Author name: The West Quebec Post

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

A legal argument now before the Supreme Court of Canada could redefine how governments
use the Notwithstanding Clause, with potentially far-reaching consequences for civil liberties
and language rights across the country.

The Task Force on Linguistic Policy, a resident-led group advocating for English-speaking
Quebecers, has submitted a legal brief urging the Court to rule that governments cannot use the
clause to erase core rights and freedoms. Their intervention comes in the ongoing legal
challenge to Quebec’s Bill 21, which bars public workers in positions of authority from wearing
religious symbols.

While the case itself is focused on secularism, the Task Force’s submission focuses on the
broader issue of how Section 33 of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, known as the
Notwithstanding Clause, is being used. The Quebec government has invoked the clause to
shield both Bill 21 and Bill 96. Bill 96 is a controversial law that restricts access to English in
education, health care, and government services.

“The government is using this clause to sidestep the Charter altogether,” said Andrew Caddell,
president of the Task Force. “We’re asking the Supreme Court to make clear that some rights
are so fundamental they cannot simply be overridden.”

The Task Force argues that the Charter, introduced in 1982, did not create new rights but
instead confirmed longstanding protections rooted in Canadian and British legal traditions.
These include freedom of expression, equality before the law, and the protection of minority
groups. These values existed before the Charter and continue to guide Canadian law.

Their legal brief, prepared by constitutional lawyer Michael Bergman, argues that even when a
government uses the Notwithstanding Clause, it should not have the authority to remove all
legal protections. Courts, they say, must continue to uphold deeper constitutional principles,
such as the rule of law and respect for minorities.

Vice President Geoffrey Chambers said the group is not asking for compensation or special
treatment. “We’re simply asking the Court to confirm that basic rights don’t disappear just
because a government says so.” He added, “This is not just about legal theory. It’s about
protecting the kind of society we all want to live in.”

Photo: A Supreme Court case could decide whether Quebec’s government can use the
Notwithstanding Clause to override fundamental rights, including those protecting English-
speaking communities. (TF) Photo: Tashi Farmilo

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

Art de l’Ordinaire is preparing to host its annual Automn’Art exhibition, bringing together over 30
artists from across the Outaouais region for a vibrant celebration of visual arts. Taking place
September 20 and 21, from 10 am to 4 pm, the event will be held at the Cantley Multifunctional
Community Centre, located at 6 Impasse des Étoiles. Admission is free.

This year’s edition will showcase works across a variety of disciplines, including painting,
sculpture, photography, drawing, mosaic, stained glass, and textile art. Visitors are invited to
immerse themselves in the creative worlds of local talents, meet the artists in person, and
explore a wide range of original work.

In addition to the visual art exhibition, Automn’Art will feature several free painting workshops on
Sunday, with a session for adults from 10 am to noon and one for children from 1 pm to 3 pm.
Registration is available online at artdelordinaire.com.

The atmosphere will be enhanced with live musical performances throughout the weekend, and
a new feature this year – tastings of local beers and mocktails will be offered on Saturday
between noon and 4 pm. Attendees can also enter a draw for the chance to win one of two
original artworks.

Artists featured in this year’s edition include: Christine Bertrand, Claire Racette, Claudette
Gratton, Corinne Bernollin, Daniel Cogné, Daniel St-Cyr, Danielle Clément-Larose, Danielle
Lauzon, Diane Marcil, Eric Trottier, Jeanne Beaudry Tardif, Joanne Lacroix, Josee Francoeur,
Julie Brown, Julio Benitez, Line Desloges, Lise Grenier Rouleau, Lise Leblanc, Marie Dechêne,
Martin Champagne, Martine Labelle, Maude Litalien, Michel Bertrand, Monique Pelletier,
Nathalie Duchesne, Nicolle Legault, Pierre Gagnon, Raymond Charette, René-Lyne Charlebois
Emery, Stephanie Browness, Valérie Racette, Yolande Cloutier, Sonia Kezar and Christiane
Boulanger.

Organized entirely by volunteers, Art de l’Ordinaire has worked since 2003 to promote the
cultural richness of Cantley through inclusive and accessible community events. Automn’Art is
one of three major annual gatherings hosted by the association, alongside the Marché de Noël
and the Marché des créateurs et des jeunes apprentis.

For more details and registration, visit www.artdelordinaire.com or follow updates at
facebook.com/artdelordinairecantley.

Photo: Among the featured artists at Automn’Art is Pierre Gagnon, known for his bold use of
colour, whimsical semi-abstract acrylic works, and a distinctive style that blends playful energy
with visual harmony. (TF) Photo: Courtesy of the Art de l’Ordinaire – Cantley Facebook page

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

A new summit focused on the often-overlooked issue of post-separation violence will be held
later this month in Quebec City, with online access available to residents across the province.
Organized by Le Havre de Solyane, the event takes place on September 20 at 9:00 am at La
Scène Lebourgneuf.

Post-separation violence refers to ongoing abuse that occurs after a relationship has ended. It
can involve threats, coercion, stalking, legal harassment, or manipulation of children and
finances. While not always physical, such violence often leaves survivors facing prolonged fear,
instability, and isolation. Organizers say the summit aims to bring attention to a form of abuse
that remains largely misunderstood or overlooked by public institutions.

The day-long event will feature a keynote address by Ingrid Falaise, author of the bestselling
memoir Le Monstre , who has spoken publicly about her own experience with intimate partner
violence. A panel discussion with experts from across the Francophonie will follow, along with
presentations by local support organizations and a screening of a documentary segment.
Former Canadian senator Pierre-Hugues Boisvenu will serve as honourary chair.

Although the summit includes participation from legal, health, and social service professionals, it
is open to the general public. Survivors, families, and concerned residents are encouraged to
attend. A limited number of free tickets are available for survivors, along with discounted rates
for non-profit groups. All registered attendees, whether attending in person or online, will receive
access to recordings and presentation materials.

Proceeds from the summit will support the creation of what organizers describe as Quebec’s
first in-person resource centre focused exclusively on post-separation violence. Additional funds
will help expand direct services and develop tools for frontline professionals.

For registration and event details, visit sommetsurlaviolencepostseparation.eventbrite.com.
Donations can be made at solyane.com/donate.

