 2021,” she said. “This project is exactly the kind of bilateral initiative we need to support a low-carbon economy.”

The LCA60T airship has already attracted over 70 commercial agreements globally, with Québec expected to play a major role in future operations. Guibout said the aircraft will be especially useful in Canada’s North, where it can deliver wind turbine components, electrical infrastructure, and mining equipment to areas unreachable by road.

“Think of it like a new highway,” Guibout said. “Except it flies and produces a fraction of the carbon.”

What’s next

Construction is slated to begin in 2027, with production starting in Sherbrooke by the end of 2029. Until then, testing and certification will continue in France.

“Once we’re flying in Québec,” Guibout said, “we’ll be helping to solve some of the province’s most pressing logistical and environmental challenges—from mineral transport to clean energy deployment.”

The announcement was described as a major milestone not just for Flying Whales, but for the Townships. “Welcome home,” Beaudin said. “We’re proud to be the heart of your North American adventure.”

By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative

In the wake of a somewhat narrow national Liberal minority win, two familiar names from the Eastern Townships are heading to Ottawa—though their paths were markedly different on election night.

In Brome–Missisquoi, former Bromont mayor Louis Villeneuve secured a solid Liberal victory with 48.2 per cent of the vote, outpacing Bloc Québécois candidate Jeff Boudreault (28.2 per cent) and Conservative Steve Charbonneau (19.0 per cent). Villeneuve, who resigned from his post as mayor on April 29, reflected on the change in scale his new role entails. “As a mayor, I was a big fish in a small pond,” he said. “Now I’ll be a small fish in a big one.”

Despite having hoped for a Liberal majority, Villeneuve said he is confident the minority government under Mark Carney will be able to deliver. “It’s not because we are a minority that we can’t do the job,” he stated. He added that he expects Carney to work across party lines to tackle national issues, especially Canada’s relationship with the United States. “We need to work together to make Canada… I don’t want to say, ‘make Canada great again,’ but you know what I mean.”

Villeneuve emphasized that his top priority is to represent the needs of Brome–Missisquoi residents in Parliament. “My first responsibility is to be the voice of the people here,” he said. Housing, health, the environment, and supply management emerged as key concerns during his campaign. He said his 12 years in municipal politics have shaped his approach to federal work, particularly in bringing a spirit of “proximity” to his new role. “Municipalities are the government closest to the people,” he said. “I want to bring that same connection to Ottawa.”

Across the district line in Shefford, Bloc Québécois MP Andréanne Larouche narrowly held her seat, beating Liberal Félix Dionne by less than one per cent—39.8 to 38.9. “It was very close,” Larouche acknowledged, noting she had been too busy meeting constituents the day after the vote to check whether a recount would be triggered.

Still, she sees her win as a recognition of her past five years of work. “It’s a big recognition of my work and the importance of having someone to speak for Quebec,” she said. Larouche cited local priorities like agriculture, housing, and support for seniors and first-time homebuyers as key items on her agenda. She also pointed to homelessness in Granby and environmental protections, including her ongoing work to safeguard the Yamaska River.

On the national stage, Larouche said the Bloc would “collaborate with everyone” in the House of Commons, ensuring Quebec’s interests are included in upcoming negotiations. “When it’s good for Quebec, we will vote for [it], when it’s not good for Quebec, we will vote against,” she said. Having served under minority governments since 2019, she added, “It’s the same reality. People recognize minority governments can do something—if people collaborate.”

While both Villeneuve and Larouche expressed gratitude for their supporters, neither dwelled on celebrations. Villeneuve said he was catching up on sleep and preparing to staff his new office. “For me, it’s new—I feel like a young boy going to school for the first time,” he joked. Larouche said she was already back to work, meeting with entrepreneurs and voters. “When you’re elected, you have to do your work—and that’s why I’m here again.”

Both MPs will soon rejoin a federal landscape that remains deeply divided, but both say they’re ready to get to work.

William Crooks
Former Director Bert Collins and current Director Ryan Smith stand together on the green of the 9th hole at the Old Lennoxville Golf Club, marking the start of a new season and the continuation of a proud local tradition

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

When Ryan Smith stepped into his new role as Director of the Old Lennoxville Golf & Ski (formerly the Old Lennoxville Golf Club), earlier this month, he was doing more than launching a new chapter for the course—he was continuing a deeply rooted family tradition. The clubhouse now bears the name of his grandfather, Garth Smith, a former head golf professional and longtime Bishop’s University coach and administrator remembered fondly throughout the community.

“The course just opened last Thursday,” Smith said in an interview April 30. “The rain helped clear the last patches of snow from the Orford Ski group, and now the course is in good shape—just waiting on some sun.”

Smith emphasized that his first year at the helm will be focused on enhancing the overall experience for players rather than making any major structural changes. “I just want to focus on how we can improve overall playing conditions and have a good experience on the course and in the clubhouse,” he said.

Garth Smith, who passed away in 2018, left a lasting mark not only on the golf course but on the local sports community more broadly. He served as the men’s basketball coach at Bishop’s University for 24 years and also held roles as Assistant Director of Athletics and Head Golf Professional. “He was a class act,” said former Gaiters coach Eddie Pomykala in The Record in 2018. “He taught us very well and left a great example showing us how to be an excellent human being.”

His contributions were officially recognized when the clubhouse at the Old Lennoxville Golf & Ski was named in his honour, a decision that came following his celebration of life in 2018. “I believe it was a Bishop’s initiative,” Ryan Smith explained, “and they reached out to my grandmother Sylvia [and family].”

Ryan credits both of his grandparents for their lasting impact on the local golf scene. “My grandmother was just as much a part of it,” he said. “There’s a long-standing tradition of golf in our family. My aunt’s a member here, another plays out of Milby, and my father plays out of Dufferin Heights.”

He also acknowledged the work of his predecessor, Bert Collins, who served as Director of the course for nearly 20 years. “Bert did an exceptional job,” Smith said. “He came in at a time when the course was in a tough spot and really turned it around—building up membership and keeping green fee traffic steady. We’re definitely benefiting from that today.”

Looking ahead to the season, Smith said the club’s calendar is already filling up. The Men’s Calcutta league kicks off on May 8, followed by the Ladies’ League on May 13. An Opening Tournament is slated for May 18, and the Couples Tournament will be held June 20. Summer highlights also include The Breal men’s event on July 12 and the prestigious Men’s “A” Interclub competition on July 13, which Old Lennoxville will host this year.

“We had 65 women sign up for the Ladies’ League,” said Smith. “It’s open to both members and non-members, and players can come when it works for them—it’s not as rigid as the Calcutta.”

The club also plans to revive a pre-pandemic favourite: the summer golf camp for juniors. “We used to run a really fun summer camp before COVID. Now that I’m here, I think it’s something we’d like to bring back,” Smith said.

And while Bishop’s University’s Gaiters golf team currently practices at Milby, Smith said he hopes to see them more often at Old Lennoxville. “We have a good relationship, and I’d love to get them practicing here more—whether it’s in the fall, for junior clinics, or summer camps.”

With longtime superintendent Gary LaBrecque returning for his 13th season and a team of full-time and student staff already hard at work, Smith is optimistic about the months ahead. “Golf’s growing fast,” he said. “A lot of people picked it up during the pandemic and stuck with it. Whether it’s your first round or your thousandth, we want people to feel welcome here.”

William Crooks
The 2025 participatory budget winners posed with Lennoxville councillors following the April 29 borough meeting, where their community projects were officially announced

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

At the Lennoxville borough council meeting on April 29, residents raised pressing concerns over road safety near Centennial Park while the borough also celebrated local community projects through its participatory budget program. Borough President Claude Charron presided over the session, which drew around ten residents to the Borough Hall.

The evening opened with routine business, including the adoption of minutes and updates on deferred items. Two planning files—one regarding 281 Queen Street and another concerning residential window and door replacements on William-Page Street—were approved without objection.

However, the question period brought urgency to the proceedings. A resident voiced serious concern about speeding on Speid Street, particularly between the tennis courts and Centennial Park, an area frequented by children and families. He explained that although speed bumps were installed last year, drivers tend to accelerate immediately afterward, reaching 60–70 km/h.

“Every neighbour I went to see had the same opinion,” he said, noting widespread agreement about the issue. He suggested further interventions like stop signs or an additional speed bump near the area. He also submitted a detailed PowerPoint and referenced an earlier, unsuccessful request made by a former neighbour.

Charron confirmed that the request would follow the standard evaluation process, which includes a professional review by city services. “You made the right move,” he said, adding that the request would now go through official channels for study and recommendation.

He also encouraged residents to contact the police directly if they observe dangerous patterns. “If you can tell them, ‘from this hour to this hour there’s a problem,’ they will be able to react effectively,” he said.

The issue led to broader discussion of street use in Lennoxville, with the resident further pointing out that Speid Street sees heavy traffic from those trying to bypass Queen Street or visiting nearby institutions such as the curling club, Maxi, the two elementary schools, and the Uplands Museum.

Council members noted that the city-wide Commission on Road Safety had just completed a public consultation phase and is developing a broader policy on reducing speeds to 30 km/h in more residential areas. Although the consultation survey closed on April 27, borough officials said a public presentation of the draft policy would take place this summer.

A second resident raised concerns about delays in spring branch collection, reporting that some piles had been sitting for weeks despite being placed by the roadside. He had contacted city services and was told to cut the branches and bag them, which he said was unfeasible.

Council acknowledged the issue, attributing the delay to poor performance by the borough’s contracted service provider. “There was a big dissatisfaction with the service,” a council member explained, promising that a new contractor would be in place next year.

In other business, the council approved a $500 non-recurring grant to the Lennoxville Curling Club to support a provincial bonspiel for youth 15 and under held in March. The club had submitted its request too late to receive support before the event.

The highlight of the meeting came with the announcement of the 2025 participatory budget winners. This year marked the second edition of the initiative, which invites residents to submit and vote on community projects.

Taking first place was the Lennoxville Farmer’s Market, which will host a Western Festival in June. The Eastern Townships Resource Centre (ETRC) earned second place for its “Lennoxville Makes History” project, and third place went to the Women’s Centre for its intergenerational walking program, “Rollers and Strollers.”

Although both Charron and Councillor Jennifer Garfat disclosed personal connections to two of the winning organizations, they clarified that the selection process was carried out independently by a citizen committee and through public voting. Voting took place both in person at the Amédée-Beaudoin Centre on March 31 and online until April 11.

Winners will be contacted shortly to sign agreements with the borough, and event details will be shared publicly in the coming months.

As the meeting drew to a close, councillors extended thanks to local volunteers in honour of National Volunteer Week and promoted several upcoming events, including:

• The unveiling of the Lennoxville Firefighters Monument on Saturday, May 3 at 10 a.m.
• Bike festival events on May 24 along Samuel-Gratham Street.
• Free bike tune-ups and other activities at Bishop’s University as part of Bike Month.
• The Festival de texte courts (May 22–26) and the Festibière (May 22–24) in Sherbrooke.

Other notices included the Garage 529 bike registry on May 6 at the Massawippi Hall, a Mother’s Day brunch at the ANAF Unit #318 on May 11, and a vernissage at the Uplands Museum on May 4.

The meeting ended with a reminder to consult the City of Sherbrooke website for upcoming public consultations and borough events. The next meeting is scheduled for the last Tuesday of May at 5 p.m.

Team Dandurand
Liberal MP Marianne Dandurand addresses supporters at The Lion in Lennoxville on election night, celebrating her victory in Compton–Stanstead

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Liberal Party of Canada secured a minority government in the April 28 federal election, claiming 169 seats as of 3:30 p.m. on April 29—just three short of the 172 required for a majority. The party captured 43.7 per cent of the popular vote nationwide, while the Conservatives trailed slightly with 41.3 per cent. In the Eastern Townships, Liberals maintained their stronghold, winning three of six ridings and placing a close second in another.

In Sherbrooke, incumbent Élisabeth Brière was re-elected with 51.4 per cent of the vote, comfortably ahead of Bloc Québécois candidate Pierre-Étienne Rouillard (26.6 per cent) and Conservative Esteban Méndez-Hord (13.1 per cent). “This one was very, very special for me,” Brière said in an April 29 interview. “It’s an honour to serve the population of Sherbrooke.” She emphasized housing and affordability as key priorities moving forward, stating, “When you tackle this issue, it’s more than having a roof over your head—it’s about security, access to employment, and health.”

In Compton–Stanstead, Liberal newcomer Marianne Dandurand captured 45.5 per cent of the vote, beating Bloc candidate Nathalie Bresse (26.4 per cent) and Conservative Jacques Painchaud (21.9 per cent). Dandurand, who called the campaign “the most incredible adventure I’ve ever had,” said her win reflects strong local support for the Liberal Party, Mark Carney, and her own ties to former MP Marie-Claude Bibeau. “It’s very humbling and a big sense of responsibility that I have,” she said. She cited agriculture, cell phone connectivity, and the region’s unique Francophone-Anglophone makeup as priorities she will take to Ottawa. “Our region is unique… it needs to be heard in Ottawa.”

Brome–Missisquoi was also retained by the Liberals, with Louis Villeneuve receiving 48.2 per cent of the vote. Bloc candidate Jeff Boudreault followed at 28.2 per cent, with Conservative Steve Charbonneau finishing third at 19.0 per cent.

In Shefford, the Bloc Québécois reclaimed the riding by a razor-thin margin, with Andréanne Larouche receiving 39.8 per cent of the vote—just ahead of Liberal Felix Dionne, who garnered 38.9 per cent. The Conservative candidate, James Seale, trailed with 17.8 per cent. At the time of her interview, Brière said she was “still waiting and pressing my finger for Felix,” noting that Liberals had secured “a strong team in the Eastern Townships” regardless.

Further east, both Mégantic–L’Érable–Lotbinière and Richmond–Arthabaska remained in Conservative hands. In Mégantic–L’Érable–Lotbinière, incumbent Luc Berthold won decisively with 58.7 per cent of the vote, ahead of Liberal Charles Mckaig (21.5 per cent) and Bloc candidate Réjean Hurteau (16.3 per cent). In Richmond–Arthabaska, Eric Lefebvre retained the riding with 35.5 per cent, beating Liberal Alain Saint-Pierre (33.0 per cent) and Bloc candidate Daniel Lebel (27.3 per cent).

Nationally, the Bloc Québécois held 22 seats, the NDP 7, and the Green Party 1. As of the last update, voter turnout stood at 68.22 per cent across Canada, with more than 19.4 million ballots cast. In the Townships, voter turnout ranged between 66.88 per cent and 70.38 per cent.

Brière expressed optimism about interparty cooperation, despite the minority result. “I’m sure we will be able to work in collaboration with the other parties,” she said, adding that many had promised as much during the campaign. Dandurand echoed the sentiment, stating, “We’ve worked with a minority government over the last two mandates. We can do it—but everyone must admit that since last fall, it’s been impossible to work in Parliament. Hopefully, it won’t be like that moving forward.”

Both Liberal MPs signalled that, after a short pause to thank volunteers and remove campaign signage, they plan to get back to work immediately. Dandurand summed up the spirit of the Liberal campaign in the region: “I took nothing for granted. I kept working and meeting with people. It was a privilege.”

Fonds de solidarité FTQ highlights challenges for women

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Fonds de solidarité FTQ hosted a regional meeting in Orford on Monday to spotlight a critical financial issue: the persistent gap between men and women’s retirement savings in Quebec.

According to data shared during the event, women currently retire with an average of 28 per cent less savings than men. The Fonds, which has 800,000 shareholders across Quebec, aims to raise awareness of this disparity through its Economic Training Centre and its network of local representatives, known as RLs, who promote retirement planning across the province.

Patrick McQuilken, spokesperson for the Fonds, explained in an interview that regional meetings are held annually to provide training and encourage exchanges among these representatives. “This year we’re really concentrating on the gap between men and women in retirement savings,” he said, noting the urgency of addressing the almost 28 per cent difference.

Rima Chaaban, Director of the Economic Training Centre at the Fonds de solidarité FTQ, emphasized that the causes of this gap are largely systemic. During a Tuesday interview, she pointed to wage disparities, career interruptions, and caregiving responsibilities as key factors. “There is a salary disparity, which is a systemic problem, not a problem of individual savings,” she said. “Women often have less linear professional paths, including maternity leaves, which not only affect salary directly but also limit their contributions to retirement savings.”

Chaaban added that women tend to retire earlier than men, with an average retirement age of 62 compared to 64.6 for men. This shorter career span, combined with lower average salaries and higher likelihoods of unpaid caregiving roles, compounds the financial shortfall. “Women also live longer, which makes the situation even more challenging,” she said.

Although systemic reforms are beyond the Fonds’ direct mandate, Chaaban stressed the importance of individual financial education as a way to mitigate the effects. “We focus on the factors women can control,” she said. “Preparing a budget, understanding family expenses, and prioritizing automatic payroll deductions for retirement savings are crucial steps.”

She explained that even small contributions matter. “Even $10 or $20 a week can have a significant cumulative impact,” Chaaban said. The Fonds encourages women to set up automatic deductions from their paycheques to build their savings gradually over time.

The Fonds’ education efforts also include encouraging better financial communication within families. “There’s a need for more awareness within couples to ensure that women don’t bear the financial cost of decisions that benefit the whole family,” Chaaban noted.

The Fonds de solidarité FTQ’s broader mission is to promote retirement savings and support economic development through worker investments. Its Economic Training Centre plays a key role in this by providing workshops, developing training materials, and preparing representatives to engage the public on savings strategies.

Chaaban praised initiatives like media coverage for raising public consciousness about these issues. “Talking about it more, observing the gap, raising awareness—that’s how we can start to close it,” she said.

More information about the Fonds de solidarité FTQ’s activities and findings can be found through their official website and linked resources.

Courtesy Brian Wharry

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Firefighters from Stanstead and Stanstead Township crossed the border over the weekend to join American colleagues at the annual Northeast International Mutual Aid (NEIMA) Fire School in Newport, Vermont — an event that highlighted the strength of their unique partnership.