Photo: A province-wide summit in Quebec City on September 20 will bring survivors, experts,
and the public together, in person and online, to confront the often-overlooked issue of post-
separation violence and explore lasting solutions. (TF) Photo: Courtesy of Le Havre de Solyane

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

Regional stakeholders in the Outaouais are set to begin a consultation process that could shape
the future of conservation across the region’s public lands.

The Conseil régional de l’environnement et du développement durable de l’Outaouais
(CREDDO) has launched a year-and-a-half-long initiative to evaluate 47 proposed protected
areas. The consultations are part of Quebec’s Plan nature 2030, which aims to protect 30 per
cent of both terrestrial and marine territory by the end of the decade. Currently, Quebec protects
approximately 16.7 per cent of its land and freshwater territory, while the Outaouais region
remains at just over 10 per cent.

“This is a major moment for the Outaouais,” said Benoit Delage, executive director of CREDDO.
“These consultations are about building consensus and identifying natural areas that matter, not
only for biodiversity, but for local communities as well.”

With more than 78 per cent of its 30,000-square-kilometre territory covered in forest, the
Outaouais plays a key role in maintaining ecological corridors and supporting species at risk.
The region’s rivers, wetlands, and old-growth forests also provide vital ecosystem services and
cultural value, but are increasingly under pressure from development, land-use change, and
habitat fragmentation.

Among the 47 proposals under review, several areas have been publicly identified by regional
conservation groups such as CPAWS – Outaouais for their ecological value and strategic
importance. These include the Noire and Coulonge Rivers, Lac Brûlé, Lac Dumont, ZEC
Saint – Patrice, the Poussière River, the eastern Coulonge River, Presqu’île du Lac à l’Indienne,
and the rare alvar habitats in Bristol and Clarendon.

Unlike open public hearings, the consultations will take place in closed sessions. Invitations
have been sent to municipalities, regional county municipalities (MRCs), Indigenous
communities, and environmental groups. According to CREDDO, this format is designed to
allow for constructive, respectful dialogue among those directly involved in land-use decisions.
The process began with an online information session on September 10. A series of working
groups, referred to as tables de concertation, will begin meeting on October 1 and continue
through spring 2026. Final recommendations will be submitted to Quebec’s Ministry of the
Environment in December 2026.

Environment Minister Benoit Charette has underscored the importance of regional knowledge in
driving conservation efforts. “Several protected area projects are currently on the table. We
need the knowledge of local and regional actors, municipalities, MRCs, and Indigenous
communities to identify the initiatives that will be most beneficial for nature and local
populations,” he said. “We’re asking people who live on this land to help us decide how to ​
protect it, because when conservation is rooted in regional expertise, it becomes a tool for both
environmental and community resilience.”

Photo: A new round of closed-door consultations in the Outaouais will bring together regional
stakeholders to evaluate 47 proposed protected areas, aiming to balance biodiversity
conservation with local priorities as part of Quebec’s Plan nature 2030. (TF) Photo: Courtesy of
Quebec’s Plan nature 2030

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

The newly released Portrait global de l’eau 2025 offers a sobering look at the state of freshwater
across Quebec, with several findings that resonate deeply in the Outaouais region. Published by
the Ministry of the Environment, the report highlights declining water quality, biodiversity loss,
and the growing impacts of climate change—all playing out in lakes, rivers, and wetlands that
define much of life in the Pontiac and Outaouais.

One of the most concerning examples lies in the watersheds that flow into the Ottawa River.
The Rivière Noire, which runs through Waltham, and the Petite Rivière Rouge, near Chénéville,
both received poor ratings for water quality. According to the report, these rivers are heavily
affected by agricultural activity—namely, runoff containing phosphorus, nitrates, and faecal
coliforms from corn and soya farming, livestock manure, and insufficiently protected
streambanks. Both rivers are part of the larger Petite-Nation and Coulonge watershed groups,
which the province lists among the sectors under “very high pressure” due to cumulative human
activity.

The region’s lakes aren’t faring much better. Lac Simon, located in Duhamel, is flagged as one
of the 16 lakes in Quebec with recurring cyanobacterial blooms. Sampling in the lake revealed
high phosphorus concentrations during the summer months—levels that pose risks to both
aquatic life and recreational use. Lac Leslie, in Otter Lake, is also cited as having poor water
quality, particularly due to phosphorus enrichment tied to shoreline development and watershed
disturbance.

Climate stress is no longer theoretical. The report documents summer water shortages in
Shawville and Mansfield-et-Pontefract in 2020, 2021, and 2023. These shortages are linked to
extended dry spells, more frequent heat waves, and aging water supply infrastructure.
According to monitoring data, several small systems in the region are already approaching
critical thresholds for availability during drought years.

Biodiversity trends are equally grim. The map turtle, which depends on undisturbed sandbanks
along the Ottawa River, is listed as “vulnerable.” The Hickorynut mussel, a species once
abundant in the river, has seen sharp declines, attributed to damming and water pollution. The
Outaouais is identified as one of the zones where aquatic biodiversity is under the most
pressure, particularly from shoreline degradation, increased water temperatures, and invasive
species.

Yet not all news is bleak. The report highlights successful restoration efforts along the Coulonge
River, coordinated by the watershed group OBV RPNS (Organisme de bassins versants des
rivières du Pontiac, du Nord-Est et de la Serpent) in partnership with local community members.
These initiatives have led to measurable improvements in riverbank stability and fish habitat.
Through actions such as planting native vegetation, removing invasive species, and reinforcing ​
vulnerable shorelines, the group has delivered what the Ministry calls a model for low-cost,
community-driven watershed restoration.

What emerges from the Portrait global de l’eau 2025 is clear: local waters are in trouble, but
recovery is within reach. As the report puts it, “The health of water in Quebec will depend on a
collective ability to recognize its value and to act accordingly.”

Photo: A new provincial water report reveals worsening pollution, biodiversity loss, and climate-
related stress in local waterways, with the Ottawa River and its tributaries showing some of the
most troubling signs of decline. (TF) Photo: Tashi Farmilo

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

Quebec continues to stand out in Canada’s newspaper world. According to the 2025 Snapshot
report from News Media Canada, Quebec is home to 220 newspaper titles and prints around
8.7 million copies every week—more than any other province. Across the country, nearly 24
million newspaper copies are circulated weekly, with over 800 different titles.

A big reason Quebec’s numbers are so strong is that many of its newspapers are delivered for
free. Across Canada, about 55 per cent of newspapers are given out at no cost, while 45 per
cent are sold. In Quebec, this free model plays an important role in helping local and community
papers reach readers, whether through the mail or picked up in stores and cafes. It keeps
readership steady, even as more people get their news online or skip subscriptions.

In 2025, Canada had 750 community newspaper titles, putting out 766 different editions each
week. Most of these papers use the smaller, more convenient tabloid format, which is easier
and cheaper to produce than the larger broadsheet style. Around 8.5 million copies of
community newspapers are printed every week, and almost all are distributed free of charge.

Quebec’s newspapers also tend to reach more people per edition than those in many other
parts of the country. That shows that readers are still strongly connected to their local news
sources, especially in smaller towns and bilingual areas where national media often doesn’t
cover local issues. The balance between paid and free papers in Quebec seems to help
maintain that connection.

There are a few reasons Quebec’s newspaper scene is holding on while others shrink.
Ownership in the province is mixed between large companies and smaller independent
publishers. That means readers get a wider range of perspectives and reporting styles.
Quebec’s mix of French, English, and bilingual communities also helps support a variety of local
papers that speak directly to their readers.

Still, not everything is rosy. Like in the rest of Canada, many local newspapers have been
closing, especially in smaller communities. Nearly three-quarters of the 571 local news outlets
that shut down between 2008 and 2025 were community newspapers. Quebec has not been
spared from this trend, and more areas are being left without local news coverage, what
researchers call “news deserts.”

In short, Quebec’s newspapers are doing better than most. Strong circulation, smart distribution,
and local ownership have kept many of the province’s papers alive and well. But the steady loss
of small-town newsrooms is a warning sign. If communities want to stay informed—community
journalism will need continued support from readers, advertisers and government.​

Photo: At a time when many local papers across Canada are disappearing, Quebec’s
community newspapers continue to reach readers and keep neighbourhood stories alive. (TF)
Photo: Tashi Farmilo

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

The newly formed Local History Committee of the Western Quebec Region has been
established to preserve and promote the history of the region’s English-speaking communities,
with an emphasis on ensuring their contributions to Quebec are neither forgotten nor excluded
from the public record.

Convened on September 3, the committee brought together historians, educators, journalists,
community leaders, and residents from across the region. The formation was led by Linton
Garner, chair of the Quebec Association of Local History Committees, and Brian Rock, vice
chair of the same association and a longtime advocate for historical education.

At the heart of the initiative is a concern that anglophone contributions to the development of
Quebec have been neglected in both public discourse and the provincial curriculum. The
committee aims to address this by identifying local archives, cataloguing family and community
records, and working with schools to integrate English-speaking history into formal education.

“We’re seeing too many examples of local archives being hidden away, forgotten, or scattered in
private hands,” Rock said during the meeting. “Our goal is to document, preserve, and share the
stories that have shaped this region.”

The Local History Committee of the Western Quebec Region plans to create a public directory
of English-language historical records, encourage digitization efforts, and establish partnerships
with educators and school boards. The long-term goal is to ensure the region’s historical
narrative reflects the communities that built it—including those whose stories have often been
overlooked.

The committee was officially formed by unanimous vote, and a steering committee has been
appointed to begin its work. Similar local committees are expected to follow in other regions
under the umbrella of the Quebec Association of Local History Committees.

“We want this to be more than preservation,” Garner said. “It’s about cultural continuity, civic
education, and asserting the rightful place of English-speaking Quebecers in the province’s past
and future.”

Photo: The Local History Committee of the Western Quebec Region has been established to
preserve English-speaking heritage, document local archives, and ensure anglophone
contributions are reflected in Quebec’s historical narrative and school curriculum. (TF) Photo:
Screenshot of the Local History Committee of the Western Quebec Region zoom meeting on
September 3, 2025

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

Mount Lorne rises above the Gatineau River like a sentinel of another age, its wooded slopes
still sheltering trees more than 200 years old and a riverside untouched by the wave of
development that has swept much of the region. For generations, the mountain has inspired
artists, drawn hikers and naturalists, and stood as a reminder of Cantley’s heritage. Today, it is
at the centre of a fierce battle over its future.

The controversy stems from the Nature 360 project, a proposed residential subdivision by
Rivière Mont-Cascades Inc., led by Pierre-Hughes Fortin, who also owns the Mont-Cascades
golf course. The plan envisions carving roads and homes across the mountain’s ridges and
shoreline, including stretches of land that geologists note are unstable clay deposits left behind
by the ancient Champlain Sea. Opponents say the development threatens not only a fragile
ecosystem but also a piece of the community’s identity.

Mount Lorne’s story is steeped in culture as much as it is in nature. It takes its name from Lord
Lorne, Canada’s Governor General from 1878 to 1883, who often visited the Gatineau Valley.
Between 1904 and 1960, Group of Seven painters J. E. H. MacDonald and A. Y. Jackson set up
their easels here, capturing the shifting light over the river and hills. The site also holds traces of
the region’s logging era, with remnants of timber drives still visible along the shoreline.

The mountain’s ecological importance is equally striking. More than 200 species of plants and
animals, including several at-risk species, have been documented in the area using iNaturalist.
Its 1.5-kilometre stretch of untouched shoreline is the last of its kind between Wakefield and the
Chelsea Dam, making it a rare sanctuary for biodiversity and one of the few remaining
opportunities for future public access to the Gatineau River.

Yet despite these qualities, the development has edged forward. The Quebec Ministry of the
Environment recently authorized preparatory work in natural areas connected to Nature 360
South, although a wetlands permit has not been issued. Cantley’s municipal staff referred the
revised proposal to an external urban planning firm due to internal staffing constraints. The
council rejected the original plan in April 2023, but the revised version is now under review and
may return to the council floor by September 16, the final meeting before municipal elections.

At the centre of the conflict is a legal disagreement. The developers claim the project is
protected by acquired rights, which would exempt it from the 2020 MRC des Collines land use
plan that prohibits new roads in recreational and tourism zones. However, critics contend those
rights do not apply.