Stanstead Township Battalion Chief Brian Wharry, who attended the event, described it as “an incredible weekend with our friends in Vermont.” Wharry, who participated in the pump operators’ course, said the weekend was filled with valuable tips and tricks on “how to keep the water flowing when you need it.” He added that a friendly competition broke out between the pump operators and the water shuttle team, joking that “[Chief] Chris [Goodsell] and the water shuttle team could not keep up.”

The cross-border training is organized under the NEIMA umbrella, a mutual aid organization that brings together fire departments from both sides of the Quebec–Vermont border. According to Stanstead Battalion Chief Chris Goodsell, who also serves as NEIMA’s secretary, the organization promotes a rare kind of collaboration: “We come and help each other without charging a cent — just a handshake.”

Unlike many mutual aid agreements in Quebec, which are typically based on hourly billing for personnel and equipment, NEIMA’s system is built purely on trust and a modest annual membership fee of $100. “We have our own equipment for our protection, they have theirs, and if something happens, we help each other,” Goodsell explained. “It’s like your neighbour has a lawnmower — you both have one, but if his breaks, you lend him yours.”

Wharry said about 120 participants attended this year’s event, which took place at a vocational training centre in Newport. “They let us use the place for free,” he said, noting the large local support for the volunteer fire departments in the region. Firefighters had the chance to enrol in a range of specialized courses, including pump operations, aerial ladder use, airbag rescue techniques, and more. Goodsell added that the Vermont school offers courses that are difficult to find in Quebec, such as school bus extrication and lithium-ion battery fire response.

That specialized training has already proven invaluable. Goodsell recalled how, less than a year ago, Stanstead responders faced a serious school bus accident on Highway 143. Thanks to earlier training received at NEIMA Fire School, local firefighters knew exactly how to approach the complex rescue. “Several of the firefighters that responded had been trained specifically on cutting apart school buses. It was extremely comforting to know that expertise was there,” he said.

Cross-border collaboration isn’t limited to training. Goodsell said firefighters from Vermont sometimes come north for joint practices, especially in emergencies where time is critical. The Stanstead Station and the Derby Line Station in Vermont, for instance, are only about half a kilometre apart — closer than many Canadian stations are to each other.

The collaboration helps both sides save money and improve service. “If I need a ladder truck for a fire this afternoon, I could wait 35 to 40 minutes for one from Coaticook or Magog,” Goodsell said. “Or I could have two American ladder trucks in Stanstead in about 20 minutes.”

Even with heightened border security in recent years, Goodsell confirmed that firefighters continue to cross the border without issues. “If Derby Line is approaching the border with a ladder truck and red lights on, the border agents know they’re not going shopping at Walmart,” he said. “I’ve never seen an incident where we’ve been delayed because of the border.”

Goodsell acknowledged some friendly jokes about cross-border politics but emphasized that such tensions stay firmly out of the fire service. “I’ve never seen a federal politician show up to help me fight a fire,” he said with a chuckle. “At the end of the day, we’re all there for the same reason — to help when people are having the worst day of their lives.”

Both Wharry and Goodsell praised the NEIMA Fire School for providing not only vital skills but also an opportunity to strengthen the bonds between departments. “It’s a great event and a big part of why we work so well together,” Wharry said.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

In recognition of the National Day of Mourning on April 28, the Commission des normes, de l’équité, de la santé et de la sécurité du travail (CNESST) is calling for collective action to prevent workplace accidents and occupational illnesses. This annual observance, marked in more than 70 countries since 1991, serves as a solemn reminder of the real human costs behind workplace injuries and fatalities.

Speaking with The Record, CNESST communications representative Elyssa Fontaine explained, “The Day of Mourning is the national day of commemoration that aims to pay tribute to the victims of work accidents and professional diseases. We also take this opportunity to remind workers as well as employers of the importance of taking care of health, safety and work in all workplaces.”

This year, the CNESST unveiled its regional and provincial statistics to underscore the importance of prevention. In Estrie alone, 15 people lost their lives in 2024 due to work-related causes: four from workplace accidents and 11 from occupational diseases. Across the region, 5,188 work-related injuries were recorded, including 4,587 workplace accidents and 601 cases of occupational disease.

Fontaine noted, “The cases are related to work accidents directly, and they are also related to professional diseases.” She added that many disease-related deaths stem from older working conditions, mentioning asbestosis and cancer linked to methods used in the “1950s or 60s.”

Province-wide, Quebec reported 107,124 work-related injuries and illnesses in 2024, a decrease of more than 6 per cent from the previous year. However, there was a concerning rise in fatalities, with 246 deaths recorded — 74 from accidents and 172 from occupational diseases. This marks an increase of 36 deaths compared to 2023.

“It’s still a decrease of 191 cases compared to last year, so 3.7 per cent less than last year,” Fontaine said regarding injuries. However, she cautioned against comparing 2023 and 2024 too closely. “With the last few years, with COVID, it has changed the numbers a bit,” she said. “In general, from 2023 to 2024, we’re not sure to look at these two years to have a good comparison.”

Fontaine emphasized that the CNESST is continuing its work to promote collaboration between employers and workers. “We really want to highlight in this Day of Mourning the importance of this collaboration,” she said. “The responsibility, yes to the employer, but also to the workers.”

Jean Boulet, Quebec’s Minister of Labour, issued a statement reaffirming the government’s commitment to strengthening worker protection. “Beyond the numbers lie families, friends, and colleagues who are left behind and deeply affected,” Boulet stated. “Your government is committed to continuing legislative efforts to protect workers and reduce professional injuries.”

Similarly, CNESST Board Chair Louise Otis and President and CEO Anouk Gagné stressed the importance of collective prevention efforts. “Each accident, illness, or death is one too many,” Gagné said. “By joining forces, we can create healthier and safer workplaces.”

In addition to statistical reporting, the CNESST ran a public awareness campaign this month, including videos and mass media advertising, culminating with flags flown at half-mast at the National Assembly and CNESST headquarters on April 28. More information about the Day of Mourning can be found at jourdedeuil.com.

“We want to take the day to really make sure that in the workplaces, the decisions are made in different parts to try to identify these risks and find solutions to eliminate the risk, but if it’s impossible to eliminate it, to at least be able to control it,” Fontaine said.

Courtesy
Representatives from certified centres take part in the Petits ambassadeurs launch in Estrie. From left to right: Michèle Lépine (Installation Cowie), Maryse Lussier (Installation Corbusier), Chantal Girard (Installation Horner), and Myriam Urquizo Grégoire, Executive Director. The centres recently received dual recognition for their commitment to local, sustainable, and educational food practices.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

A new initiative is helping children across the Eastern Townships get a literal taste of their local agricultural landscape. Through a program called Les Petits ambassadeurs, 22 early childhood centres are introducing locally grown food into their menus and engaging children in hands-on agricultural education, thanks to a coordinated effort by the Conseil de l’industrie bioalimentaire de l’Estrie (CIBLE).

The program, which began in Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean, aims to increase the use of local products in public institutions. “They wanted to find a way to have more local produce in places like kindergartens and other institutions,” explained Johanick Riendeau, Executive Director of CIBLE.

Estrie is the 15th region to adopt the initiative. Riendeau originally reported 17 participating centres but clarified in an interview that the number has since grown. “It said 17 kindergartens, but it’s more like 22,” she said. “Out of those 22, we have at least six establishments that are certified right now.”

To become certified, early childhood centres must meet seven out of ten local sourcing targets across categories like vegetables, fruit, dairy and protein. They must also conduct at least two educational activities each year related to food. “You can bring a farmer to your kindergarten, you can go to a farm, you can do a lot of activities,” Riendeau said. “Those two activities are really important for the educational purpose of the children.”

She acknowledged that the concept of “local food” can be abstract to young children, but added, “To know how to grow a tomato or a pumpkin, that’s our goal.”

Riendeau said the program also reaches beyond the children. “The parents are the ones who are doing the groceries, so by teaching the kids, we’re kind of teaching the adults also,” she said.

She praised the dedication of participating centres; especially given the challenges they face. “They work with a lot of budget restrictions,” she said. “It’s way easier to do business with a big supplier like GFS or Sysco than with a lot of small companies. But they believe in buying local and keeping the money in our ecosystem.”

The program is supported by multiple partners, including MAPAQ, the Ministère de l’Habilitation, the regional Table de concertation bioalimentaire (RTCBQ), and several Eastern Townships MRCs. Riendeau described CIBLE’s role as one of coordination. “Our job is to create… we are the glue between all of these participants so that everybody can work together and we can have good results.”

She also highlighted the willingness of farmers to adapt to the needs of childcare institutions. “Sometimes it can be more difficult or need more preparation,” she said. “We’re lucky to have producers that are willing to do that.”

The program isn’t only about nutrition—it’s also about taste and awareness. “What I would like is that [the children] can taste the difference,” Riendeau said. “The biggest comparison I can do is California strawberries versus our strawberries. They’ll taste the difference, and I hope they’ll grow up preferring to eat fresh vegetables.”

She added that the experience could plant a deeper seed. “We might create some dreams for them to have a garden. Maybe they’ll want to work with their hands.”

While most of the current participants are French-language institutions, Riendeau noted that materials are being adapted for broader accessibility. “We work with all the CPEs,” she said. “Right now, our documents, our tools, are being adapted.”

She emphasized that the program’s success depends on the commitment of local educators. “It takes a lot of time… but in every kindergarten there’s almost always a yes,” she said, referring to someone who typically champions the initiative internally. “To be frank, this person is not super well paid. Usually, it’s a woman who is working a lot and needs to be really creative. I would like to thank all of them for their openness and their willingness to make this happen, because it would not be possible without them.”

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

A coalition of feminist and human rights groups is sounding the alarm over Quebec’s Bill 94, warning that the legislation would deepen the exclusion and discrimination faced by Muslim women in the province.

Audrey Gosselin Pellerin, a political feminist organizer with the Réseau des Tables régionales de groupes de femmes du Québec, said in an interview that the bill would have devastating consequences, particularly for Muslim women who wear religious coverings.

“This law, Bill 94, will broaden the scope of discriminatory measures that were already introduced in Bill 21,” Pellerin explained. “We have seen that Muslim women have had to give up their careers, rethink their career path, and live in more economic insecurity because of these laws.”

Bill 94, introduced by Education Minister Bernard Drainville, proposes extending the existing ban on religious symbols to cover not only public-school teachers and authority figures, as Bill 21 did, but also students, parents, all school staff, and anyone working under agreements with educational institutions. The proposed law is facing fierce opposition from over 20 organizations, including the Fédération des femmes du Québec and the Table de concertation des organismes au service des personnes réfugiées et immigrantes.

In an open letter released this week, the groups argue that the government is invoking gender equality as a justification for the bill but is in fact harming the very women it claims to protect. “We reject it because we see it as a form of instrumentalization of feminism,” said Pellerin. “We cannot achieve equality by excluding certain women from the public sphere and the job market.”

She added that the effects of Bill 21, which the new legislation would expand, have been profound and deeply harmful for Muslim women, many of whom report increased isolation, harassment, and intimidation in their workplaces and public spaces. “Their participation in society has decreased because they constantly have to be hypervigilant,” Pellerin said.

A study by Metropolis cited in the open letter found that 64 per cent of Muslim women surveyed said their willingness to participate in Quebec’s social and political life diminished after Bill 21 came into effect in 2019. According to the feminist coalition, Bill 94 risks worsening that exclusion, contrary to the government’s stated goals of promoting harmony and equality.

“What we want, basically, is that women can have access to school and employment without religious conditions and within a framework that respects the rights of all,” Pellerin said.

She warned that Bill 94 would effectively override 38 articles of the Quebec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms, including those guaranteeing equality. “Everybody in Quebec should be worried,” she said. “It shows us that the government knows its bill is not respecting the rights, and it’s still moving forward.”

The open letter also criticizes the legislative process surrounding Bill 94. According to Pellerin, feminist groups critical of Bill 21 and the new bill were not invited to testify before the parliamentary committee studying the legislation. “We believe that’s unacceptable because it’s such a far-reaching decision and there should be a proper consultation,” she said.

The coalition is calling on Drainville to immediately withdraw Bill 94 and repeal Bill 21. They are also urging members of the public who oppose the bill to contact their Members of the National Assembly (MNAs) and submit comments to the parliamentary committee.

Pellerin emphasized that supporting Muslim women means respecting their autonomy to choose whether or not to wear religious symbols. “We support their autonomy and reject any imposition to wear or to remove the veil,” she said.

“Our feminism is one of autonomy, respect, and dignity,” she added.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Quebec Community Groups Network (QCGN) and English-language institutions across Quebec are celebrating a major legal victory after Quebec Superior Court ruled against key elements of the provincial government’s 2023 tuition policy changes.

In a decision rendered by Justice Éric Dufour on April 24, 2025, the court struck down the requirement for out-of-province undergraduate students to achieve an intermediate level of French before graduation, declaring it “unreasonable and invalid.” It also ruled that the sharp tuition hike for out-of-province students was unjustified, giving the government nine months to modify its regulations.

“This is an important ruling on a crucial issue,” said QCGN President Eva Ludvig in an interview Friday. “It confirms our belief that the government acted rashly last fall in first blaming out-of-province students for the decline in French it perceives, and in imposing a discriminatory tuition burden on these students who contribute mightily to Montreal and Quebec, as well as the English-language institutions that are at the heart of our English-speaking community.”

The tuition policy, originally proposing to raise fees for out-of-province undergraduates to $18,000 before lowering the figure to $12,000, faced immediate backlash. “The increase came out of the blue,” Ludvig said, noting that the previous tuition level was comparable to what other provinces charge Quebec students.

Adding to the controversy, Ludvig said the decision to increase tuition was made even before a government-appointed committee had completed its review. “The committee itself said it wasn’t justified,” she said. “There never was any data really presented, and that’s one of the important points the judgment highlights.”

The impact on English-language universities like McGill, Concordia, and Bishop’s was immediate, she explained. “It created a chill in terms of outside students coming to Quebec. It came very close to the time when students and parents are making decisions, and it negatively affected enrollment.”

The court’s decision was welcomed at McGill University, one of the institutions that challenged the government’s measures. In a message to the McGill community, President Deep Saini emphasized that the university remains “firmly committed to playing an essential role in Quebec’s economy, talent pipeline, and research ecosystem.” He added that McGill would work with the provincial government to comply with the court’s ruling, while noting there remains a 30-day window for the government to appeal.

The court maintained a separate government measure concerning international students, allowing Quebec to retain a portion of their tuition, a decision Ludvig said likely reflects the fact that the policy was not directed solely at English-language institutions.

Beyond the immediate legal victory, Ludvig stressed that the ruling sends a broader message about educational policymaking in Quebec. “For years, this government has been scapegoating English-language institutions,” she said, citing not only the universities but also pressures on English-language CEGEPs and elementary and high schools.

She pointed to measures like Bill 40, which abolished elected English school boards, and caps on enrollment in English CEGEPs, as part of a wider trend. “The whole education spectrum serving the English-speaking community has really been under fire,” she said. “You also wonder, because there’s nothing to demonstrate that it’s for educational reasons. It seems to be political decisions made about education.”

The financial and reputational implications of the tuition changes were also a concern. The Montreal Chamber of Commerce, among other organizations, opposed the tuition increases, warning they could harm Montreal’s international reputation as a university city and damage the local economy, small businesses, and tourism.

Ludvig underscored that the now-invalidated French proficiency requirement was another deeply problematic aspect of the government’s plan. “There was no data to show this was necessary,” she said. “It was anecdotal.” She noted that Premier François Legault himself had framed the changes by stating there was “too much English” being spoken in Montreal, a claim Ludvig said lacked evidence and failed to recognize that many students are drawn to Montreal precisely because of its bilingual nature.

While the government has not yet confirmed whether it will appeal the ruling, Ludvig said she hopes it chooses to respect the decision and work collaboratively with universities moving forward. “Appealing it would just delay decisions and cost money for both the universities and taxpayers,” she said.

The legal foundation for the case rested on the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, Ludvig explained, particularly concerning protection against discrimination. The court’s decision, she noted, reinforces that educational policies must be based on evidence and fairness rather than political expediency.

“This was an important decision by the judge, and we applaud it,” Ludvig said. “We hope the government will accept it and not appeal.”

Quebec’s Higher Education Minister Pascale Déry announced on April 24, 2025, that the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) government will, in fact, appeal. Déry defended the measures as necessary to protect the French language and balance university funding, stating the government has 30 days to file the appeal and nine months to revise the fee structure, while the language requirement was immediately voided.

Although Bishop’s was given an exemption from the tuition hikes last fall, it still faced negative impacts from the surrounding controversy. The Record contacted Bishop’s’ Principal & Vice-Chancellor Sébastien Lebel-Grenier for comment on the recent court ruling but did not receive a response before press time.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

At the April 22 public meeting of the Eastern Townships School Board (ETSB), council members received an in-depth overview of Quebec’s new three-step student complaint procedure from Me Jean-François Bernier, the province’s student ombudsperson. The presentation, which opened the meeting, was delivered entirely in French—something Bernier explained was required by provincial law.

The presentation, given on behalf of regional ombudsperson Caroline Audette, was the first annual report under the new system and offered insight into how the revamped complaint process is being implemented across the Appalaches–Cantons region, which includes the ETSB and several other educational institutions.

“This is the first year of the application of the new procedure,” Bernier explained, outlining the step-by-step framework designed to handle complaints in an impartial and structured way.

The process begins at the school level: a student or parent must first address their concerns directly with the involved staff member. If unresolved within 10 working days, the issue moves to the second step—typically a complaints officer designated by the school board—who then has 15 working days to respond in writing. If still unsatisfied, the complaint can be escalated to the regional student ombudsperson.

“This third stage is completely independent,” Bernier emphasized, noting that regional ombudspersons are appointed by the Minister of Education on his recommendation and do not report to school boards. “This ensures not only impartiality but the appearance of impartiality, which is just as important.”

In the Appalaches–Cantons region, 73 complaints were received during the 2023–2024 school year. By June 30, 31 of those had been fully resolved. Bernier clarified that cases are not considered closed until all recommendations have been implemented. Of the completed cases, 41 per cent were found to be well-founded. In total, 64 recommendations were issued, all of which were accepted—either entirely or in part—and fully implemented.

At the ETSB, six complaints were lodged over the year, concerning seven distinct issues. Of these, five were determined to be well-founded. Eight recommendations were issued, and according to Bernier, all were accepted and acted upon. “It’s a good job on your part,” he told the council. “Your collaboration has been excellent.”

Bernier emphasized the importance of delivering decisions in writing during the second step of the process, noting that they must include not only the rationale behind the outcome but also instructions for how to proceed to the third step. “That information is essential for fairness and transparency,” he said.

He also highlighted the legal requirement for school boards to inform students and parents about the complaint process at the start of each school year. To support this, his office distributed visual materials and posters—bilingual and ready for use in student agendas and on school websites. Schools can request more posters or digital slides at any time, he said, by contacting his office.

Bernier concluded the report by noting that governing boards, student committees, and parent groups may request formal advisory opinions from the regional ombudsperson on relevant issues. Two such public opinions have already been published—one regarding schoolyard safety during winter, the other concerning end-of-year exam scheduling.

During the question period that followed, commissioners asked if future reports could include data separating complaints resolved in the current year from those carried over. Bernier agreed it was a worthwhile suggestion.

A further question focused on how to share complaint information with parents when schools no longer distribute printed agendas. Bernier confirmed that digital materials already exist and encouraged schools to contact his office for tailored support.

Another commissioner asked whether the posters distributed to schools were bilingual. Bernier confirmed they were sent in both French and English to all English-language schools in Quebec.

Addressing classroom realities

During public question period, representatives from the teachers’ union expressed concern that class assignments often contradicted the board’s stated goal of following an attachment-based approach to education. They said students were frequently assigned to multiple teachers, even in situations where consistency is known to foster stronger relationships.

The council acknowledged the tension between pedagogical ideals and staffing realities. “The ideal scenario is not always possible,” she said, “but that doesn’t mean teachers can’t build strong relationships in other ways.”

Another question raised the issue of support staff being pulled away from helping struggling students to manage frequent crises elsewhere in the school. “There’s no magic wand,” a council member responded, “but we are focused on prevention and early intervention.”

He added that schools are using a “safe school analysis” process to identify patterns and triggers behind repeated incidents, noting the importance of revisiting plans and involving professionals to support teachers in real time.

Financial and infrastructure updates

The board passed several infrastructure resolutions, including:

• A $463,170 cafeteria renovation at Lennoxville Elementary.
• A $90,946 water distribution repair project in the Alexander Galt boiler room.
• A $1,096,214 parking and drainage project at the same school, funded under maintenance and improvement budgets.

The board also renewed its contract with the National Bank of Canada for banking services through June 2027. Despite higher fees due to recent provincial changes in school financing, commissioners noted that switching providers would create unnecessary disruption.

Celebrating student success

Commissioners took time during the meeting to recognize a range of student accomplishments from across the school board.

At Lennoxville Elementary School, students participated in a week-long celebration of culture from April 7 to 11. The event featured traditional Innu activities, storytelling, and learning experiences focused on intercultural understanding. The initiative was praised for its inclusive atmosphere and hands-on engagement.

At the vocational level, students from a local training centre earned second place in a province-wide butchery competition held in Quebec City. The challenge involved two technical tasks—deboning and presenting a meat cut—with teams evaluated for precision, creativity, and speed. Board members applauded the students’ strong showing in a competition that drew teams from nine centres across the province.

Students at Richmond Regional High School were also recognized for their participation in a regional talent showcase. Contributions ranged from technical support to live performance and animation. The council commended the students for their teamwork and enthusiasm, noting the diversity of roles involved in producing such an event.

“This is what we love to see—students stepping forward, trying something new, and learning in ways that go beyond the classroom,” one commissioner remarked.

The next public meeting of the ETSB Council of Commissioners, which can be attended virtually, is scheduled for May 27.

William Crooks
Attendees of the Uplands annual general meeting pose for a warm group photo inside the historic house, wrapping up an afternoon filled with laughter, conversation, and a shared commitment to the centre’s future

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Uplands Cultural and Heritage Centre held its annual general meeting on April 22, 2025, marking a pivotal moment in its operations as it prepares for a temporary closure beginning in November. While not the anniversary of the centre itself, this year marked the 25th annual meeting of its current incorporated board, formed in 1999—highlighting a quarter-century of community stewardship.

The gathering, held at the Speid Street site in Sherbrooke, struck a cheerful and light-hearted tone. Between official agenda items, attendees shared laughs, swapped stories, and enjoyed “homemade” cake served with coffee and tea. “Nancy baked the cake,” quipped Board President Graham Moodie. “Don’t hurt her feelings—have a slice.”

Local politicians and prospective candidates were also in attendance, mingling with members, volunteers, and representatives from the Lennoxville-Ascot Historical and Museum Society (LAHMS). Moodie welcomed everyone with humour and warmth, noting the continued dedication of those present. “It’s nice to see some new faces,” he said, before joking about bribes for local reporters and the challenges of volunteer coordination. “You’ll want to be here next year when my term expires and they vote me out,” he added with a smile.

Behind the humour, however, was serious business. Beginning in November, Uplands will close to the public for nearly a year to allow for a complete renewal of its permanent exhibit. The centre is scheduled to reopen in fall 2026.

The overhaul is being led by Montréal-based museum design firm Merlicht and supported by a $354,000 grant from the Quebec Ministry of Culture and Communications. The City of Sherbrooke will also restore Uplands’ heritage doors and windows as part of the larger project. Uplands staff are working closely with LAHMS to ensure the reimagined space remains true to the centre’s roots while improving accessibility, modernizing presentation, and increasing engagement.

“We want to keep the spirit of Uplands alive, but make it more vibrant, more welcoming, and more reflective of our community today,” Moodie said.

Executive Director Nancy Robert called it “the biggest transformation in our history,” but emphasized that the goals set out in Uplands’ original letters patent remain unchanged: to share history, art, and tradition. “We’re in the business of happiness—and kindness,” she said. “And in today’s world, we all need more of that.”

The exhibit renewal is expected to better showcase the lives of women and children in Uplands’ history and will include a new educational program tailored to school groups. “It’s a good place to be,” Robert added. “It’s a place full of laughter, of generosity, and of stories.”

While enthusiasm for the future is high, the temporary closure presents challenges—particularly for the centre’s volunteer program. Moodie, who also coordinates volunteers, said the team is already planning ways to maintain engagement through the off-season. “We’ll need to get creative,” he said. “When I post a call for help, I usually get replies within 30 minutes. That kind of commitment is rare.”

Volunteers continue to be a pillar of the organization, with roughly 50 individuals supporting events and activities. “Without them, we’d have a garden full of weeds, white walls in our gallery, no concerts, and no minutes of meetings,” Moodie said.

The 2024 Volunteer Report noted the importance of diversifying the volunteer base. “We need more young people. We need more men,” Moodie said. Still, the devotion of long-time contributors remains a point of pride. Dinah Duffield, who has curated Uplands’ exhibitions for 25 years, was warmly thanked for her voluntary service. “She’s worked with hundreds of artists and hung hundreds of shows,” Robert said. “And she’s still doing it with energy and grace.”

Uplands presented five exhibitions in 2024, hosted 15 outdoor concerts through the Brise Culturelle series, and welcomed nearly 8,000 visitors. The garden also thrived under the care of returning gardener Élise-Anne, with added support from volunteers and town staff.

Financially, Uplands closed the year with a deficit of $35,874. Treasurer Pauline Farrugia explained that the shortfall was manageable and largely offset by a healthy accumulated surplus of $118,794, most of which is already allocated for exhibit renewal and contingency reserves. “We remain in good financial health,” she said.

Total revenues for the year were $427,576, with key support from the City of Sherbrooke (31 per cent), the provincial government (23 per cent), and the popular Tea Tradition experience (19 per cent). Federal youth employment programs, donations, and artisan sales rounded out the funding.

Looking ahead, the centre plans to remain open through the summer with a full slate of activities before closing in the fall. As Nancy Robert said, “We’re ready to welcome people with open arms this summer—tea, laughter, and all.”

The meeting included the reappointment of three board members—Wendy Durrant, Melanie Cutting, and Judy Keenan—ensuring continuity through the renovation period. As attendees left, many lingered to chat and share memories, underscoring the strong sense of community that continues to define Uplands.

“This place is a hidden gem,” Robert said. “It’s tucked behind the trees, but those of us who’ve found it—we know its worth. And that’s why we stay.”

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Ligue des droits et libertés (LDL) is calling for the complete withdrawal of Quebec’s proposed Bill 94, denouncing it as a setback for human rights and the province’s long-standing secular tradition.

Officially titled An Act mainly to strengthen the secular nature of the school network and to amend various legislative provisions, Bill 94 was introduced by the Quebec government to broaden restrictions on the display of religious symbols in the education system. If adopted, it would extend existing bans—first implemented under Bill 21 in 2019—beyond teachers to include other school staff and students, and would impose limitations on the use of languages other than French in educational settings. The legislation also pre-emptively invokes the notwithstanding clause of both the Quebec and Canadian Charters, shielding it from constitutional challenges.

In its presentation at public hearings before the National Assembly’s Commission on Culture and Education on April 22, the LDL argued that the bill is fundamentally incompatible with a respectful and inclusive approach to secularism. “We believe Bill 94 should be withdrawn,” said Laurence Guénette, Coordinator for the LDL, in an interview with The Record. “We are very in favour of the secularism of the state, but this bill does not embody true secularism—it undermines fundamental rights and discriminates against specific groups.”

According to the LDL, secularism should ensure the separation of religion and state while protecting the freedom of belief and expression for everyone. “There is a fundamental confusion between proselytism and the wearing of religious symbols,” Guénette explained. “Wearing a symbol is not an attempt to convert or influence others—it is a personal expression, protected by freedom of religion.”

Guénette noted that state neutrality is not about erasing personal identity, but rather about treating all citizens equally, regardless of belief. “The neutrality of the state must be reflected in its actions, not in the appearance of its employees,” she said. “Whatever they wear does not make them guilty of being non-neutral.”

The LDL’s written submission emphasized that Bill 94 infringes on multiple rights protected by both the Quebec and Canadian Charters—freedom of religion, expression, and association, as well as the right to equality. “The repeated use of these override clauses by the Legault government should worry everyone,” Guénette said. “It sets a dangerous precedent for rights protections in Quebec.”

LDL board member Diane Lamoureux stated in the release that “it is entirely possible to reconcile secularism and human rights, which Bill 94 fails to do,” while Paul-Étienne Rainville, the group’s political spokesperson, said the legislation “represents a rollback of the historic process of secularizing the Quebec state”.

The LDL is especially concerned about the bill’s disproportionate impact on Muslim women. “It expands the discrimination already faced by educators—particularly Muslim women—to other public service roles,” the organization stated. Guénette added that qualified professionals could be driven out of the public education system, worsening an already severe labour shortage. “This bill risks worsening the shortage by driving professionals—many of them women—into the private sector or out of the field entirely,” she said.

The organization also condemned the bill’s limitations on students’ religious expression, particularly around the ability to seek reasonable accommodations. “We are concerned that Bill 94 makes it almost impossible to grant accommodations for religious reasons,” Guénette said. “There are very few cases—perhaps just one or two students wearing full facial coverings—and each should be handled individually, weighing the student’s right to education against institutional concerns.”

The LDL also opposes the bill’s proposed restrictions on the use of languages other than French in the school system. “We want every student to be able to access their right to education,” Guénette said, emphasizing that linguistic restrictions could further marginalize some communities.

Instead of introducing more legislation, the LDL urges the government to enforce existing laws against harassment and proselytism and to conduct a thorough, independent evaluation of the impact of Bill 21, which has been in force for nearly six years. “There’s independent research showing concerning impacts on Muslim women and a rise in Islamophobic incidents, but the government hasn’t done its part,” Guénette said.

She also called for a broader recognition of systemic racism and Islamophobia in Quebec society and concrete actions to address it. “That’s a big shift that we would wish—to change the social climate that’s trending toward more racism.”

In its conclusion, the LDL warns that a government willing to frequently use the notwithstanding clause may erode fundamental democratic protections. “Yes, Muslim women and other minorities are most affected, but when a government uses the notwithstanding clause so frequently and easily, it should concern all of society,” Guénette said.

The LDL maintains that secularism and human rights are not mutually exclusive—but only if secularism is approached in a way that respects diversity and inclusion. As Guénette put it, “Human rights and freedoms should be at the heart of secularism—not sacrificed in its name.”

William Crooks
Workers install the new monument outside the Lennoxville Borough Office in February 2025. The granite structure, designed and fabricated by Rock of Ages in Stanstead, honours generations of volunteer firefighters who served the community from 1883 to 2019.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

A long-awaited tribute to Lennoxville’s former volunteer firefighters will be officially unveiled on Sat., May 3 at 10 a.m. during a public ceremony outside the Lennoxville Borough Office on Queen Street. The monument commemorates more than a century of service by residents who dedicated their time and lives to the community’s safety.

“The volunteer firemen in Lennoxville played such an important role,” said Councillor Jennifer Garfat in a recent interview. “It wasn’t just fighting fires. They gave up time to train, fundraised to buy specialized equipment, and often did all this while holding down other jobs and raising families”.

The project, a collaboration between the City of Sherbrooke and the Lennoxville Volunteer Firefighters Association, has been years in the making. Conversations began in 2018, anticipating the closure of the old Lennoxville fire hall in 2019. Progress was slowed by the pandemic and budgetary constraints, but work continued behind the scenes to bring the vision to life. According to Garfat, former borough director André Blais played a key role in managing the budget, and Paul Chapdelaine, the borough’s former coordinator, also contributed extensively.

Scott Passmore, who began his career as a volunteer firefighter in Lennoxville nearly 30 years ago, was closely involved with the project. “This has been going on since 2018,” he said. “It got through budgeting, through the design phase, and was fabricated by Rock of Ages in Stanstead.” The granite monument, featuring detailed sandblasting and etching, was designed by Lennoxville resident Brian Wilson, who worked closely with the association to ensure the artwork and inscriptions met the wishes of the firefighter community.

The history of Lennoxville’s volunteer fire department dates back to 1883. At the time, townspeople responded to fires with improvised equipment. “There was a big fire in Lennoxville in 1874,” Garfat noted. “Back then, people did the best they could. There was even a fire bell, and Amédée Beaudoin, who lived there, would tell the firefighters where the fire was when they arrived”.

Over the years, Lennoxville’s firefighters were deeply woven into the town’s fabric, not just as emergency responders but as active community members. Passmore recalled that the firefighters’ association built sets for Lennoxville Players, ushered at Centennial Theatre, and ran canteens for local events. They also fundraised for essential equipment, including the town’s first Jaws of Life and parts of the rescue truck, when municipal budgets fell short.

The upcoming ceremony will include speeches from Sherbrooke Mayor Évelyne Beaudin, Borough President Claude Charron, and Passmore. Firefighters will organize coffee and donuts after the event. Families and loved ones of former Lennoxville firefighters are especially encouraged to attend. Those with connections to the individuals commemorated are invited to contact the organizing committee at LennoxvilleFD@gmail.com. “If anybody’s got any sort of connection—grandfather, great-uncle, anything like that—we want them to be part of a VIP group up front when we unveil it,” Passmore explained.

Organizers also stressed that the list of names on the monument is not exhaustive. Due to a lack of archival records from 1874 through the mid-20th century, some firefighters may have been unintentionally left out. Garfat said that former firefighter George Beaulieu and Gerry McNab spent significant time gathering names beginning in 2018, but acknowledged that some were likely missed. “If someone can say, ‘Yes, my relative was a firefighter,’ we can still add names later,” she said. Rock of Ages has agreed to return to sandblast any additions after the unveiling.

“This monument is about collective memory,” said Garfat. “It’s about recognizing the selflessness of those who protected this town for generations.”

The ceremony is open to all, and community members are invited to share in what organizers hope will be a moving tribute to Lennoxville’s firefighting legacy.

William Crooks
A few of the Bazaar’s eclectic vendors pose among their wares—vintage finds, handmade soaps, quirky trinkets, and more—ready to charm browsers and treasure hunters alike in Stanstead’s 10,000-square-foot labyrinth of surprises

New ambulance station, library entrance, and bustling bazaar

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Stanstead is bustling this spring with major developments that highlight the town’s evolving infrastructure, cultural resilience, and community spirit.

On May 2, the public is invited to tour the brand-new ambulance station operated by the Coopérative de travailleurs d’ambulance de l’Estrie (CTAE), located at 25 Notre-Dame West in Stanstead. The facility will host an open house from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., offering residents a chance to explore the premises and meet local paramedics. The station’s inauguration marks a significant upgrade in emergency services for the region. “It’s a great opportunity to meet the paramedics serving your community and tour this brand-new facility,” reads the CTAE’s invitation.

Meanwhile, just a few blocks away, the Haskell Free Library and Opera House continues to draw international attention. Following a recent U.S. government decision to block Canadian access to the historic cross-border building, the library’s Canadian board launched a fundraising campaign to create a new, fully accessible entrance. The campaign, which began on Mar. 20, had raised over $170,000 by the end of the month, far exceeding its $100,000 goal.

“The money’s still coming in,” said Sylvie Boudreau, President of the Haskell’s Canadian board, in an April 19 interview. “We’ll close it at one point, but for now, we’re still getting big amounts.” The new entrance became operational on March 25, and while some finishing touches—like signage and insulation—are still pending, architectural plans are expected within two weeks.