“Acquired rights only exist in specific cases where all necessary formalities were completed
before the regulatory change, which is not the case with Nature 360,” said Denise Giroux, a
long-time Cantley resident and organizer of the petition opposing the project. “If the municipality
approves this, it is exposing itself to legal and moral liability.”​

Giroux and co-organizer Michel Junger have indicated they are prepared to challenge the
project in court. A legal brief is already in preparation and a defence fund is being organized,
though supporters have been asked to pledge their assistance rather than contribute funds until
formal proceedings begin.

“Our goal is not to sue the municipality. Our goal is to stop this project before irreversible
damage is done,” Giroux said. “But if council insists on ignoring their own bylaws and the
science in front of them, we are ready.”

The petition launched by SOS Mount Lorne has now gathered 3,397 signatures from Cantley
residents and those across the MRC des Collines. It calls on Mayor David Gomes, the municipal
council, and MRC prefect Marc Carrière to reject the project outright or at minimum delay any
decision until after the election. The petition stresses the ecological and cultural value of Mount
Lorne and urges the municipality to consider establishing a public nature park instead, which
would provide river access the public currently lacks despite the Gatineau River featuring on
Cantley’s official logo.

For Giroux, the stakes are deeply personal. She grew up in Niagara, where she witnessed fruit
orchards being replaced by housing developments. “We thought it would be temporary, but it
never came back. Once it’s gone, it’s gone,” she said. “I don’t want to see that happen here. We
have something rare, and it’s worth protecting.”
According to a source close to the opposition effort, developers have contacted residents
directly to explain their interpretation of zoning laws, a move believed to be quietly encouraged
by certain members of council.

Requests for comment sent to Mayor Gomes and Cantley councillors over the past two weeks
have gone unanswered.

Photo: A petition with 3,397 verified signatures to date, is calling on Cantley’s council to reject
the Nature 360 project and preserve Mount Lorne’s last wild shoreline and forested slopes. (TF)
Photo: Courtesy

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

Vitrine Voix Francophone en Outaouais debuts at the Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival from
August 29 to 31, introducing a curated platform for emerging francophone musicians from the
Outaouais. Presented by the FMG and Culture Outaouais and produced by Les Productions
Coin d’Table in collaboration with Le Chapiteau Francophone, the initiative combines
performance, mentorship and professional development.

Four artists are featured in the inaugural edition: Sofia Duhaime, Geneviève RB, Romie
Lacasse and Mia Kelly. They will take part in a workshop on musical self-production with
composer and producer Jeannot Bournival, an artistic mentorship with singer-songwriter
Andréanne A. Malette, and a networking and discovery panel on August 31.

Sofia Duhaime, originally from Gatineau and now based in Montreal, released her debut album
Lune d’argent earlier this year. Her sound blends folk, chanson, country and rock, and she has
performed alongside acts such as TALK and The Franklin Electric. Her earlier EP L’enfant
established her as a thoughtful lyricist with a strong melodic instinct.

Geneviève RB brings over a decade of experience through her work with the folk-pop duo
Geneviève et Alain. The pair received multiple Trille Or (golden trillium) awards and won Best
Francophone Songwriter at the 2023 Canadian Folk Music Awards.

Romie Lacasse and Mia Kelly, both from the Outaouais, round out the line-up. Kelly is known for
her bilingual songwriting and has appeared at Festival en chanson de Petite-Vallée and Ottawa
Bluesfest. Lacasse, a classically trained vocalist, is emerging through local showcases and
independent releases.

The showcase concludes with Entre elles, a collaborative performance scheduled for August 31
at 5:15 pm on the Scène Hydro-Québec. Led by Malette, the concert features six young female
singers: Romie Lacasse, Sofia Duhaime, Marie Laperle, Mirani Coehlo, Ange-Élie Ménard and
Samantha Neves.

“The Vitrine is a way to create lasting connections among young artists and the wider musical
ecosystem,” said Jeannot Bournival, who coordinates the initiative. “It reflects a growing
commitment to artistic development and cross-sector collaboration,” added Julie Martineau,
director general of Culture Outaouais.

Photo: Vitrine Voix Francophone en Outaouais debuts at the Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival,
showcasing emerging francophone artists from the Outaouais through mentorship, professional
development, and a show featuring Andréanne A. Malette, Romie Lacasse, Sofia Duhaime,
Marie Laperle, Mirani Coehlo, Ange-Élie Ménard and Samantha Neves (TF) Photo: Courtesy of
the Hot Air Balloon Festival.

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

A national Zoom session hosted by the Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council brought
together farmers, employers, and leaders from across the country to share new research on
women in agriculture and discuss practical steps for supporting their advancement in the sector.

The session was part of CAHRC’s new series called From Field to Boardroom , which aims to
help women in agriculture build skills, networks, and confidence. The council’s latest data
reflects a decade of progress, alongside persistent barriers that many women still face,
especially when juggling farm work with caregiving, family responsibilities, or off-farm
employment.

Rebecca Balsdon, who chaired the session, manages stakeholder engagement at CAHRC and
co-manages a dairy farm in Clarendon, Quebec. Speaking during the webinar, she shared that
the work is personally meaningful, adding that she too understands the day-to-day demands
women face in agriculture.

The 2025 findings were drawn from a national survey that reached 463 people in the agriculture
sector, with 92 per cent identifying as women. The goal was to compare the results with
CAHRC’s 2015 survey, using the same questions to better understand how experiences have
changed over time. Researchers also conducted follow-up interviews, focus groups, and a
review of other recent studies to confirm what the data showed.

In the workplaces represented by the survey participants, women now hold 42 per cent of
decision-making roles, up from 34.8 per cent ten years ago. But board leadership remains
harder to access, with women accounting for just over a quarter of board chairs. That figure is
an improvement from 2015 but still leaves many women without a seat at the table where long-
term decisions are made.

The research also found that younger women reported facing more barriers than older
respondents. Those challenges included feeling shut out of informal networks, being
underestimated, and struggling to balance work and caregiving. The survey pointed to a need
for flexible meeting schedules, travel support, and more family-inclusive planning across the
sector.