Boudreau emphasized that the response has been deeply emotional. “People are hugging each other. The reaction is like—we are all friends,” she said. Donations have come from around the world, including a $50,000 contribution from Canadian author Louise Penny.

In parallel with these civic developments, Boudreau has also been leading the charge behind the Stanstead Bazaar, located in the former Granite Museum building. Launched just before the pandemic, the bazaar has grown from five vendors to over 40 in under five years. “It’s going to be five years we are open—we’re planning a big celebration this summer,” she said.

Now open Friday to Sunday starting in May, the bazaar offers a mix of antiques, vintage clothing, handmade soaps, jewelry, décor, and even tarot cards. “You can find something from five dollars to five thousand dollars,” Boudreau noted. The location has also added a small bistro offering coffee, pastries, and meals. With 10,000 square feet of items to explore, she advises visitors to “don’t come here if you only have 10 minutes.”

As the town prepares for an influx of visitors—from those curious about the ambulance station to supporters of the library or treasure hunters at the bazaar—one thing is clear: Stanstead is a town on the move, blending historical preservation with new energy.

From emergency services and international solidarity to grassroots entrepreneurship, the community is writing its next chapter—with wide open doors.

William Crooks
Front row, from left to right: Monique Phérivong-Lenoir, president of the Table des MRC de l’Estrie and prefect of the MRC du Granit; Geneviève Hébert, MNA for Saint-François; Marianne Auclair, president of Économie Estrie. Back row, from left to right: Eugène Gagné, mayor of Weedon; Danielle Berthold, Sherbrooke city councillor; Julie Morin, mayor of Lac-Mégantic; Aline Berthe, co-director of the Conseil régional de l’environnement de l’Estrie; Robert Roy, prefect of the Haut-Saint-François; Philippe-David Blanchette, director general of the Table des MRC de l’Estrie.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Five new regional sectoral development agreements totalling $4.6 million were announced Thursday by the Table des MRC de l’Estrie (TME), with representatives from the Quebec government and regional organizations present to highlight what they called a “major step forward” for Estrie’s future.

Unveiled at Sherbrooke’s Quartier général de l’entrepreneuriat, the agreements align with Quebec’s 2025–2029 strategy for regional vitality and will support initiatives in five key areas: economic development, social and community development, transportation, environmental transition, and gender equality.

“These agreements reflect our vision for regional development,” said Saint-François MNA Geneviève Hébert, speaking on behalf of the provincial government. “They show how solutions must come from the ground up and reflect local realities.”

Each agreement is co-funded and co-managed by multiple provincial ministries and regional organizations, with the TME playing a lead coordinating role. Monique Phérivong Lenoir, president of the TME, emphasized that the projects emerged from deep collaboration across all nine MRCs in the region.

“Estrie is a region that knows where it’s going,” said Phérivong Lenoir. “These agreements reflect our ability to unite across mandates and borders to act collectively. Our region is rural and urban, multilingual, diverse, and close to the U.S. border—our challenges are complex, and our solutions must be too.”

Five funding envelopes

The largest envelope, totalling $1.78 million, is for economic development and will be led by Économie Estrie. President Marianne Auclair said four priorities will guide their work: innovation, succession planning for businesses, sustainable practices, and market diversification.

“We’re calling for project submissions now through May 1,” said Auclair. “These are concrete issues our businesses face, and this funding gives us the means to act.”

A second agreement, worth $937,470, targets social and community development, including efforts to fight inequality, food insecurity, and housing challenges. TME Director General Philippe-David Blanchette noted that it comes at a time when “economic situations are particularly difficult in our communities.”

A third agreement will invest $687,493 to improve access to sustainable transportation. “Transportation issues are present across all MRCs,” Blanchette said, noting this is the first time Quebec’s Ministry of Transport has signed on to a regional development agreement of this kind.

A fourth agreement, led by the Conseil régional de l’environnement de l’Estrie, dedicates $831,248 to environmental transition and sustainable forestry, running until the end of 2027. Co-director Aline Berthe said it “reinforces our collective ability to act for more inclusive and resilient communities.”

The final agreement, valued at $440,000, is dedicated to gender equality and is being carried out in partnership with ConcertAction Femmes Estrie. Blanchette said one of the priority issues is domestic violence, “a serious and growing concern in the region.”

A model of collaboration

Throughout the press conference, speakers returned to the same theme: these agreements are not endpoints, but the beginning of a new, collaborative phase of regional development.

“We’re not just signing deals,” said Blanchette. “We’re creating a space where all partners—local, regional, and governmental—can align and work together. The old saying goes, ‘Alone we go faster, together we go farther.’ That’s what these agreements are about.”

The funding stems from Quebec’s Fonds régions et ruralité and involves nearly a dozen ministries. Phérivong Lenoir closed her remarks by thanking those who contributed: “You are the architects of this success. Now we move forward—together.”

William Crooks
Candidates at the April 15 debate in East Angus responded to a series of questions from the public, including concerns about inflation, housing, and food insecurity

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

With just under two weeks until the federal election, five of the six registered candidates in Compton–Stanstead met on April 15 at the community centre in East Angus for a bilingual public debate attended by roughly 50 citizens. Organized by the CDC du Haut-Saint-François and local partners, the evening focused partially on questions from the public, with the New Democratic Party’s Valérie Laliberté absent.

Questions ranged from agriculture and immigration to trade with the U.S., inflation, and housing. Candidates had one minute each to answer, followed by limited open exchanges. Though the atmosphere remained largely respectful, several pointed contrasts emerged between party platforms.

PFAS and fertilizer safety prompt strong reactions

A question about imported biosolid fertilizers and PFAS contaminants (“forever chemicals”) drew detailed responses from all candidates. Liberal candidate Marianne Dandurand said Ottawa was already acting to regulate the full class of PFAS chemicals: “We’re collecting data, financing research, and enforcing specific standards through the Canadian Food Inspection Agency,” she said, adding that the work begun under former Agriculture Minister Marie-Claude Bibeau would continue if she were elected.

Green Party candidate Sébastien Tremblay called for “very severe” Canadian standards that exceed international norms. “We shouldn’t have to justify contaminants in our agriculture,” he said.

Paul Lehmann of the People’s Party of Canada (PPC), citing his background on a fish farm, voiced general support for stricter environmental standards but admitted, “I don’t have much more to add. I’m prepared for the other questions.”

Bloc Québécois candidate Nathalie Bresse argued that the issue isn’t just imports. “Refusing American biosolids while spreading our own is incoherent,” she said. “The real fight is getting PFAS out of our value chain entirely.”

Conservative Jacques Painchaud warned of the long-term risks posed by over 20,000 near-indestructible PFAS compounds. “We need to review importation regulations and fund more research,” he said, calling the situation a “public health concern.”

Immigration divides emerge

On immigration, candidates clashed over governance and social impact. Tremblay stressed that immigration “shouldn’t be a lever to drive wages down” and called for better infrastructure to support integration.

Lehmann of the PPC said Canada should return to a “merit-based” immigration model and criticized what he described as “mass immigration without proper planning,” claiming it strained social services.

Bresse reaffirmed the Bloc’s push for full immigration powers for Quebec, arguing federal policies are too one-size-fits-all. “Temporary immigration exploded under the Liberals,” she added.

Painchaud said Conservative reforms would link immigration levels to local housing and service capacity. “We’ll decentralize processes and invest in credential recognition,” he said.

Dandurand defended the Liberal record: “Immigration is essential to our region’s dynamism,” she said, noting investments in speeding up work permits and supporting municipalities. In response to Bresse’s critique, she pointed out that “Quebec already has the most autonomy on immigration in the country.”

Canada-U.S. relations spark policy contrasts

In discussing trade and tariffs, Tremblay urged local economic resilience. “Let’s invest in infrastructure that helps SMEs (small and medium enterprises) and stop putting agriculture and energy into trade deals,” he said.

Lehmann emphasized eliminating interprovincial trade barriers as a way to offset U.S. tariff pressures. “Let Maxime Bernier negotiate a better deal,” he added.

Bresse argued for a “Buy Canadian Act” modelled on the U.S. version. “We need to fight fire with fire,” she said, adding that Liberal trade deals had “sacrificed” Quebec agriculture.

Painchaud called for renegotiating NAFTA, protecting key sectors like dairy and lumber, and establishing a business stabilization fund to weather trade turbulence.

Dandurand responded that many such measures were “already in place,” citing supply chain investments and interprovincial trade improvements. “With Mark Carney, we have a strong plan for a more resilient economy.”

Housing affordability and cost of living remain top of mind

On inflation, Lehmann linked cost of living to immigration levels, while Bresse highlighted the Bloc’s proposal to increase pensions and reform employment insurance.

Painchaud said the Conservatives would scrap the carbon tax, cut income tax by 15 per cent, and offer targeted aid to food banks. Dandurand emphasized Liberal plans to double housing starts, eliminate GST on first-time home purchases, and expand dental care.

Tremblay advocated taxing large grocery chains and redistributing wealth. “Three companies profited while prices soared. That’s the root of inflation,” he said.

Debate heated up during exchanges. Tremblay questioned how tax cuts would address structural inequality, while Bresse challenged Dandurand on why Quebecers receive no rebate for Ottawa’s carbon tax credits, which don’t apply in Quebec. Dandurand replied that “Quebec runs its own carbon pricing system that already meets federal benchmarks.”

Local housing solutions discussed

The final question focused on social housing. Bresse and Painchaud both pushed for more local autonomy and faster access to funding. Painchaud suggested tying funding to municipal construction targets and repurposing federal properties for housing.

Dandurand countered that “Quebec has withdrawn from leadership” on housing and that Ottawa stepped in with unique agreements tailored to Quebec’s needs. She said $900 million in federal funding had already been transferred and emphasized the importance of continued cooperation.

Tremblay warned against privatization and called for expanded public housing and direct support to low-income renters.

Laliberté absent, crowd engaged

Though NDP candidate Valérie Laliberté did not attend, organizers allowed each present candidate equal time, ensuring a balanced exchange. The debate was the final major public event before the April 28 vote.

With audience members taking photos and applauding key remarks, the event reaffirmed strong local interest in federal issues, even in a riding with a leading candidate projected to win by a wide margin.

William Crooks
Members of Stanstead’s town council gathered at town hall for the regular April 14 meeting

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Stanstead’s April 14 public council meeting was a packed and wide-ranging session that touched on everything from housing density to fire hall construction to the town’s growing national and international profile. Presided over by Mayor Jody Stone at the town hall, the meeting drew approximately 10 residents and was also covered by members of the German press.

A central feature of the meeting was the first question period, where residents raised concerns about infrastructure. One resident asked about upcoming work on Pierce Street and expressed frustration with persistent water issues. “There’s also a water problem on the street. The water is blocked and coming back to Rue Stanley,” he noted. Mayor Stone responded that although some asphalt repairs were planned for this summer, a decision on which streets would be prioritized had not yet been made.

The town’s finances also came under review. The financial report showed a significant increase in expenses, with $274,340.57 in accounts payable—$143,000 of which stemmed from the town’s share of the shared fire service. “More than half of that is the fire department,” explained the mayor. Council later confirmed that a special meeting will be held April 29 to finalize the construction mandate and borrowing bylaw for the town’s new fire station. Stone clarified that although the town must approve the borrowing regulation, the project would be financed by the fire department, not from municipal coffers.

Housing development was another major topic. Council unanimously adopted amendments to the zoning bylaw to increase allowable housing density in certain sectors. “We move from eight to twelve dwellings per building,” the mayor explained, particularly in the Dufferin and Rock Island areas. This shift was made possible by recent upgrades to the town’s wastewater treatment plant, which previously restricted growth.

Another housing-related topic was the town’s lingering non-compliance with a provincial requirement to install 65 water meters for residential monitoring. The meters, which are paid for by the town and not used for billing residents, are required in order to maintain access to provincial grants. “They’re just used for leak detection… we’ll have real-time data,” council explained. Only about 30 meters have been installed so far, though work continues.

Council also approved an $850 budget to participate in the annual Stanstead College alumni golf tournament. While symbolic, the mayor said it contributes to the town’s visibility. “They talk about us during the tournament,” he noted.

Visibility and representation were in fact a major theme throughout the meeting. Mayor Stone received council’s support to submit his candidacy to the board of directors of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM). The council committed to covering his participation costs if he is elected. “With everything that’s going on… I want to go a little higher, to try to send clear messages,” Stone said. “Stanstead is being talked about around the world. Even in China, there are articles.” He added that his candidacy had also received preliminary support from other local mayors.

The topic of Stanstead’s international reputation also came up in the second question period. Stone confirmed that Vermont politicians had recently reached out, hoping to meet with Stanstead council as part of broader cross-border cooperation. “If anything, we can get our relationships with our close neighbours even stronger from this,” he said.

Local revitalization efforts also continued to advance. Council approved a purchase offer of $100,000 for a vacant building on rue Dufferin near the border crossing. The structure is set to be partially demolished, with plans to convert the remaining foundation into a riverfront observation platform. “Personally, I’m ashamed to say that’s the entrance to Canada in that sector,” said Stone. The project has secured $114,000 in funding from the MRC, with the city contributing an additional $75,000.

Other resolutions passed at the meeting included the creation of a “paysage committee,” which will be integrated into the town’s existing urban planning advisory committee (CCU). The measure was required by the MRC to maintain eligibility for certain development grants.

Two infrastructure maintenance contracts were also approved. One will see the aqueduct system flushed twice a year rather than once to improve water quality and transparency. “It’s primarily to make the water quality better and less brown,” said Stone. The other contract extends the town’s road sweeping agreement with Simon-Maurice Inc. for another three years at $8,000 per year, allowing for earlier and more efficient clean-up of the town’s main roads.

Stanstead’s updated action plan for seniors (MADA 2025–2029) was also adopted, with a formal launch planned for May 2 at the Centre d’Action Bénévole. The plan aims to improve inclusion and quality of life for residents aged 50 and up.

Finally, a bylaw amendment to clarify firearms regulations in rural areas was introduced and will return for adoption in May. The proposed change would allow hunters to carry unloaded firearms or crossbows on their backs in public rural areas without triggering unnecessary interventions. “Even if the police hadn’t done it, we just wanted to make sure the wording was correct,” said Stone.

The meeting ended on a lighter note, with one resident thanking council for their bilingual service and community harmony. “Where else do you get that?” he asked. “We always live in harmony with the Americans.”

The next meeting is set for the second Monday of May.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Canadian Association of University Teachers (CAUT) has issued a warning to its 72,000 members to avoid non-essential travel to the United States, citing rising concerns about border scrutiny and political interference in academic work.

In an interview, CAUT Vice-President Robin Whitaker said the advisory stems from a combination of troubling developments — notably, reports of Canadian researchers being subjected to politically charged vetting and the risk of detention or data inspection at U.S. border crossings.

“In our view, unless it’s necessary and essential, [Canadian academic staff] should opt not to travel to the U.S. right now,” Whitaker said, adding that the current climate poses a threat to academic freedom and the confidentiality of research data.

The advisory follows a controversial questionnaire circulated to Canadian researchers whose projects are funded in whole or in part by U.S. federal agencies. The questionnaire, linked to Trump administration policies, asks researchers to affirm that their work excludes references to climate or environmental justice, gender theory, or diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), and that it supports American global influence. It also inquires whether their institutions restrict collaboration with entities deemed “contrary to U.S. government interests,” including “communist, socialist, or totalitarian parties”.

“This is an outrageous attempt to impose political litmus tests on international research,” Whitaker said. “It has already crossed the line into targeting academic freedom across borders.”

According to Whitaker, academics with ties to countries in diplomatic conflict with the U.S., dual citizens, individuals with recent travel to flagged countries, or those with transgender identities are at greater risk of being stopped or questioned at the border. “We’ve heard many stories about people being detained or having their devices searched,” she said. “That raises real concerns — including for researchers like myself who’ve worked on sensitive topics such as abortion access.”

While no recent incidents involving Canadian academics have been made public, Whitaker said CAUT’s guidance is informed by mounting anecdotal reports and the broader climate of repression at U.S. universities. “We’ve seen the Trump administration attacking universities and academic freedom — that reach is now extending, in some cases, right to the border,” she said.

CAUT has not laid out a rigid definition of “essential travel,” choosing instead to leave that decision to individuals. “But if someone came to me saying they’re thinking about attending a conference, I’d tell them to think very carefully,” said Whitaker.

The association is also urging the federal government to intervene, particularly to support Canadian researchers who might face funding disruptions due to U.S. policy changes. “We need a made-in-Canada solution,” CAUT Executive Director David Robinson said in a previous statement. “Ottawa must step up to ensure the vital research that is being threatened by the U.S. is properly funded and supported”.

Whitaker noted that while some U.S. university leaders have taken a stand against government overreach, the overall situation remains “not good for any of us.” She stressed the potential for wide-reaching consequences beyond the academic world. “This doesn’t just affect university researchers,” she said. “It might affect anyone hoping for the best possible flu vaccine next year if the U.S. pulls out of multinational collaborations.”

CAUT’s full travel advisory and related statements are available on its website.

Courtesy
Mateo Jarquin stands in his home workshop on Apr. 14 with the latest version of his self-built robotic hand, the F.L.E.X., which recently earned him first place at the provincial Super Expo-Sciences Hydro-Québec

Lennoxville student wows science fair with self-made invention

By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative

A Lennoxville student has captured the top prize at the Quebec final of the Super Expo-Sciences Hydro-Québec with a robotic invention that may one day help defuse bombs, repair spacecraft, or bring surgery to remote areas.

Champlain College Lennoxville student Mateo Jarquin earned the highest distinction from judges at the provincial-level competition for his “F.L.E.X.” project—short for “Fully Leveraged EXO Hand.” The device is a 3D-printed robotic hand that mimics real human hand movements in real time, using just a camera and Wi-Fi connection.

“It’s able to detect your joints and fingertips, calculate the distance between them, and translate that into motor movement,” said Jarquin. “The robotic hand copies what you do with very little delay”.