What many saw as the most promising part of the webinar was the focus on solutions that
already work. CAHRC highlighted its Event Fund, which supported 22 locally led activities in 10
provinces and reached more than 890 women. These events covered practical topics like tractor
safety, farm finance, mental health, and leadership. Selection committee members said
proposals were chosen based on how well they helped women connect, share, and build skills.
The conversation also included partners from Farm Credit Canada and Syngenta, who spoke
about using shared research to guide investment and expand training. There was agreement ​
that long-term change depends on cooperation between government, industry, and local
organizations, not just individual effort.

The From Field to Boardroom webinar series takes place on the third Thursday of each month
at noon. The next sessions are scheduled for September 18 and October 16. Full details,
registration information, and event updates are available at cahrc-ccrha.ca or through CAHRC’s
Facebook page at facebook.com/CdnAgHRCouncil.

Photo: The From Field to Boardroom webinar, hosted by the Canadian Agricultural Human
Resource Council, brought together voices from across the country to share new data and
practical steps aimed at improving opportunities for women in agriculture. (TF) Photo:
screenshot of the From Field to Boardroom webinar

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

Wakefield’s turntable park, officially Parc Roquebrune, has been at the centre of community
discussion this summer. The municipality of La Pêche launched an online consultation running
from July 1 to September 5, which has so far gathered more than 2,300 votes, and feedback
from 156 participants.

Alongside the digital platform, residents also had the opportunity to speak directly with municipal
staff at a workshop on August 14 and at a kiosk in the park on August 16. Sylvain Henry, who
attended both, said he appreciated the effort to reach people in person. “Many residents
stopped to share their views, and I was pleased that every suggestion, including mine, was
carefully noted,” he said. “It is important to have these face-to-face consultations because not
everyone will participate online.”

The options presented ranged from expanded swimming areas and renovated washrooms to
additional picnic space, a community stage for concerts, a tourism kiosk, and changes to
parking. One of the most detailed proposals came from Stanley Britton, a local heritage
advocate, who suggested a playground shaped like Wakefield’s steam engine and a deck built
over the turntable to preserve it as a feature of the park.

The future of the railway tracks remains uncertain. Henry said he suspects the rails may be
removed, but he urged caution. “I reminded municipal staff of the high costs associated with
removing the rails in Chelsea,” he explained. “Such a decision here could be equally costly.”
Mayor Guillaume Lamoureux has described Parc Roquebrune as one of La Pêche’s most
visited parks and emphasized the importance of ensuring it serves the needs of both residents
and visitors. Council is expected to decide on the redesign in the first week of September, just
before the municipal election. “I was told that four councillors will not be seeking re-election,
which will create a significant change on council,” said Henry.

Henry left the consultation with a sense of optimism. “What impressed me most was the
seriousness with which ideas were gathered,” he said. “Every comment was recorded, and it
was encouraging to see how many people were engaged in shaping the future of the park.”
Residents are invited to share their vision for the park at lapecheconsulte.ca until the end of the
consultation period on September 5.

Photo: Residents gathered at Parc Roquebrune on August 16 for a public consultation to share
their ideas and concerns about the park’s future (TF) Photo: Screenshot of Sylvain Henry’s
video on Facebook

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

According to the Quebec Cannabis Survey (EQC 2023), 17 per cent of Quebecers aged 15 and
over reported using cannabis in the year before, and nearly one-third of them said they did so to
manage health problems. Anxiety, depression, chronic pain, headaches, and insomnia were the
most cited reasons. The survey underscores that while cannabis is often perceived as
beneficial, its effects remain complex, with users weighing relief against the risk of dependency,
impaired concentration, or worsening symptoms.

The report highlights a gap in scientific literature. Few studies have explored the nuances of
cannabis use for self-management; habits, contexts, and the role of professional guidance
remain poorly documented. For the National Institute of Public Health of Quebec, which
commissioned the study, this lack of evidence points to the need for clearer communication and
targeted information for those who turn to cannabis for health reasons.

In the Outaouais, health authorities say the provincial findings reflect what they see on the
ground. The Centre intégré de santé et de services sociaux de l’Outaouais (CISSSO) notes that
youth sometimes report using cannabis as a form of self-care. Although specific data on ages
12 to 17 are lacking, practitioners encounter young people who describe turning to cannabis to
cope with stress, anxiety, or sleep disturbances.

“We often see young people using cannabis to regulate their emotions or manage pain, but it is
rarely guided by medical advice,” CISSSO said. “For some, it is perceived as a safer or more
accessible option than medication, but the potential health impacts are not always well
understood.”

CISSSO frames its approach around the bio-psycho-social model, which seeks to address not
only physical symptoms but also the psychological and social contexts in which cannabis is
used. This means interventions are adapted to each individual, with a focus on reducing harm
and promoting informed decision-making. Front-line staff often collaborate with doctors, nurses,
social workers, and educators, even accompanying clients to medical appointments to ensure
continuity of care.

Educational efforts are a central piece of the response. The Semaine de prévention des
dépendances reaches youth aged 12 to 24 with evidence-based information on cannabis and
other substances. Campaigns such as À deux doigts de ta limite frame cannabis use within
broader health and lifestyle choices, while school-based initiatives encourage early reflection on
substance use and its impacts.

In 2023, CISSSO hosted conferences in the Vallée-de-la-Lièvre that brought together
professionals and community members to discuss both recreational and therapeutic cannabis.
“What came through strongly in those discussions was that cannabis could not be reduced to ​
good or bad,” CISSSO said. “Young people in particular need nuanced information that takes
into account both the potential benefits and the risks.”

The Quebec Cannabis Survey echoes that sentiment, noting that self-care practices are often
influenced by peers, family members, and information gleaned from the internet. Many
respondents felt the information they had received about cannabis and health management was
insufficient.

For CISSSO, this gap makes prevention and early intervention even more urgent. Tools such as
the DEP-ADO questionnaire are used in schools and youth services to identify problematic use
patterns quickly, allowing practitioners to intervene before issues escalate. “The earlier we can
provide support, the better the outcomes,” CISSSO said.

Photo: Seventeen per cent of Quebecers use cannabis, with a third citing self-management of
health issues, a pattern echoed in the Outaouais where the CISSSO observes youth turning to it
for anxiety, sleep problems, and pain relief, while calling for earlier intervention and better public
education. (TF) Photo: Courtesy of the National Institute of Public Health of Quebec

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

CIMA+, one of Quebec’s most prominent private consulting engineering firms, has appointed
Hull Island resident Mathieu Bélanger as Vice-President of Environment and Earth Sciences.
From the company’s Gatineau office, he will lead more than 200 specialists in environmental
services, geosciences, geotechnics and urban planning, whose work spans communities across
Canada.