The win secures Jarquin a spot on Team Quebec at the national Canada-Wide Science Fair, which will take place in Fredericton from May 31 to June 7. He also received a $1,500 scholarship, a trophy, and a trip for two to James Bay. In addition, he won a gold medal in the college category from the Réseau Technoscience and the Université du Québec Relève scientifique scholarship, which covers full tuition for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral studies within the university network.

Jarquin, who was born in Sherbrooke and studied at SES, Alexander Galt, and now Champlain College, is currently enrolled in a general science program. He first presented a prototype of the robotic hand two years ago but was unsatisfied with its limitations.

“This new version has metal-gear servos, better software, and improved materials,” he explained. “The outside is printed using a strong CTG filament, while the inside uses TPU, a flexible plastic that allows the fingers to actually bend like a human hand”.

The system works by placing a camera near a user’s hand—either mounted on a stationary stand or worn on the shoulder by a small robot companion Jarquin calls “Pico.” The camera tracks the hand movements, and software calculates the angles of each finger joint before transmitting the data to motors inside the robotic hand, which replicates the motions almost instantaneously.

“It can use a camera from virtually anywhere as long as it has Wi-Fi,” he said. “That’s what makes it different from the older version”.

The project has clear practical potential. “I think it could be used in bomb disposal, space repairs, or even remote surgeries,” said Jarquin. “Places that don’t have access to surgeons could benefit from something like this”.

Jarquin’s passion for robotics is mostly self-taught. “I learned Python through online tutorials, but I quickly realized there wasn’t a tutorial for a project like this. I had to figure it out myself,” he said. “I bought a 3D printer to make this happen. I love taking an idea and turning it into something real”.

He sees his journey so far as transformative. “The Science Fair changed my life,” he said. “Not just because of the awards, but because I met friends and future collaborators. It’s really encouraging.”

Looking forward, Jarquin plans to continue developing his current project but also wants to expand into broader areas of robotics. “Hands-free tech has applications in all domains of science,” he said.

In the meantime, he continues to share his research and technical experiments with the public on his YouTube channel. As the national finals approach, Jarquin is excited to represent Quebec on the Canadian stage—and to keep dreaming big.

“I can’t wait,” he said. “It’s just the beginning.”

William Crooks
Some of the speakers and performers at the April 15 press conference celebrating the Fondation de l’Hôpital de Memphrémagog’s 40th anniversary and launching its 2025 fundraising campaign

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Fondation de l’Hôpital de Memphrémagog officially launched its 2025 fundraising season with a festive press conference on April 15 at Les Enfants Terribles restaurant in Magog, unveiling a full slate of events to mark its 40th anniversary.

Hosted by Jean Delisle, secretary of the board, the event brought together foundation members, volunteers, partners, and supporters to celebrate four decades of community support and to present the year’s programming. “We want to improve what’s happening in our territory,” Delisle said, noting the work of a small but dedicated team of four staff, bolstered by committed volunteers.

The president of the foundation’s board, Charles-Alexandre Pelletier, thanked donors and partners and praised executive director Suzanne-Marie Landry for organizing the event. “It’s been 40 years that the foundation has been helping health care services in the region. Thank you all for being here,” he said.

Dr. Stéphane Tremblay, general director of the regional university health authority and a longtime supporter of the foundation, highlighted the importance of its role in the health network. “Being healthy doesn’t only mean needing surgery or accommodation. It’s about being able to live fully,” he said. Tremblay also praised the foundation’s broader social impact, saying it creates a sense of pride and cohesion in the region.

Suzanne-Marie Landry then unveiled the foundation’s anniversary programming, starting with “La Dolce Vita,” a three-course Italian dinner cruise featuring singer Marco Calliari, to be held on May 21 aboard the Grand Cru. “It’s really a one-of-a-kind experience,” Landry said. Tickets are $200, with a $58 tax receipt included.

The event is chaired by Claudia Lord of the Groupe financier Héritage, who said she is proud to support the hospital and help ensure that quality care remains accessible close to home. “I come to the hospital at 4 a.m. with my kids. That’s why I care,” Lord said.

Calliari, known for his lively Italian music, offered a preview of the evening’s entertainment with an impromptu performance. He encouraged everyone to “learn some Neapolitan” before the cruise and promised a festive atmosphere filled with music and audience participation.

The foundation’s traditional Classique de golf, paused during the pandemic, is returning on June 5 at the Club de golf Venise. The event is chaired by Gilles Pouliot, former foundation president and this year’s honorary president, and co-hosted by vice-president Patrice Lamoureux. “It’s more than a tournament—it’s a celebration of health, the outdoors, and solidarity,” Pouliot said. Highlights include a $40,000 hole-in-one prize sponsored by RBC. A post-game dinner will also be served.

On August 28, the foundation will host a special anniversary evening at the Théâtre Magog featuring Juno-winning blues and jazz artist Dawn Tyler Watson. Attendees will be treated to archival footage, tributes to the foundation’s pioneers, and live music. “We want to remember how far we’ve come and celebrate those who’ve made it possible,” Landry said. Tickets are $40.

A fourth event will take place on Oct. 16 with a free motivational talk by Paralympian Lyne Tremblay, titled Croire en ses rêves et les réaliser! Une fabuleuse odyssée!. Tremblay, who gave a moving speech at the press conference, likened the foundation’s work to a strong and expansive base supporting a high-performance hospital. “Aiding the foundation is like giving our health system a breath of fresh air,” she said.

The calendar culminates in the Souper-spectacle de Noël Desjardins, scheduled for November 28 at the Hôtel Chéribourg in Orford. The evening will feature a holiday market, performances by Magog-born singer Carole Vincelette and the band Shine, and a silent auction including two tickets for a southern destination offered by Air Canada. Tickets are $150 per person. Desjardins is the event’s title sponsor, and general manager Sylvie Marcotte spoke proudly of her team’s long-standing support: “It’s a ruby anniversary—40 years of helping the foundation make a difference,” she said.

Throughout the conference, speakers emphasized that the foundation’s impact goes far beyond equipment or buildings. “You’ve helped us improve both physical and mental health services in the region,” said Tremblay. “That’s the greatest gift you’ve given our community”.

Courtesy
From left to right: Andrew Phaneuf, Johanne Fradette, William Marsden, Paul-C Carignan, Brian Wharry, Constance Ramacieri, and mayor Pierre Martineau at the Christmas seniors’ meal organized in partnership with CAB Stanstead

By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative

Stanstead Township’s annual Easter meal for seniors, organized in collaboration with the C.A.B. of Stanstead, is officially at capacity, with 44 participants expected at the town hall on April 17. The free event, which was promoted through the municipality’s Friday info letters and website, was designed to bring together local seniors for a festive and hearty noon-time gathering.

Kimberley Whitworth, who coordinated the event on behalf of the municipality, confirmed that registration is closed. “I gave the final numbers to C.A.B. on Thursday,” she said. “I’m actually waiting to hear if I can squeeze in three more people, but right now we’re full.” She noted that a few signups arrived after the deadline due to technical issues, but the overall response has been enthusiastic.

The meal itself will be delivered by C.A.B. and served in the town hall at 778 Sheldon Road. It includes ham with pineapple sauce, coleslaw, a vegetable side, and Texan-style breakfast potatoes with cheese. Dessert will feature maple syrup, and Whitworth is adding homemade devilled eggs, sliced cheeses, vegetables with dip, hummus, and cake slices. Guests will also enjoy coffee, tea, punch, and a few Easter-themed decorations to set the scene.

The gathering, scheduled to begin at 11:30 a.m., is more than just a meal. “It’s about community,” Whitworth explained. “The councillors help serve, and it gives seniors a chance to connect with each other and with their municipal representatives.” Five of the seven councillors, including the mayor, are expected to be present to assist.

During the meal, Whitworth will deliver a short talk about MADA (Municipalité amie des aînés), a province-wide initiative to foster age-friendly communities. “It’s a project we’re working on, and with everyone sitting together, it’s a great time to share information.”

The event will also include a draw for prizes donated by local merchants. “We’ll be pulling names out of a hat,” she said. Prizes include three hams from Dépanneur Marché de la Baie, free meal tickets for future C.A.B. deliveries, and tickets to a local $15 soup lunch.

The Easter event builds on the success of a similar Christmas gathering hosted last December, which drew 35 seniors. “The councillors really enjoyed it and asked me to do it again,” Whitworth said. “So here we are.”

Whitworth confirmed that although this Easter event is full, future events are in the works. “We’ll likely do something for Thanksgiving and definitely Christmas again,” she said. “We go according to what meals C.A.B. is offering at the time.”

In the meantime, she encouraged residents to watch for updates on the town’s website and info letters, adding that registration typically opens three to four weeks in advance. “People mean to sign up, but then life gets busy. I try to give them as much time as possible.”

While most attendees are from Stanstead Township, a handful from neighbouring areas have also signed up, paying a small fee to cover the cost of their meals. “It’s really about bringing people together,” Whitworth said. “That’s what matters most.”

William Crooks
Antoine S. Petit, head of Sherbrooke’s public works and construction division, stands in front of a municipal work truck at the city garage following a press conference outlining plans for the 2025 spring cleanup

Spring cleanup kicks off April 22 in Sherbrooke

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The City of Sherbrooke’s annual spring cleanup operation will begin on Tuesday, April 22, with mechanical sweepers covering streets, sidewalks and bike paths across the city. Residents are asked to rake their lawns and clear debris from the street edge over the weekend to help ensure smooth progress when municipal crews arrive.

“This is a major operation that takes several weeks,” said Antoine S. Petit, head of the City’s public works and construction division, during a press conference held Monday at the municipal garage. “We really need residents to collaborate—especially by removing their cars and bins on their designated cleaning day”.

This year’s campaign, which costs roughly $2 million, will start in the Fleurimont borough and unfold in three phases: preparatory work (already underway), sweeping of streets and sidewalks, and finally, cleaning of municipal parking lots. The entire process is expected to last about six weeks, with street cleaning alone taking around four weeks to complete.

“We alternate the starting location each year,” explained Petit. “This time we’re beginning in Fleurimont, but the schedule is built to minimize disruption. Arterial roads are usually cleaned at night to reduce noise, while local streets are done during the day”.

The City will use both municipal employees and contractors for the work. A fleet of sweepers has already been deployed downtown and on bike paths as part of the preparatory phase. Petit noted that this early work also allows the City to test equipment and train personnel before moving into full operations.

One important date to note: Parc Jacques-Cartier will be closed for 24 hours on Wednesday, April 23 to allow for thorough cleaning. A reminder will be sent to residents in advance, but that date may shift if weather conditions interfere.

Spring cleanup efforts were delayed slightly this year due to a harsher-than-usual winter. “We used more abrasives than normal,” Petit said. “There’s visibly more gravel and debris than last year. That’s why it’s especially important that residents rake their lawns and avoid pushing rocks into the street”.

Last year, around 3,000 sections had to be re-swept due to residents failing to move cars or bins, which slowed progress and increased costs. “These aren’t ‘bad behaviours’—just a lack of awareness. But every time we need to redo a street, it delays the whole operation and frustrates everyone involved,” Petit said.

To help prevent such setbacks this year, Sherbrooke residents are encouraged to:

• Avoid blocking streets with vehicles or collection bins on cleaning days;
• Clear lawns of debris early;
• Avoid creating piles of rocks in the street or placing sand and gravel in waste bins.

Real-time updates will be available through the City’s interactive online map and by signing up for alerts through the “Mon Sherbrooke” portal. Residents can also register online for bulky waste pickup as part of a parallel service: sherbrooke.ca/nettoyage.

Collected grit will be tested for contamination and either recycled, treated, or disposed of depending on the results. “It becomes a residual material under environmental regulations,” Petit explained. “So, we treat it accordingly”.

The city expects the cleanup to wrap up around June 1, though that timeline depends heavily on weather. “Rain and freezing temperatures can definitely slow things down,” said Petit. “But if we all work together, we can make it smooth and efficient.”

Liberal lead holds as campaign heats up with debates

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

With the April 28 federal general election quickly approaching, the campaign in Compton–Stanstead is gathering momentum. Liberal candidate Marianne Dandurand holds a commanding lead in the riding according to the latest 338Canada projection, published April 11, which places her at 50 per cent ± 8 per cent—a full 30 points ahead of the next contenders. The Bloc Québécois and Conservatives are tied at 20 per cent, with the Greens at 4 per cent, the NDP at 3 per cent, and the PPC at 2 per cent.

The race to succeed outgoing Liberal MP Marie-Claude Bibeau features six main officially registered candidates. The Record contacted all six to conduct structured interviews. Five responded. Conservative candidate Jacques Painchaud did not reply to four different attempts by Friday’s deadline.

First debate draws a crowd

The first candidate debate took place on April 7 at the Pavillon des arts et de la culture in Coaticook, drawing nearly 150 attendees, according to a press release. Organized by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Coaticook Region (CCIRC), CIGN FM radio, the CDC of the MRC de Coaticook, and Le Progrès de Coaticook, the event was hailed as a success by its organizers.

Present for the Coaticook debate were Marianne Dandurand (Liberal), Nathalie Bresse (Bloc Québécois), Jacques Painchaud (Conservative), and Sébastien Tremblay (Green). Valérie Laliberté (NDP) and Paul Lehmann (PPC) were absent. The debate covered trade relations with the U.S., supply management, rural housing, climate change resilience, cell service coverage, and the federal deficit.

Another debate is scheduled for April 15 at 6 p.m. in East Angus, offering what may be the last public exchange among the candidates before election day.

Paul Lehmann (PPC): “Freedom is the core of democracy”

Representing the People’s Party of Canada, Paul Lehmann is a Lennoxville-raised entrepreneur with deep roots in the Eastern Townships. After arriving in Sherbrooke for speed skating in the 1990s, he studied at Champlain and Bishop’s, eventually settling here to raise his family.

“I talk politics all the time. At some point, you have to stop talking and act,” he said. “The PPC’s 21-point platform matched what I’ve been thinking.”

His main focus is freedom of expression. “We’re in a time where people want to decide what we can or can’t read. That’s dangerous. I’ll censor myself, thank you,” he said.

Lehmann also drew connections between immigration, housing affordability, and strained social systems. “Mass immigration without proper planning is hurting us. We’re seeing food banks serve seniors who can’t make ends meet, while others game the refugee system with help from consultants.”

He emphasized support for small farms and rural food sovereignty. “I grew up on a fish farm. We lost everything to NAFTA. I understand why farmers are nervous about trade deals.” He believes Canadian agriculture needs better protection and pointed to his own experience with aquaculture regulation and international competition.

Though PPC leader Maxime Bernier opposes supply management, Lehmann says he would advocate for regional needs. “I want to thread the needle. Our small farmers are the heartbeat of this riding.”

Marianne Dandurand (Liberal): “We need strong regional voices at the table”

Liberal frontrunner Marianne Dandurand is a former journalist and longtime political advisor to current MP Marie-Claude Bibeau. Born in Bonsecours and now living in Sherbrooke, Dandurand has worked in regional tourism, agritourism, communications, and market research.

“I love this region. I know the issues. I’ve seen them up close from Ottawa and from home,” she said.

Dandurand’s campaign emphasizes protecting agriculture, improving rural infrastructure, and maintaining strong cross-border relationships. “We’re not immune to what’s happening in the U.S.,” she said. “We have to be ready, especially when it comes to tariffs and trade.”

She supports cell service expansion and says fibre optic coverage, while improving, still misses some corners of the riding. “Let’s bring the province, Ottawa, and municipalities together and actually fix this,” she said.

On supply management, she’s unequivocal. “It’s critical to our farms and our food system. I worked on this with Bibeau, and I’ll continue the work.”

Dandurand said her experience in Agriculture Canada has given her a detailed understanding of how Ottawa works and how federal programs can either help or hinder local economies. She emphasized the need for policies that reflect regional realities, not just national averages.

She pledged to maintain an office in Lennoxville if elected, calling it the most central and practical location for constituents. “Even if I’m not elected, I’ll still be working to support projects I’ve seen across the riding.”

Sébastien Tremblay (Green): “Let’s get ahead of the climate curve”

Green Party candidate Sébastien Tremblay is a teacher in Magog who lives in western Sherbrooke. A longtime party volunteer, he stepped in to run when no other local candidate came forward.

“I’ve worked on campaigns before. This time, I’m the one wearing the button,” he said.

His priorities include mental health care for adolescents, housing accessibility, water protection, and climate resilience. “One in seven teens needs support. We need more services, and they need to be free,” he said.

Tremblay emphasized that Compton–Stanstead’s mixed urban-rural character makes it a test case for progressive policy. “We have a lot of variety in this riding. The Green Party’s platform is flexible enough to support everyone from Coaticook to western Sherbrooke.”

He noted his personal connection to environmental issues through fishing and local water sources. “Lake Memphremagog is vulnerable. Zebra mussels are already showing up in Massawippi. This is serious. Ottawa needs to be proactive.”

He added that Greens want decision-making power decentralized to communities. “The people closest to the issues should be the ones shaping the solutions,” he said.

Valérie Laliberté (NDP): “The cost of living is what people talk to me about”

NDP candidate Valérie Laliberté has served as a political assistant in Compton–Stanstead and Sherbrooke, and worked for the federal government in service delivery.

“I’m not here with an agenda. I’m here to listen,” she said.

Laliberté said the main concern she hears from voters is affordability. “People are stretched thin. Groceries, housing, everything. We need to make life livable again,” she said.

She praised the NDP’s role in the creation of the national dental plan. “We’ve been pushing for that for years. It’s finally happening. That’s the kind of difference we can make.”

Although she missed the April 7 debate, Laliberté emphasized that she has a long-standing connection to the region, having gone to primary school in Compton and worked in several local municipal offices.

She said she would prioritize transparency and public accessibility. “I’ll be available. I’ll go door to door, I’ll hold small community meetings. I’ll respond,” she said. She added that balancing her campaign and parenting two young children has been a challenge, but also keeps her grounded.