Founded in Montreal in 1990, CIMA+ has grown from a local engineering practice into a national
firm with 40 offices and more than 3,500 employees, most of whom are shareholders. The
company has been recognized for its workplace culture and for award-winning infrastructure
and environmental projects.

Bélanger returns to CIMA+ with more than two decades of leadership in urban planning, real
estate development, public policy and infrastructure. His career includes senior roles in the
federal government, Executive Director of Policy and Public Affairs at the Federation of
Canadian Municipalities, and Director of Planning and Sustainable Development for the City of
Gatineau.

“What struck me most during my time in Gatineau was the quality, competence and dedication
of municipal employees,” he said. “They work with rigour and passion, often under great
pressure, to support the city’s growth while preserving its quality of life.” That experience, he
added, strengthened his ability to connect political vision with community needs and the realities
of development.

Bélanger described his new post as both a professional challenge and a personal commitment.
“This is much more than a return. It’s a commitment to providing sustainable and innovative
solutions to our public and private partners across the country.”

He succeeds Raymond McNamara, who is retiring after years of leadership but will remain as
an advisor during the transition. “As a Gatineau resident and someone living on Hull Island, I
want to keep getting involved in local initiatives that link environment, quality of life and local
development,” Bélanger said.

Photo: Hull Island resident Mathieu Bélanger has been named Vice-President of Environment
and Earth Sciences at CIMA+, bringing more than two decades of experience to lead the firm’s
national team from Gatineau. (TF) Photo: Courtesy of the City of Gatineau

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

Outaouais athletes turned the 59 th Finale des Jeux du Québec into a week-long display of
determination, talent and poise. Facing the province’s best in a charged atmosphere of
competition and camaraderie, they amassed 31 medals, secured third place overall, and left a
lasting impression for the way they competed and the spirit they brought to every event.

“Our road cycling team dominated the competition and won first place in the sport; our artistic
swimming team earned the banner for sportsmanship; our mountain biking team claimed
second place; and our closing ceremony flag bearer Mariane Boyer won a medal in every open-
water swimming event she entered,” said Amélie Simard of Loisir sport Outaouais.

On the road, Julia Langeveld, Olivier Drolet, Anna Mercier, Maxence Lafontaine and Vincent-
Xavier Veilleux combined to take gold in the relay, with Langeveld adding three silver medals
and Julianne Gauthier earning two golds and a silver. Jon Mercier claimed gold and bronze
across road and mountain events, while Mahée Mignault left with gold and bronze. In the
mountains, Benjamin Brûlé struck gold in the individual race before teaming with Mercier to win
the relay, and Charlotte Wagner collected silver in her category. Adréa Beaulieu joined Wagner
for bronze in the mountain bike relay.

In the pool, Charly Birolleau-Sgard returned with two silvers and a gold, Aleni Brochu claimed
silver, and Kinan Jasem Radhe earned bronze. On the track, Amy Roy and Robin Allard each
took bronze in athletics. In BMX, Lydiane Lafleur collected two bronzes while Clément Landry
secured another.

Chef de Mission Charles-André Larocque emphasized that while the results were remarkable,
the Games’ real value lay in their impact on the athletes: “The Games represent a significant
human experience. It is an opportunity to develop connections, openness and human qualities
that will leave a lasting impression.”

Photo: Outaouais athletes from the first block set off with excitement and determination for the
59 th Finale des Jeux du Québec on July 25, 2025, ready to compete, represent their region, and
make their mark. (TF) Photo: Courtesy of Loisir sport Outaouais

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

The Association des femmes immigrantes de l’Outaouais (AFIO) has opened its doors in
Aylmer, offering a new lifeline to immigrant women through a partnership with the Maison
communautaire d’Aylmer and the Partenaires du Secteur Aylmer (PSA). The move comes as
the neighbourhood sees a steady rise in newcomer families and a growing demand for culturally
sensitive support close to home.

Operating out of 61 rue du Couvent, AFIO’s new office brings a range of services directly to
Aylmer residents, from help navigating local resources to psychosocial support and French
language learning. The organization’s executive director, Bettyna Bélizaire, says the expansion
is part of a broader mission to reduce isolation and foster meaningful integration.

“In addition to referring families to local services, we guide them through registration processes,
provide emotional and material support, and offer in-house referrals when needed,” said
Bélizaire. “But more than that, we create spaces where women feel seen and heard.”

Programming is already underway. AFIO hosted its first “Bonjour Aylmer” meeting on July 31, for
Arabic-speaking women recently arrived in the area. The session introduced participants to local
institutions and services, while providing a space to ask questions and build connections with
others navigating similar experiences.

Workshops will follow throughout the summer and fall, including informal French practice
sessions, mental health discussions on stress and depression, and peer-led events by
immigrants with professional expertise. One upcoming session will cover graphic design using
Canva, another will focus on crafting Canadian-style CVs. Sessions will be led by women
who’ve successfully navigated these challenges themselves.

AFIO’s approach is deliberately flexible. “Our workshops evolve with the needs we see,” said
Bélizaire. “We don’t impose a fixed model. If we meet someone with a particular skill or concern,
we build from that.”

Locals familiar with Aylmer’s changing demographics may already recognize some of the
challenges immigrant women face: language barriers that complicate everything from job
searches to school meetings, cultural gaps between generations, and the persistent strain of
financial insecurity. AFIO’s team works to address these with practical solutions: offering
culinary workshops using food bank staples, encouraging volunteerism as a gateway to social
engagement, and improving access to professional resources through targeted referrals.

The organization, now marking its 40th year, has been a key player in supporting immigrant
integration across the Outaouais. Its arrival in Aylmer addresses a clear need in the community
and is backed by a network of dedicated volunteers and local partners. AFIO’s services focus on
immigrant women and many programmes also extend to their families, including spouses and ​
children. This inclusive approach reflects the belief that integration is most successful when it
involves the entire household.

AFIO welcomes walk-ins every Thursday from 8:30 – 4:30 pm. Appointments can also be
scheduled by phone at 819-776-6764 or by email at info@afio.ca .
For Bélizaire, the goal is simple: “We’re building a space of trust, support, and belonging—right
here in the heart of Aylmer.”