Nathalie Bresse (Bloc Québécois): “We protect what’s ours”

Bloc Québécois candidate Nathalie Bresse is a longtime mayor of Ascot Corner and a well-known figure in local governance. At the Coaticook debate, she strongly defended Quebec’s agricultural model and the need for Ottawa to respect provincial jurisdiction.

“Supply management is not negotiable. It’s not just for farmers. It keeps prices stable for families,” she said.

Bresse said she was drawn to the Bloc because it reflects her values. “Whether it’s Liberals or Conservatives in power, the Bloc is there to ensure Quebec doesn’t lose out.”

She raised issues of cell service and rural transport at the debate, criticizing what she called “urban-centred” federal policies. “Montreal MPs aren’t talking about Compton–Stanstead’s cellphone coverage. But I am.”

She promised to remain visible and present. “People here know me. I’ve been at every carnival, every fundraiser. You’ll see my face.”

Jacques Painchaud (Conservative): present at the debate, silent elsewhere

Although Conservative candidate Jacques Painchaud participated in the April 7 debate in Coaticook, he has yet to make himself available for interviews or respond to The Record’s requests. At the debate, he echoed party themes of economic restraint, cutting the federal deficit, and reducing bureaucracy. However, his platform remains largely undefined in local media.

With the East Angus debate looming, voters may get another chance to hear directly from him.

Looking ahead

In a riding where political momentum is often determined by local presence, strong debate performances and community engagement can matter. But with the Liberals holding a 30-point lead, it’s an uphill battle for challengers.

The April 7 debate showed that residents are engaged: nearly 150 turned out to hear about trade, tariffs, cell service, and climate change. Organizers have urged all citizens to participate. “Here, men and women can vote without fear or judgement,” said Vicky Désorcy, chair of the CIRCC board, in the release. “Let’s take advantage of that right.”

For Compton–Stanstead, the coming days will be decisive—not just in terms of who wins, but how deeply candidates can connect with the people they hope to represent.

William Crooks
Emily Côté of Townshippers’ Association shares a laugh with Université de Sherbrooke medical students at the snack table during the Family Day event held at Sherbrooke Elementary on Apr. 12. The group helped organize the half-day gathering as part of a leadership program connecting future doctors with local English-speaking communities.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Families gathered at Sherbrooke Elementary School on Sat., Apr. 12 for a festive morning of games, gifts and grassroots networking as part of Family Day, a half-day event organized by Townshippers’ Association and Université de Sherbrooke leadership students. The initiative aimed to connect English-speaking families in the area with local community services—and each other.

The event ran from 8 a.m. to noon and was tailored specifically to families with children aged 2 to 12. Children received free gifts, participated in arts and sports activities, and snacked on treats provided by organizers. But the focus went well beyond fun: it was also about forging community ties and raising awareness about English-language services in Sherbrooke.

“We know that English-speaking families often feel isolated or unaware of what resources are available to them,” said Emily Côté, a Townshippers’ program manager who spearheaded the event. “Many organizations offer services in English but have websites only in French. We wanted this to be a space where people could connect, ask questions, and feel less alone”.

In total, 11 organizations took part, offering information on everything from senior care and tenants’ rights to arts programming and youth support. The event was also an opportunity for the medical students involved to learn more about the community they may eventually serve as physicians. “The leadership program is about making future doctors more familiar with local resources,” Côté explained. “It helps them connect with the people they’ll work with and not just see themselves as people who know ‘just medical stuff’”.

One of the participating groups was CAAP Estrie (Centre d’Assistance et d’Accompagnement aux Plaintes), represented by Assistant Director Angela Moore. “We’re here to help people who want to make complaints about health and social services,” Moore said. “The health system can be hard to navigate, especially when something goes wrong, and we want people to know they’re not alone”.

Moore said CAAP also works with families supporting seniors in residences. One emerging issue they often see involves lease renewals for seniors. “Some residents don’t fully understand their rights when it comes time to renew, and that’s where we come in—to help people be informed and empowered to make enlightened decisions,” she said.

Other community partners included the Lennoxville Library, EspaceM, Bulles et Baluchon, L’Action Plus de l’Estrie, the Lennoxville & District Women’s Centre, Parents-Secours Sherbrooke, Carrefour jeunesse emploi, and the CIUSSS de l’Estrie-CHUS, among others. Tables were set up to share pamphlets, answer questions, and invite families to upcoming programs or services.

The Lennoxville Library’s Christian Collins and Carlaine Mboula staffed a double table, offering information about literacy resources. Nearby, Bulles et Baluchon representatives Jacynthe Samson and May Anne Lamoureux Bélanger were also on hand to speak about their programming for families. Groups such as CAPACOA Estrie, Projet Chrysalide, Action Saint-François, and the Grande Table also had a presence, sharing tools with families on issues ranging from food security to environmental action.

Though the primary audience was English-speaking families, the event was inclusive of anyone who wished to attend. Hosting it at Sherbrooke Elementary made sense, Côté explained, because “it’s a space already geared toward children and families, and it was available to us at a reasonable rate as a community event”.

The event received a warm reception from attendees, with children darting between activities while parents paused to chat with organization reps or fellow families. There was even a surprise guest—an audiologist from the CIUSSS team that Côté hadn’t expected—highlighting the community spirit of the day.

Asked whether the event might become a regular occurrence, Côté was hopeful. “There’s clearly a need for these kinds of events. People want to feel connected, and we’d love to do more of this,” she said.

For now, the organizers are grateful for a sunny Saturday morning that brought together dozens of families, and for the opportunity to reinforce the message that English-speaking residents of Sherbrooke are not alone—and that resources are out there if you know where to look.

U.S. trade war with China risks global fallout, says McGill economist

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The escalating U.S.-China trade war is shaking the global economy—and Canada may find itself caught in the middle, according to Julian Karaguesian, a faculty lecturer in McGill’s Department of Economics and former senior advisor with the federal Ministry of Finance. With over two decades of experience in international trade and finance, including postings in Berlin and Washington, Karaguesian warns the current trade tensions are anything but ordinary.

He characterized the United States’ current strategy toward China as a combination of irrationality, deliberate realignment, and tactical pressure. “It’s part mad king, part I want to realign the global trade system, and part negotiations,” he said. The tariffs now in place—as high as 125 per cent on some imports—have made trade between the two economic giants prohibitively expensive. While U.S.-China trade totals roughly $600 to $650 billion, the impact of these policies is far more widespread. These two nations are embedded in hundreds of global supply chains, he explained, and placing barriers between them disrupts far more than direct imports and exports.

To illustrate the complexity, Karaguesian pointed to Apple’s international operations, where design, marketing, and component production span over 30 countries, with final assembly taking place in China. “It’s assembled there, and then it’s ferreted around the world,” he said. Tariffs, in his view, are “like an earthquake under the global supply chain.”

He argued that the current protectionist wave did not originate with Trump. “The border with the United States has been thickening since 9/11,” he said, referencing shifts under George W. Bush, Barack Obama’s Buy American measures, and the quiet but firm protectionism under Joe Biden. Trump’s approach, he suggested, simply made the underlying trend more extreme. “He’s using a blunt kind of hammer-like policy instrument.”

Karaguesian believes Trump genuinely wants to bring jobs and industries back to the United States but doubts the practicality. “To do what China does, you need a physically fit and mentally fit workforce,” he said. “The old notion of China is an anachronism… they’re not making cheap stuff in sweatshops anymore.”

He recalled seeing China’s high-speed train system in action: “They’ll get you from Beijing to Shanghai—1,500 kilometres—in four hours on the latest rail technology.”

Karaguesian sees Trump’s populist economic message as a reaction to the fallout from deindustrialization in the U.S. and Canada. “The lie that was told by Clinton and Blair was that these were unskilled jobs,” he said. “Of course, they’re very skilled. I’ve been in factories, I’ve seen how skilled the workers are.” Once lost, he warned, that knowledge doesn’t return.

He linked the decline of manufacturing directly to the opioid crisis in the U.S. “If you look at a map of the Rust Belt and a map of the epicentres of the opioid crisis, they overlap almost totally,” he said. For years, he argued, cheap credit obscured the damage. “Everybody could get a car, a credit card, a college loan.” But that illusion collapsed with the 2008 financial crisis.

In the wake of that collapse, populist movements emerged, and Trump, Karaguesian said, tapped into the resentment. “He says, ‘I’ll be your Captain Ahab. I’ll be the eye of your reach. We’re going to go and hunt Moby Dick—the establishment.’”

Canada, he noted, has become entangled in the consequences of American trade policy. When the U.S. announced 100 per cent tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles last October, Canada quickly issued a similar measure, even though it didn’t import any Chinese EVs at the time. “It was the colonial master giving the order and the vassal state complying,” he said.

China initially held back, but after Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly floated aligning Canadian tariffs with the U.S., the response was swift. “The next day, China put tariffs on our agricultural products,” Karaguesian said. “They’ve told us—politely but clearly—that if we keep following the Americans, they can hit us with a lot more.”

He sees serious risk for Canadian farmers, particularly small family operations in places like the Eastern Townships. But he also sees an opening. If Canada negotiated independently with China, perhaps limiting EV imports or establishing quotas, “they would take their tariffs off our foodstuffs immediately.”

Karaguesian described test-driving a Chinese EV in Paris that left a strong impression. “I liked it better than a Tesla,” he said. “It felt substantial… and they can put one on our roads for $15,000.”

He also noted that China has indirectly offered new markets for Canadian produce. “They’ve told us that you can export more fruit to Australia if you want. We’ll take as much as you have.”

Closer to home, he believes Quebec is well-positioned to weather the tensions. “Why go down to New Hampshire when you can stay here?” he said. “There’s a lot of locally made products, local travel. I think that’ll be a big boon.”

He added that Quebec is less reliant on trade with the U.S. than Ontario, and its major exports—electricity, foodstuffs, and aluminum—are harder for the U.S. to replace. “Sixty per cent of American aluminum imports come from Quebec,” he said. “They don’t have any local aluminum.”

By contrast, Ontario has already seen its auto production fall from three million to 1.3 million vehicles per year. “The Trump people want the entire American auto sector in America,” Karaguesian warned.

While he believes some tariffs—especially on aluminum and automobiles—might eventually be reduced, he sees larger risks looming. “If this trade war with China escalates, it’s going to lead to a global recession,” he said. “And it could re-ignite inflation. All these tariffs are going to drive up prices.”

Canada, he concluded, needs to assert its own strategy. “If we just keep copying what the U.S. does, we risk losing both our autonomy and our markets.”

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The City of Sherbrooke is inviting residents to help shape how it communicates and collaborates with the public by participating in a survey to update its Politique de participation publique (Public Participation Policy). The initiative is part of a broader push to strengthen citizen engagement in municipal affairs, a goal Mayor Évelyne Beaudin says is central to good governance.

The short questionnaire, available online until April 13, is designed to gather public input on the values and principles that should guide future consultations. According to Beaudin, “Dialogue with citizens is at the heart of municipal action. Involving the public in decision-making is essential for governance that truly meets their needs.”

The current update builds on work that began in January with the creation of a dedicated Public Participation Team within the city administration. This new team is tasked with designing consistent engagement strategies and guiding how Sherbrooke connects with residents on everything from zoning and infrastructure projects to cultural and sports policies.

“We needed a guide for the team to know how to respond to the orientations of city council,” Beaudin said during an interview on April 10. “So, the survey is part of this work to elaborate our new public participation policy”.

While the city has conducted similar consultations in the past—including a broad community development survey held last year—the mayor clarified that the current initiative is more comprehensive and intended to encompass a wider range of municipal decisions.

“That one was more for citizen participation at the community level—how you can get involved in your neighbourhood or even your street,” she explained. “This one is for everyone, monsieur, madame, tout le monde. It’s about anything going on in the city”.

Urban planning remains one of the top areas where Sherbrooke residents tend to engage. Beaudin noted that consultations are often held around the development of new housing projects, traffic concerns, and public green spaces. However, engagement also extends to municipal policy-making in areas like culture and recreation.

“Each time we work on a new policy, we want to hear from the public. And we adapt our approach depending on the objectives of the policy or project,” said Beaudin.

Participation levels across the city vary, but Sherbrooke compares favourably to similar municipalities, the mayor said. “We have a big participation at city council meetings when I compare with my colleagues in other cities,” she said. “For other activities, it really depends.”

One key challenge is making sure residents feel their time and opinions matter. “If people take one, two, or three hours out of their lives to participate, they need to know their voice will be heard, that it will make a real difference,” Beaudin said. “That’s a game-changer. When people see that their participation is effective, they come back and participate again”.

The city is also working to improve how it invites residents to participate and how it follows up with them afterward. According to Beaudin, those early and closing moments in the engagement process can determine whether people view the experience positively or not.

Sometimes, especially when a project affects a small number of residents, direct outreach like door-to-door flyers works better. In other cases, large-scale engagement strategies are more appropriate. “We’re trying to build new standards to ensure the activities are useful for us, but mainly that they offer a positive experience for the public,” said Beaudin.

Asked why public participation matters so much, the mayor was unequivocal: it leads to better decision-making. “All the worst decisions that were taken in the past in Sherbrooke were always because there was not enough consultation,” she said. “When you don’t take the time to verify what people want, you just make bad decisions.”

Although turnout in municipal elections tends to be lower than in federal ones, Beaudin believes Sherbrooke’s relatively high levels of civic engagement are due in part to a robust local media landscape. “We have a lot of active local media. I think it helps people stay more interested in what’s going on in their city,” she said.

The mayor acknowledged there’s still room to grow, especially when it comes to participation in polls and surveys. But she remains hopeful that the new policy and its public input process will move the city in the right direction.

“If I run for election and I’m elected, I’m there for the people,” she said. “If I just suppose what they need, instead of verifying, I won’t be as good a politician as I could be.”

Residents can fill out the questionnaire until Saturday, April 13 at sherbrooke.ca/politiquedeparticipation. The results will help shape the updated policy, which will serve as a framework for future consultations across the city.

William Crooks
Council members gather at the front of the room before the April 7 meeting gets underway in North Hatley

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

At North Hatley’s April 7 council meeting, Mayor Marcella Davis-Gerrish and councillors addressed a range of local concerns including a new housing development, lake access fees, noise complaints, and infrastructure funding. The meeting, which lasted approximately 50 minutes, drew about 10 residents to the municipal hall and ended with a public question period that touched on several high-interest topics.

New condo-commercial development gets green light

Council unanimously approved a new multi-use construction project at 225–233 rue Main. The proposal includes 22 residential condominiums and commercial space on the ground floor, with indoor parking located at ground level rather than underground. The project was reviewed by the Comité consultatif d’urbanisme (CCU) and includes a full landscaping plan.

“These are condos for sale,” the mayor confirmed. “No underground parking. There are 22 indoor spots and an additional buffer of parking on the adjacent lot so residents won’t take over the municipal lot”. Council members said the developer hopes to begin construction as early as June.

Non-resident lake access fees stir debate

One of the most discussed items came during the public question period, as residents raised concerns about the new seasonal access fees for non-residents using Lake Massawippi.

The adopted rate for full-season motorized boat access for non-residents is a total of $450. However, Mayor Davis-Gerrish explained that neighbouring municipalities within the Parc régional Massawippi are charging even more—up to $575.

“That’s for people coming from places like Montreal for the weekend,” she said. “Here, we’ve kept it at $450, which helps fund the lake patrol. That’s how we manage to keep resident fees lower”. She also clarified that residents from Hatley Township can still register and won’t be classified as non-residents for fee purposes.

Traffic and noise from speeding vehicles and motorcycles

Several residents brought up speeding and early morning noise on roads such as Sherbrooke Road and Massawippi Road. One resident described the noise from motorcycles as a “public nuisance,” saying they begin around 6 a.m. and disturb the peace in the village.

Another resident highlighted safety issues on another street in town: “We see kids on bikes, skateboards, scooters—cars are coming down way too fast. I’m afraid there’s going to be an accident”.

In response, council members said they are considering further traffic-calming measures, including the possible installation of additional speed boxes and physical infrastructure such as raised strips or other barriers. “We know it’s a concern, and we’re looking into permanent solutions,” said Davis-Gerrish.

Provincial funding delay for infrastructure raises concerns

The mayor was also asked about the delay in redevelopment plans for Pleasant View Beach House and infrastructure on the west side of town. A council member explained that while North Hatley received a letter from the provincial government confirming up to $3 million in eligible funding, the PRIMO program has been put on hold.

“We’re waiting for final authorizations from the Ministère des Affaires Municipales,” the councillor said. “If the current funds don’t come through, we’ll look for other sources. But the existing building isn’t salvageable—it can’t be renovated. It would have to be rebuilt”.

Consultations planned for village master plan

Residents asked how they could participate in the development of the new master plan for the village. The mayor confirmed that consultations have already begun with local business owners and that a dedicated website is in development to allow for online surveys and submissions.

“They want everyone to feel comfortable sharing ideas,” said Davis-Gerrish. “Not everyone wants to speak up in a crowded meeting, so the platform will allow people to contribute at their own pace”.

Lake patrol and inspection powers renewed

In connection with lake management, council passed a resolution assigning patrol duties to the Régie du Parc Régional Massawippi and reappointed two officers as municipal inspectors. This allows them to issue tickets for infractions, particularly relating to environmental regulations.

“These are the same patrollers we’ve had for the past two or three years,” noted one councillor. “They’re in the cadet program and understand the environmental challenges well”.

Street sweeping contract awarded

Council also awarded a just over $17,000 contract to M&S Létourneau for sweeping streets and municipal parking lots this spring, based on a service offer submitted on March 11.

The next regular North Hatley council meeting is scheduled for Monday, May 5.