Photo: The Association des femmes immigrantes de l’Outaouais has launched a new
community hub in Aylmer to provide immigrant women with direct access to support services,
language workshops, and integration programmes tailored to their needs. (TF) Photo: Courtesy

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

A major drug trafficking investigation has led to a record cocaine seizure and the arrest of five
individuals in the Gatineau and Masson-Angers sectors. Nearly 40 kilograms of cocaine, with an
estimated street value of $4 million, were seized during the operation.

The investigation began on July 9, when Simon-Didier Perron, 26, of Gatineau, was arrested
during a vehicle stop in Montreal with the cooperation of Gatineau and Montreal Police. Officers
seized nearly 40 kilograms of cocaine. Perron was released following this initial arrest.

The investigation advanced with the execution of five search warrants for two apartments and
three residences in Gatineau on July 16. The raids involved the intervention group and a canine
unit. Perron was arrested again at one of the search locations. He appeared in court the next
day to face several charges, including trafficking a controlled substance, possession of cocaine
and other substances for the purpose of trafficking, possession of a prohibited firearm, and
multiple firearms-related offences.

The searches resulted in the seizure of approximately 40 kilograms of cocaine, 1,890 grams of
methamphetamine, a .45 calibre pistol, ammunition, a 2021 Mercedes GLB, small quantities of
GHB and cannabis, several mobile phones, and various items linked to drug distribution.
This operation forms part of the CENTAURE strategy, a province-wide initiative aimed at
disrupting organized crime and the trafficking of illegal firearms. The strategy brings together
police forces across Quebec to maintain coordinated pressure at the local, regional, and
provincial levels.

Gatineau Police are encouraging anyone with information related to illegal firearms or drug
trafficking to contact the confidential tip line at 819-243-4636, option 5. Information concerning
firearms offences may also be reported to the CENTAURE line at 1-833-888-2763. Individuals
worried about someone who may pose a safety risk due to firearm possession are urged to
contact the prevention line “J’ai un doute, j’appelle!” at 1-800-731-4000, options 1 and 2. In an
emergency, the public should call 911.

Photo: A major drug trafficking investigation in Gatineau has resulted in a record seizure of
cocaine, multiple arrests, and a series of charges tied to drugs and illegal firearms. (TF) Photo:
Courtesy of Gatineau Police

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

The Quebec Anglophone Heritage Network marked its 25th anniversary this year, reflecting on a
quarter-century of cultural advocacy while directing new support to the communities it was
created to serve. Founded in Lennoxville in 2000, QAHN has grown into a province-wide
network of museums, archives and historical societies devoted to preserving the heritage of
Quebec’s English-speaking communities.

To commemorate the milestone, QAHN released a special publication, adopted a new strategic
plan, and hosted public events recognizing volunteers and long-standing contributors. These
included a recent conference in Cowansville honouring heritage advocate Marion Phelps, and
an awards ceremony held at Maison Louis-Joseph Forget in Montreal. Additional anniversary
programming is scheduled for the autumn, including a virtual heritage summit, a heritage fair on
October 4 titled Stones and Stories in Morin Heights , and a public screening of QAHN-produced
documentaries at the Lac-Brome Museum in Knowlton on October 25 at 1:00 pm.

“This year has been about honouring where we’ve come from but also making sure we continue
to serve the people and institutions doing this work across Quebec,” said Matthew Farfan,
QAHN’s executive director.

Separate from the anniversary, QAHN also completed the first phase of its new SHARE
initiative, a funding programme supported by the federal Department of Canadian Heritage. In
June, more than $300,000 in micro-grants was awarded to 25 grassroots organizations across
the province working to preserve English-speaking heritage.

In West Quebec, three groups received support through the programme: Fairbairn House in
Wakefield, Aylmer Heritage Association, and the Pontiac Archives in Shawville. Each is
undertaking a locally focused project rooted in storytelling, preservation and education.
At Fairbairn House, work is underway to develop educational materials for use in local
classrooms, with a focus on the intertwined histories of anglophone, francophone and
Indigenous communities in the Gatineau Valley. In Aylmer, heritage volunteers are researching
and sharing stories related to the town’s architectural and cultural legacy. The Pontiac Archives
is digitizing wartime documents and photographs, helping preserve the military history of the
region’s residents.

The SHARE programme will continue over the next three years, with future calls for applications
planned. For Farfan, the initiative reflects QAHN’s core purpose.

“We’ve always believed in working directly with communities,” he said. “In our twenty-fifth year,
that commitment feels more important than ever.”​

Photo: Julie Miller of QAHN (second from left) visited the Pontiac Archives in Shawville, meeting
with local volunteers as part of the organization’s ongoing support for community heritage
projects through its SHARE program. (TF) Photo: Courtesy of QAHN

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

Chelsea continues to stand out. In a report released earlier this year, the Institut de la statistique
du Québec ranked the municipality among the province’s most economically robust, citing
elevated income levels, strong labour force participation and sustained demographic growth.
The Indice de vitalité économique des territoires evaluates more than 1,100 municipalities,
using three core indicators: median personal income for adults aged 18 and over, the
employment rate among those aged 25 to 64, and the average annual population growth over a
five-year period.

Chelsea, with a population of just under 9,000, performs exceptionally well across all categories.
Its residents report a median personal income of approximately $79,500, significantly higher
than the provincial average of $45,600. The municipality also benefits from a relatively young
and expanding population, as well as proximity to employment centres in Gatineau and Ottawa.
These factors have helped Chelsea emerge as one of the most economically dynamic
communities in Quebec.

Gatineau itself also performs solidly. Among Quebec’s ten largest cities, it ranks fourth in the
vitality index. The city posted a median personal income of $52,700, an employment rate above
80 per cent, and annual population growth of close to one per cent. As the main urban centre in
the region, Gatineau supports a broad labour market that includes public administration,
technology, education and health care. Its strong bilingual workforce and strategic location at
the confluence of two provinces have made it a consistent destination for new residents and
investment.