William Crooks
Charles Davies stands beside the brush and stumps left behind after Hydro-Québec and Bell cleared trees under the power lines on his property in Sainte-Catherine-de-Hatley

Local man says Hydro clean-up left his land unusable

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

A Sainte-Catherine-de-Hatley resident says his land has been left in a state of disrepair following a vegetation management operation carried out last fall by Hydro-Québec and Bell. Charles Davies, who owns seven acres overlooking Lake Massawippi, claims that stumps and branches left behind after the utility companies cut trees near the power lines now prevent him from maintaining the property he’s looked after for five decades.

“I’ve been maintaining this for 50 years, mowing the grass and looking after it,” Davies told The Record. “It’s such a mess now that I won’t be able to maintain it. The stumps and branches are still there.”

Davies explained that in the past, large trees growing under the power lines had caused power failures due to falling branches. Hydro-Québec and Bell, in response, cut down the trees last fall but left most of the wood behind. A local sawmill, through an arrangement with Davies’s neighbour Henri Guérin, retrieved logs from Guérin’s property. According to Hydro-Québec spokesperson Sébastien Martineau on April 7, Guérin had also offered to have the sawmill remove logs from Davies’s land.

Martineau says Davies refused the offer. “He chose not to participate in the agreement to send his logs to the mill,” he said. Because of that, commercially valuable wood—defined by Hydro-Québec as anything over 10 centimetres in diameter—was left on Davies’s land, as is standard policy across Quebec. Davies himself said he never had a problem with the removal of the logs as planned. When The Record visited Davies’ property for a photo on April 4, the logs were gone.

For branches and smaller debris, Martineau said Hydro-Québec only provides removal services in residential neighbourhoods. “Everywhere else, the branches are left in piles on the property,” he explained. “It’s the landowner’s responsibility to remove them if they want.”

Davies says while some of the debris was partially shredded, the remaining brush and stumps make the terrain impossible to mow.

Martineau emphasized that Hydro-Québec’s decisions are shaped by cost and service priorities. “Collecting branches everywhere in Quebec would be very expensive, and we’d rather focus our resources on cutting and pruning to prevent outages,” he said. The same contractors are responsible for both clearing vegetation and removing debris, so prioritizing debris collection would reduce the number of trees the company can manage elsewhere, he explained.

He added that leaving branches on the ground benefits the ecosystem by enriching the soil, helping control erosion, and providing wildlife habitat.

Martineau followed up after his interview to clarify the broader context, noting that 11,500 km of power lines underwent vegetation management in 2024 alone. He also stressed that no other complaints had been received about the specific clean-up work in Davies’s area and expressed concern about being misrepresented.

“Some found we cut too much,” Martineau admitted. “But in this case, we haven’t had other complaints about how the debris was handled.”

Davies, however, remains unsure of what to do next. “There’s no way I’ll be able to maintain the grass,” he said. “It’s going to be a mess for years to come.”

William Crooks
Mayor Évelyne Beaudin speaks at a press conference on April 7, outlining Sherbrooke’s federal priorities and urging local candidates to commit to concrete action

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

In a pointed and detailed press conference held on April 7 at Sherbrooke’s City Hall, Mayor Évelyne Beaudin called on federal election candidates to take concrete positions on critical issues facing the city. Flanked by local media, Beaudin outlined her top three federal priorities: restoring passenger rail service between Sherbrooke and Montréal, protecting drinking water sources, and developing the Sherbrooke airport into a hub for technology and innovation.

“The decisions made in Ottawa have a real impact on the ground here,” Beaudin stated early in her address, underscoring that federal involvement is essential for Sherbrooke’s development—even if municipal affairs fall primarily under provincial jurisdiction.

Beaudin stressed that with the third week of the federal campaign underway, it was time for local candidates to commit to specific action. “I want to hear concrete commitments,” she said, framing her press conference as both an invitation and a challenge to federal hopefuls.

Passenger rail: “a matter of economic development”

At the top of Beaudin’s list was the long-discussed return of a passenger train link between Sherbrooke and Montreal. She emphasized the city’s sustained population growth—over 10,000 new residents in less than four years—and the strategic importance of a reliable, weather-resilient transport link to the province’s metropolis.

Estimates for such a project hover around $1.3 billion, though Beaudin suggested the actual cost could be far higher. “It could be $4 or $5 billion and still be just as relevant,” she said. “The impact of efficient transport infrastructure on economic development is undeniable.”

She urged candidates to treat the file with the same urgency and visibility that has surrounded the Québec–Lévis third link. “Sherbrooke deserves just as much attention,” she insisted.

Clean water and invasive species: beyond infrastructure

The mayor’s second priority centred on the protection of drinking water sources, especially Lake Memphremagog. While Sherbrooke has received funding for infrastructure projects in the past, Beaudin stressed that protecting the city’s water requires more than pipes and plants.

She called attention to invasive species like zebra mussels and the increasing presence of chemical contaminants such as PFAS. “These are not problems a city can deal with alone,” Beaudin warned, calling for stricter national regulations and more federal investment in research and monitoring.

“Our drinking water becomes someone else’s wastewater—and vice versa,” she said. “This system is interconnected, and the federal government must take responsibility.”

Beaudin also highlighted that Sherbrooke had to front its own money to combat zebra mussel infiltration in its water systems, a cost she argued should be borne by higher levels of government. “It’s not right that we had to pay for that out of our municipal budget,” she said, calling for unconditional and more flexible federal funding.

A vision for the airport: a “Technopark” of the future

Beaudin’s third major file focused on the Sherbrooke airport, which sits on 563 hectares of land, with 360 hectares available for development. Rather than pursuing traditional passenger flight expansion, she proposed a new vision: a “Technopark” dedicated to innovation in aerospace, drones, and public safety technology.

“This is not about another industrial park with rows of large factories,” she explained. “It’s about research, development, and pilot projects that align with our region’s strengths.”

She pointed to Sherbrooke’s proximity to major institutions, an existing flight school, and a relatively uncongested airspace as unique assets. “We believe this site can propel the region forward,” Beaudin said.

Though the airport was once seeking formal federal designation, Beaudin said the focus has now shifted to attracting high-value industries and forging alignment among all levels of government.

Mixed signals from candidates

In response to media questions, Beaudin was frank about the lacklustre federal campaign so far. “It’s as if everything is already decided,” she said. “When candidates feel too comfortable, no one makes any promises—and without promises, there’s nothing to hold them to.”

She reported having begun individual meetings with some candidates and said more would take place soon. However, she expressed disappointment with the limited engagement from some. “The Conservative candidate won’t say anything at all,” she noted. “That’s frustrating.”

She also called out the tendency for candidates to offer vague pro-environment statements without specifying regulatory changes or funding plans. “We don’t just want good intentions—we want standards to change,” she insisted.

Beaudin acknowledged that some federal funding is already available but tied up at the provincial level. “There’s money, but it’s blocked,” she said. “It needs to flow directly to the regions.”

She reiterated the need to rethink housing development strategies, linking the housing crisis with infrastructure shortfalls. “We can’t keep building if our systems can’t handle the wastewater,” she said, emphasizing that federal involvement in infrastructure is essential for housing to expand.

Local media matter

Beaudin also pointed to the role of local media in pressing candidates to respond. “The fact that we still have a vibrant local media ecosystem here in Sherbrooke makes a big difference,” she said. She encouraged federal efforts to help local outlets survive and even floated the idea of Canada Post distributing local news free of charge.

As the event closed, Beaudin called on voters to push candidates for clarity and commitment. “If I can add my voice today to underline how important this campaign is, I will absolutely do so,” she said. “Because it does make a difference for the region.”

Beaudin confirmed that only the Bloc Québécois candidate had formally requested a meeting at that point, but she remained hopeful that other parties would respond.

“The issues are clear,” she concluded. “Now we need to hear the commitments.”

William Crooks
Candidates Norm Green, Guillaume Brien, and André Duncan take reporters’ questions following the Vision Action Sherbrooke candidate announcement at the Golden Lion Pub on Apr. 3

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Vision Action Sherbrooke (VAS), a municipal political party founded in 2024, marked its first anniversary with the announcement of two candidates for Lennoxville. The event was held Thursday afternoon, April 3, at the Golden Lion Pub, with more than 30 locals in attendance.

Guillaume Brien, mayoral candidate for Sherbrooke and leader of VAS, introduced André Duncan and Norman Green as the party’s first two candidates in the borough. Duncan will run for city councillor in Lennoxville, while Green will seek the position of borough councillor for the Fairview district.

“This is the one-year anniversary of Vision Action Sherbrooke,” Brien told the crowd. “We’re proud to announce two candidates who reflect the values of our party—proximity, listening, and teamwork.”

VAS confirmed that a third candidate should eventually be announced for the remaining Lennoxville council seat. According to Brien, although several prospective candidates had been approached, business commitments prevented them from proceeding. “We’re confident we’ll present a strong trio,” he said.

André Duncan: Municipal council candidate

Duncan, who has worked in hospitality and event management, is the founder of a consulting business in mixology. He stated that his decision to run was based on a desire to be involved in local governance and support projects that address both environmental and social needs.

He referenced his recent involvement in community initiatives, including meetings with local health and forestry organizations. Duncan mentioned the recent acquisition of 34.4 hectares of the Ascot-Lennox forest, calling it “a good, big territory” that requires concrete ideas and long-term planning.

He also addressed the housing crisis: “I’m convinced there’s potential for affordable housing in strategic areas of Lennoxville,” he said, noting that he has personally experienced housing challenges.

Norman Green: Borough council candidate

Green has lived in Lennoxville for over 20 years and has served in various volunteer roles, including president of the Lennoxville Residents Association. He has also been active in defending Lennoxville’s bilingual status, an issue he called “a living, breathing part of our community.”

At the event, Green outlined three main priorities: protecting bilingualism, improving public transit, and increasing transparency in local governance. He said he would push for better bus service for students, seniors, and workers and called for more accessible city government processes.

“I will advocate for open dialogue, real-time feedback, and stronger regular attendance at town meetings,” he said.

Responses to questions

During a media scrum following the announcements, Brien confirmed that Vision Action Sherbrooke now has over 300 members and continues to grow. He noted that interest in the party has come from other regions of Quebec due to its focus on innovation and sustainable development.

The absence of a third candidate in Lennoxville was addressed directly. Duncan explained that some potential candidates declined due to professional responsibilities, but said recruitment efforts were ongoing.

Both Duncan and Green said they had already begun meeting with community groups and attending public events in preparation for their campaigns.

The municipal election is scheduled for later this year in the fall.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Speaking from a dairy farm on April 2 in Granby, François-Philippe Champagne, Canada’s Minister of Finance, unveiled a major Liberal plan to strengthen Canada’s agricultural sector, protect food producers, and safeguard supply management in the face of new U.S. tariffs expected to be announced by President Trump later that day.

Standing alongside Félix Dion, mayor of Shefford, and Marianne Dandurand, former tourism executive and Liberal candidate in Compton–Stansted, Champagne emphasized the central role agriculture plays in the Eastern Townships and across Canada.

“The strength of Canada starts in our fields,” said Champagne. “We’re here to protect what matters—our farmers, our food system, and our sovereignty.”

The new Liberal plan, announced on behalf of party leader Mark Carney, includes targeted measures to bolster Canada’s agri-food sector, particularly against anticipated trade disruptions. At the heart of the platform is a firm commitment to supply management.

“Let me be very clear,” said Champagne. “No matter the content of negotiations with the U.S. or any other country, we will never, ever accept any questioning of supply management. It is non-negotiable.”

According to a related press release, the plan includes:
• Making permanent the increased AgriStability coverage, doubling protection from $3 million to $6 million per farm;
• Establishing a $200 million Domestic Food Processing Fund to boost local processing capacity;
• Injecting $30 million into the AgriMarketing Program to help Canadian products access new markets;
• Adding $30 million to the Agriculture Clean Technology Program to help producers modernize with greener equipment;
• Expanding the Canadian Agricultural Loans Act limit from $500,000 to $1 million and extending repayment terms to help young farmers access land and build operations.

The announcement took place amid uncertainty surrounding U.S. trade policy, with tariffs looming. Champagne acknowledged producers’ concerns and positioned the plan as a proactive response to economic turbulence.

“There may be short-term disruptions,” he said, “but I remain very confident that in the long run, Canada will come out stronger, more united, and more resilient.”

The family that runs Ferme Julio, the Delormes, were recognized during the event as an example of successful agricultural renewal and innovation. Their upcoming on-site fromagerie reflects a broader Liberal aim of supporting local production and processing.

Champagne underlined the strategic importance of food sovereignty, noting that nearly one in nine Canadian jobs is linked to agriculture. “Producing what we eat in Canada is not just economic—it’s about who we are,” he said.

During the press availability, reporters pressed Champagne on whether Canada had received details on the new U.S. tariffs. He declined to speculate, stating only that Canada is “ready for all eventualities” and committed to defending workers and industries.

On April 3, the U.S. officially imposed new tariffs on Canadian dairy and steel products, escalating trade tensions between the two countries. In response, the Canadian government announced it would implement “measured and targeted” countermeasures aimed at protecting key domestic sectors. According to reporting by CBC News, Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland stated that Canada “will not back down when our workers and industries are unfairly targeted,” and emphasized the government’s commitment to defending supply-managed sectors.

Asked about access to farmland for new farmers, Champagne at the event pointed to the increased loan guarantees as a critical tool to help the next generation. “The Delorme family is a perfect example,” he said. “Young people investing, transforming, and selling local—this is the future.”

Responding to a question on whether Mark Carney would be campaigning in the region, Champagne confirmed the Liberal leader’s strong ties to Quebec and said more visits were expected.

The press conference ended with thanks to the Delorme family and a promise: “We will defend our producers, support our workers, and build a stronger Canada—together.”

Cookshire Fair preps for 180th edition after sunny 2024 success

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

After a strong 2024 edition marked by sunny skies and solid attendance, the Cookshire Fair is gearing up for its 180th anniversary this summer, running from Aug. 14 to 17.

“We had a good extra,” said Brandon Ward, president of the Compton County Agricultural Society, in an interview. “But next year, we don’t have a clue what could happen.”

Ward confirmed that the 2024 fair ended with a roughly 10 per cent operating surplus—between $20,000 and $30,000. Attendance was in the range of 4,000 to 5,000 over the four-day event.

“It sounds like a lot, but in a way, it’s not,” Ward said. “There’s always repairs to be done.” Any surplus, he added, goes back into improving the experience for exhibitors and fairgoers.

The Society held its annual general meeting in February, where Ward and several other executive members were re-elected. Three new directors also joined the board. “We try to make things better for the people that come to the fair,” said Ward. “That’s why we do the fair—for them, not for ourselves.”

This year’s midway is already confirmed, but Ward said other programming is still being finalized. “There will be some pretty significant changes that will be interesting for visitors,” he said. Updates will be posted on the fair’s Facebook page as bookings are confirmed.

The Cookshire Fair continues to reflect the region’s bilingual makeup. “I would like to say it’s 50-50,” Ward said of the board’s cultural composition. “Everybody can speak English or French.”

While the Society posted a surplus in 2024, Ward noted that the fair remains vulnerable to weather and rising costs. “The weather makes it,” he said. “Some years we could lose money. It all depends.”

William Crooks
David Bombardier, liaison officer with the City of Sherbrooke, speaks during the Apr. 3 press conference outlining the 2025 construction season

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Sherbrooke will see an unprecedented $74.9 million in roadwork and infrastructure projects this summer, the highest investment since 2020. At a press conference on Apr. 3, city officials presented a detailed breakdown of 97 planned interventions, including resurfacing, sewer reconstruction, sidewalk construction, and cycling infrastructure.

“Talking about roadwork may not be glamorous, but it affects all of us,” said Sherbrooke Mayor Évelyne Beaudin, the first of four speakers. “This year marks a record level of investment.”

According to Beaudin, $49.8 million will be spent on surface roadwork, while $25.1 million is allocated to water systems, environmental cleanup, and project planning for future years. “We’ve significantly increased the city’s investments,” she said, citing a 94 per cent rise in sewer and aqueduct work, a 50 per cent jump in paving, and a 12 per cent boost in active transportation.

She also underscored Sherbrooke’s hybrid construction model. “It’s pretty rare in Québec,” Beaudin said. “A good portion of our work is done by internal teams, which makes us more agile and allows us to start earlier in the season.”

What to expect: The city’s most disruptive work sites

While over 90 projects are scheduled across the city, several will cause significant and lasting disruptions. Among them:

• King Ouest, between Léger/Bertrand-Fabi and Sauvé/Comtois, will see reduced lanes for more than two weeks. With around 50,000 vehicles daily, it’s among the city’s busiest arteries.
• Boulevard de l’Université and rue Galt Ouest, near Autoroute 410, will undergo resurfacing expected to last at least four weeks.
• The King/Jacques-Cartier intersection will be under construction for approximately a week, with night-time work scheduled to limit daytime congestion.
• In the downtown core, Wellington Sud will be completely closed for a month as part of a private developer’s project. After that, sporadic closures are expected to continue for nearly a year.
• The Jacques-Cartier Bridge, under the authority of the MTMD, will see months of disruptions, contributing to long-term slowdowns.
• In Fleurimont, Bowen Sud will be completely closed for three weeks for underground infrastructure reconstruction.
• In Lennoxville, only minor work is planned, including a two-day closure of the St. Francis bridge near Bishop’s University for paving.

All works are listed on the city’s interactive construction map at sherbrooke.ca/travaux.

Focus on active transport and school safety

Director of engineering Caroline Gravel detailed the scope of 2025’s work: 3.3 kilometres of underground infrastructure reconstruction and 16.4 kilometres of surface paving. “We’re doing 12 major reconstruction projects and 25 repaving jobs,” she said. “These range from major intersections like King and Jacques-Cartier to smaller local streets.”

Projects to support walking and cycling are prominent in this year’s plans. Eleven new sidewalks totalling 4.3 kilometres will be added, and at least five new cycling links—totaling 3.8 kilometres—will be created, including routes on Wellington Sud, Aberdeen, McManamy, McCrea, and Quatre-Saisons.

“We used to measure success in kilometres,” said Beaudin. “Now, we focus on connectivity and the ability to intervene where it’s most needed.”

Fifteen school zones will also be upgraded for safety, along with eleven crosswalks and five intersections across the city.

New tools to keep citizens informed

Élise Arguin, liaison officer for public communications, presented the city’s strategy for keeping residents up to date. In addition to social media and mailed letters, the MonSherbrooke.ca portal and its “Chantier dans ma rue” feature are at the centre of the plan.

“This tool allows us to communicate directly with people affected by work on their street,” Arguin said. “They receive updates in real time, and they can even submit questions or requests.”

The system’s effectiveness was illustrated by an example from last fall, when a resident asked where to place garbage bins on a newly modified street. The city responded with photos and shared the answer with all subscribers on that street. “We didn’t get any more questions after that,” Arguin said.

More money, more scrutiny

When reporters had the opportunity to ask questions, the mayor was asked why this year’s total is so much higher. “It’s largely because of funding availability,” Beaudin explained. “We’re now in a new subsidy cycle. Last year, we had to prioritise based on strict funding rules. This year, we can do more surface work.”

Asked whether the funding decisions were influenced by Québec’s 2025 provincial budget, Beaudin responded that the projects were already planned in advance, as part of multi-year programs funded by both provincial and federal governments.

She also acknowledged the limits of relying on conditional funding. “Most of this money comes with strings attached. It forces us to prioritise based on program rules, not always local needs,” she said. “We would strongly prefer direct funding without conditions.”

How priorities are set

When pressed on how the city chose which neighbourhoods would benefit, Beaudin said complaints are inevitable. “Even if we put every dollar into roads and nothing else, it wouldn’t be enough,” she said. “We’ve given our technical teams as much autonomy as possible to identify where intervention is most urgent.”

The city uses diagnostic data on pavement condition and infrastructure performance to guide planning. “It’s not a political decision about who gets what,” said Beaudin. “It’s about where the need is greatest and where the intervention will be most effective.”

What about Lennoxville?

In response to The Record’s observation that Lennoxville appears to be largely left out of this year’s plans, the liaison officer with the City of Sherbrooke, David Bombardier confirmed that only minor work is planned.

“There’s nothing major,” said Bombardier. “Some work is planned on Mitchell and two days of paving on the St. Francis bridge near Bishop’s University, but that’s it.”

Beaudin acknowledged the concern, noting that with only so much funding and staff available, some sectors must wait. “We have to balance urgency with feasibility,” she said.

Still, residents across the city—including Lennoxville—can expect some disruption as projects roll out between April and November. “People will need to stay informed and flexible this summer,” Beaudin said. “The good news is, most interruptions should be short-lived.”

William Crooks
Hatley Township council members, chaired by Councillor Jacques Bogenez in the absence of the mayor, discuss zoning, infrastructure, and local services during their regular monthly meeting

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

At its monthly meeting held April 1 at the town hall, Hatley Township council addressed a wide-ranging agenda in the absence of Mayor Vincent Fontaine, who was off sick. Councillor Jacques Bogenez presided over the meeting, which drew approximately eight residents and touched on zoning, waste management, cultural planning and infrastructure challenges.

Zoning changes open door to new commerce

Two significant zoning amendments were passed to allow more commercial activity near Highway 410 and in the EX4 zone, close to local quarry operations.

Council adopted a bylaw modifying the zoning plan to allow light commercial activity along the highway corridor. “We’ve been trying for a long time to diversify permitted uses in that area,” said a councillor. “We’re not talking about disruptive businesses—just some small commercial options.” After years of opposition from the MRC, the municipality can now move forward with limited commercial development.

A second bylaw focused on conditional uses in the quarry-adjacent zone. It introduces criteria-based conditions that would allow certain commercial projects, provided they are compatible with the surrounding environment and land-use constraints.

$1.67 million landfill expansion approved

Council gave its approval to a $1.67 million investment in expanding part of the regional technical landfill in Coaticook. The project is overseen by the intermunicipal waste management board, of which Hatley is one of 22 member municipalities.

“This new cell has to be built with membranes and drainage systems to prevent water from seeping into groundwater or nearby streams,” explained one councillor. “It’s costly—much more than what citizens are charged in fees.”

Although Hatley’s share is relatively small compared to larger municipalities, elected officials acknowledged the challenge of being tied to group decisions. “Politically, it’s not easy being part of a million-and-a-half-dollar borrowing plan, but this is a collective responsibility,” said one councillor.

Gas tax funds: Past project closes, new phase begins

Council passed a resolution completing the final steps of its 2019–2024 TEC (Gas Tax and Quebec Contribution) infrastructure funding agreement. This allows the township to qualify for the 2025–2029 cycle.

“This is one of the biggest subsidies municipalities receive,” said a councillor. “For us, it brought in about $1.5 million.” Past projects included infrastructure improvements such as road upgrades. The new round is expected to continue funding similar work.

Waste collection schedule set through 2029

Council adopted a new waste and organic material collection calendar that will run from 2026 to 2029. Organic waste will be picked up weekly from April to October and every two weeks in winter. Garbage will be collected biweekly in the summer and monthly in winter. Large-item pickup will take place once annually in August, and Christmas trees will be collected in January.

The township also approved the purchase of 50 new rolling green bins for organics, at a cost of just under $7,600.

Township joins national economic campaign

Council voted to join the “Defend Canada” campaign, a national initiative encouraging Canadian municipalities to support domestic industries in response to trade barriers from the United States.

“We’re trying to buy Québécois and Canadian as much as possible,” said a councillor. “Given the changes in leadership south of the border, everyone is going to feel it. We need to stick together.”

Culture committee appointments and survey ahead

The newly created culture committee was officially staffed, with appointments retroactive to Jan. 31. A survey will soon be distributed to residents to gather input on the township’s cultural life.

“We want to write a cultural policy that reflects who we are and what people want,” said a councillor. “We’re not trying to organize events ourselves—there are already great groups doing that. Our role is to support them with facilities and coordination.”

The councillor added that the committee sees cultural life as encompassing not just events, but also landscapes, heritage, and local history. “It’s up to us to help keep that alive.”

Roads dominate question period

The second question period brought forward long-standing frustrations about the condition of township roads. One resident asked why the municipality wasn’t rebuilding even a few roads each year. “If you did just one or two each year, eventually they’d all get done,” he said.

“You’re right to be frustrated,” responded a councillor. “We have nearly 100 kilometres of road, and not all of them have been repaired in 30 years.” Another added, “We can’t do everything at once, but we’re not ignoring it either.”

Council said a professional assessment was recently completed that ranked every road in the township and laid out priorities. “Engineers looked at the entire territory and provided prioritization charts. Now it’s our job to act on them.”

The issue is also financial. “Our roads budget—including snow removal—represents a third, maybe even 40 per cent, of the entire municipal budget,” one councillor noted. “If we want to do more, taxes would have to go up.”

A councillor also shared insights from an expert who had visited earlier that day: “He told us that only one in five municipalities actually gets the provincial subsidy for roads. That’s why we need to have our files complete, with estimates and documents ready, to have a chance.”

Reaction to provincial budget

In response to a question about the recently tabled provincial budget, councillors said they were monitoring its implications but hadn’t discussed it in depth.

“We’re in a period of restraint,” one councillor said. “We’re seeing cuts to health, education, and municipalities too. We’ll need to respond accordingly.” Another emphasized the role of the regional prefect, who sits on both provincial and federal municipal bodies. “He speaks with authority and represents us well.”

Other matters

Council also:

• Approved a $23,500 contract for liquid calcium dust suppressant.
• Accepted a $766 per-tonne offer for 10,000 kg of granular calcium for summer use.
• Accepted architectural plans for two residential construction projects.
• Appointed a representative to the Saint-François River watershed council.
• Named new officers to oversee invasive species prevention.
• Hired two student patrollers to monitor summer activity on local waterways.

The meeting lasted approximately 45 minutes. The next regular session is scheduled for the first Tuesday of next month.

William Crooks
Protestors wave flags at Place Kassiwi in Sherbrooke during the April 1 demonstration against Quebec’s health care reform, part of a province-wide week of action

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Community and union groups gathered at Place Kassiwi in Sherbrooke on April 1 to publicly denounce what they called “false promises” by Quebec’s health minister, Christian Dubé. The protest was part of a coordinated effort by the Coalition solidarité santé (CSS) during its annual “week of action” campaign.

Organized by the Estrie branch of the CSS, the demonstration brought together representatives of various community and labour organizations who are concerned about the direction of the province’s health care reform. Participants voiced alarm over the centralisation of decision-making and a lack of real investment in the public system.

Dominique Vigneux-Parent, spokesperson for the Regroupement des organismes communautaires de l’Estrie and regional representative of the CSS, said that despite the minister’s assurances, the reform is moving away from democratic principles. “One of the promises was that this reform would bring more democracy and more listening to the population,” she said in an on-site interview. “That’s not what we’re seeing at all.”

She pointed to the elimination of CIUSSS boards of directors as an example of power being taken away from the regions. “The decisions will now be made by Santé Québec and no longer here in the region,” Vigneux-Parent said. “That’s a loss of power for us.”

The protest was framed around the symbolic date of Apr. 1—April Fool’s Day—with participants warning that the government’s commitments to accessibility, universality, and free care risk becoming nothing more than a bad joke. As the event’s slogan put it: “So that free, accessible and universal health care isn’t just an April Fool’s joke!”

Critics of the reform are also pointing to what they call insufficient funding for the organisations that support health and social services at the community level. Vigneux-Parent noted that while groups received an extra $3,000 in the recent provincial budget, it was far from enough. “Three thousand dollars isn’t much. It might buy a few meals, but it won’t allow us to hire staff or implement structural measures,” she said.

Rather than increasing bureaucracy, she argued that what is needed is a reinvestment in public services and a return to regionally grounded decision-making. “We want a reform that’s closer to the citizens,” she said. “Not someone in a tower who represents all of Quebec and decides what our needs are.”

The demonstration was one of several across the province that week, as part of a broader mobilisation to defend Quebec’s public health system. “We’re all here because we believe in this public system,” said Vigneux-Parent. “It’s something we need to protect and cherish for future generations.”

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Amid growing economic uncertainty tied to potential U.S. tariffs and criticism of the CAQ’s recent budget, Liberal MNA Désirée McGraw made a full-day visit to the Eastern Townships on Mar. 31 to meet with local companies and community organizations. The tour included stops in Sherbrooke, Bromont, and Granby and focused on the economic challenges facing the region—especially its close ties to American markets.

“We’re seeing serious implications for companies whose markets are primarily in the U.S.,” McGraw told The Record in a phone interview during her tour. “Even before April 2, businesses have had to make tough decisions to reassure American clients they’ll absorb the cost of the 25 per cent tariffs.”

McGraw, the MNA for Notre-Dame-de-Grâce and the official opposition’s spokesperson for the Estrie region and social economy, said she tries to visit the Townships once a month. Last week she attended a sugar shack event in Magog; this time, her mission was firmly economic.

Her day began in Sherbrooke with a visit to Groupe Probex, a social enterprise that provides employment opportunities to adults with intellectual disabilities and those no longer supported by the public education or health care systems. McGraw praised the organization’s model of citizen engagement and social inclusion, calling it “a concept that should be exported to other regions, especially at a time when the labour shortage is critical.”

However, she also noted a troubling vulnerability. “Some of the companies Probex partners with are directly impacted by the American tariffs. And what we’re hearing is that when budgets are tight, programs with a social mission like this are the first to be cut,” she said. “That’s where you see not just economic fallout, but a social one too.”

From there, McGraw headed to Sherbrooke’s industrial park to visit Motrec International, a manufacturer of electric industrial vehicles. The company exports approximately 70 per cent of its products to the U.S., making it especially vulnerable to changes in trade policy under the current American administration.

“They have clients like FedEx, Air Canada, Tesla, Via Rail—the list goes on,” said McGraw. “But when most of your market is south of the border, a tariff like this is a direct hit. These are successful companies, but you can’t shift your client base overnight.”

Despite these challenges, McGraw said the businesses she met showed resilience and foresight. Motrec CEO Blair McIntosh, she noted, has implemented a strategy to weather the uncertainty. “He’s doing an outstanding job, really taking the company to the next level,” she said.

The day continued in Bromont, where McGraw met with representatives from Technum Québec, an international-calibre innovation zone made up of high-tech companies. She used the visit to learn more about the region’s technology ecosystem and congratulated Manon Duclos on her recent appointment as president and CEO of the organization.

She wrapped up her tour at the Chamber of Commerce in Granby, where discussions revolved around the specific challenges and needs of local businesses. “There’s a lot of energy and determination here,” she said. “But also a recognition that things are going to get tougher before they get better.”

McGraw also used the tour to hear local feedback on the CAQ government’s recently tabled budget. “We’re looking at another historic deficit of $13 billion,” she said. “The CAQ came into power with a $7 billion surplus. That’s $20 billion squandered.”

She accused the Legault government of using public money for populist measures instead of improving services. “We’re seeing cuts, not improvements, in our health and education systems,” McGraw said. “There’s growing frustration that Quebecers are heavily taxed but not getting the services they deserve.”

In addition to her economic mission, McGraw weighed in on the Quebec Liberal Party’s ongoing leadership race. She confirmed her support for Pablo Rodriguez, describing him as the only candidate with both legislative and ministerial experience. “We need someone who can hit the ground running, who can rebuild the party, win elections, and stand up to the economic and political threats we’re facing—especially from a possible Trump administration,” she said.

Turning to Bill 94, recently tabled in response to a controversial situation at Bedford school in Montreal, McGraw said the Liberal caucus is still reviewing the legislation but expressed “serious concerns” over its pre-emptive use of the notwithstanding clause and its extension of provisions similar to Bill 21 and Bill 96.

Bill 94 was tabled in response to allegations that Bedford public school was using its curriculum to proselytize students and promote gender inequality. The proposed legislation aims to strengthen oversight of educational institutions by pre-emptively invoking the notwithstanding clause to limit religious expression in schools, a move that has drawn criticism for potentially overreaching constitutional protections. While there is broad consensus that public funds should not support proselytism or discrimination, critics—including McGraw—are questioning whether Bill 94 effectively addresses the problem without infringing on basic rights.

“There’s consensus across all parties that religion has no place in public schools and that proselytizing children is unacceptable,” she said. “But we have to ask whether Bill 94 actually addresses the problem it’s supposed to fix, or if it goes too far and infringes on basic rights.”

She pointed to her party’s recent report on private religious education, which concluded that government-subsidized private schools must fully adhere to the Quebec curriculum. “There should be zero tolerance for anything that undermines the equality of men and women,” she said. “If religious instruction goes beyond the standard curriculum, it must be privately funded.”

Despite the heavy themes of the day—trade tensions, economic hardship, budgetary fallout, and education policy—McGraw said the meetings had been productive and energizing. “People are paying attention. They’re engaged. And they’re standing strong.” She plans to return to the Townships soon to meet with stakeholders in the tourism, culture, and community sectors.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Syndicat du personnel enseignant du Cégep de Sherbrooke (SPECS-CSN) has unanimously called for the resignation of Quebec’s Minister of Higher Education, Pascale Déry, following what the union describes as a politically motivated intrusion into academic freedom.

During a general assembly held earlier this week, union members expressed outrage over Déry’s recent intervention in two Montreal-area English-language colleges, Dawson and Vanier. The minister reportedly requested an evaluation of courses addressing the Palestinian question—raising concerns over their content and the qualifications of those teaching them.

“This is not a pedagogical question. It’s a political one, and it’s an unacceptable attempt to censor certain courses,” said SPECS-CSN president Mathieu Poulin-Lamarre in a March 28 interview. “Teachers are professionals who know how to present complex topics in ways that foster understanding and dialogue. To suggest otherwise is deeply disrespectful.”

The union emphasized that Déry’s request mirrored demands made by the Centre consultatif des relations juives et israéliennes (CIJA), a lobby group on whose board the minister served for six years. “It’s a line that should never have been crossed,” added Michèle Le Risbé, vice-president for pedagogical affairs at SPECS-CSN, in a related press release.

Poulin-Lamarre said the minister’s stated concern—that such courses could aggravate tensions on campus—is misguided. “If anything, teaching this content can help reduce tension by promoting shared understanding. Knowledge should not be limited; it should be more accessible to support peaceful campus life.”

Although the resolution is symbolic and the union will not pursue a legal challenge, Poulin-Lamarre said it was necessary to make their refusal clear. “We won’t sit back as if this is normal,” he said. “We refuse this kind of intervention.”

He added that the union is in contact with other groups like the Fédération nationale des enseignantes et enseignants du Québec (FNEEQ-CSN) and the Canadian Federation of Students (CFM) to potentially broaden the movement. “If other unions agree with us, we’ll organize and amplify this protest. This is a starting point.”

The SPECS-CSN is the second college faculty union to call for Déry’s resignation, following a similar resolution from the Syndicat des professeures et professeurs du cégep Édouard-Montpetit. Other organizations—including the Fédération des cégeps, the Fédération québécoise des professeures et professeurs d’université (FQPPU), and the FNEEQ-CSN—have also denounced the minister’s actions.

The union says the minister’s position contradicts the academic freedom legislation adopted by her own party, the CAQ, in 2022. “The CAQ of 2025 is doing exactly what the CAQ of 2022 was trying to prevent,” said Poulin-Lamarre. “Mr. Legault should be reining her in—not excusing her.”

He also expressed concern that similar patterns of political interference seen in the United States, such as the rejection of speakers like John Liu at Columbia University, could spread to Quebec. “It’s essential that we protect academic freedom from any government intervention—this time and every time.”

Union members further criticized what they described as Déry’s lack of regard for the CEGEP network, which they say has been blindsided by a series of austerity measures since August.

“We’re not just reacting to this one incident,” said Poulin-Lamarre. “We’re drawing a line—this kind of censorship has no place in our institutions.”