Yet, beyond this southern corridor, the outlook changes. Rural municipalities in Pontiac, Vallée-
de-la-Gatineau and parts of Papineau face more difficult conditions. In the MRC Pontiac, the
median personal income is closer to $32,500 and the employment rate among adults aged 25 to
64 is substantially lower than the provincial average. These areas have experienced slower
population growth or outright decline, and residents rely more heavily on government transfers
such as pensions, employment insurance and income support.

The Institute’s report indicates that more than half of the municipalities in northern Outaouais fall
into the two lowest quintiles of economic vitality. Contributing factors include limited public
infrastructure, long travel distances to major job markets, lower levels of educational attainment
and a narrower economic base. Many of these communities depend on seasonal or resource-
based industries such as forestry, construction and small-scale tourism, which offer limited
stability and few long-term employment prospects.

Outmigration, particularly among younger adults, continues to shape the demographic profile of
the region’s northern tier. School enrolments have declined in several municipalities, and local
employers report growing difficulty attracting and retaining skilled workers. The population is ​
aging, and municipal budgets are increasingly strained by the need to maintain essential
services with a shrinking tax base.

The Outaouais thus presents a case of internal contrast. Municipalities like Chelsea and Cantley
are among Quebec’s top performers, while others in the same administrative region continue to
face significant economic headwinds. This divergence reflects more than geography; it
underscores enduring disparities in access to infrastructure, investment and opportunity.

The Indice de vitalité économique is used by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing to
inform the distribution of development funding and guide regional policy. While the index does
not attempt to explain causation, it offers a clear diagnostic of where economic growth is taking
place and where it is not. The 2025 edition draws on data from 2022, which represents the most
recent year for which complete, validated figures were available from tax filings, census updates
and demographic estimates. The findings affirm Chelsea’s position at the forefront of the
Outaouais and expose a deepening fault line across the region.

That divide shows no sign of narrowing on its own. Without targeted policy intervention to
improve services, attract investment and retain residents in northern municipalities, the gap
between the region’s most and least prosperous communities is likely to grow.

Photo: Chelsea ranks among Quebec’s most economically dynamic municipalities, but new
provincial data reveals a deepening divide between the thriving south and struggling northern
communities of the Outaouais. (TF) Photo: Tashi Farmilo

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

A new multi-million-dollar pavilion is set to rise in Champboisé Regional Park, promising to
reshape the visitor experience and solidify the site’s status as a year-round cultural and
recreational destination in the Outaouais.

The Municipality of L’Ange-Gardien has officially launched construction on the long-anticipated
structure, a project valued at over $10 million. Designed by Provencher_Roy and slated for
completion in 2026, the pavilion will offer community gathering spaces, cultural programming
areas, washrooms, and equipment rental facilities, all while integrated into the park’s natural
landscape.

“This isn’t just about building a facility,” said Marc Louis-Seize, mayor of L’Ange-Gardien, at the
July 14 groundbreaking. “It’s about building momentum for a stronger, more connected
community.”

Funding for the project has come from a combination of provincial, regional, and private
partners. The Ministère des Affaires municipales et de l’Habitation, through the Programme
d’amélioration et de construction d’infrastructures municipales (PRACIM), is contributing
$4,519,280. The MRC des Collines-de-l’Outaouais is providing $410,000 through two streams
of the Regional and Rural Fund (FRR). Desjardins, through the Fonds du Grand Mouvement, is
adding $400,000 to the project.

“Through the Regional and Rural Fund, the MRC des Collines-de-l’Outaouais is proud to
support the creation of infrastructure that enriches our living environment,” said Marc Carrière,
Prefect of the MRC. “The new pavilion at Champboisé fits perfectly with our vision: to build
sustainable, and unifying spaces that celebrate our heritage and strengthen the dynamism of
our communities.”

The pavilion, which will remain under construction through 2025, aims to expand the park’s
capacity to host cultural programming and events throughout the year. Despite the work, the
park remains open, with visitor services relocated to a temporary reception area at the entrance.
For Desjardins, the investment is part of a broader commitment to local vitality. “The
Champboisé Regional Park project perfectly embodies the mission of the Fonds du Grand
Mouvement,” said Serge Morin, president of the Desjardins Outaouais Roundtable. “It supports
structuring initiatives that bring together and energize our communities.”

Photo: The Municipality of L’Ange-Gardien has broken ground on a $10 million pavilion at
Champboisé Regional Park, a major cultural and recreational infrastructure project backed by
provincial, regional, and private partners, with Provencher_Roy architects unveiling a striking,
contemporary design that integrates seamlessly into the park’s natural setting. (TF) Photo:
Courtesy of the Municipality of L’Ange-Gardien

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

A coalition of Quebec organizations is urging the provincial government to reconsider it
reliance on foreign technology firms to host sensitive public data, calling instead for the creation
of publicly controlled, locally governed digital infrastructure.

Backing the campaign are Co-Savoir, FACiL – pour l’appropriation collective de l’informatique
libre, le Syndicat de la fonction publique et parapublique du Québec (SFPQ), le Syndicat de
professionnelles et professionnels du gouvernement du Québec (SPGQ), and the Ligue des
droits et libertés (LDL). They argue that critical information on residents, public services, and
infrastructure is currently hosted by US-based companies such as Amazon Web Services and
Microsoft Azure, leaving it vulnerable to foreign access.

At the centre of their concerns is US legislation, including the USA PATRIOT Act ( Uniting and
Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct
Terrorism Act ) and the CLOUD Act (Clarifying Lawful Overseas Use of Data Act) , which allow
American authorities to compel data disclosure from US companies even when the data is
stored in Canada. FACiL and Co-Savoir contend that this legal exposure undermines Quebec’s
ability to enforce its own privacy standards. For the SFPQ and SPGQ, outsourcing has not only
introduced legal risk but also weakened public-sector IT capacity and the province’s ability to
manage its systems independently.

According to the campaign, Quebec has awarded over $2 billion in CLOUD computing contracts
since 2011, much of it to Microsoft and Amazon. While these arrangements were billed as cost-
effective and modernizing, the SPGQ notes that expected gains have not materialized. Failures
such as the flawed rollout of the SAAQclic platform are cited as evidence that outsourcing has
introduced complexity without improving reliability.

The campaign calls for publicly owned infrastructure based on open-source software, which
FACiL sees as essential for transparency, democratic oversight, and long-term legal security.
Supporters also stress the importance of rebuilding technical expertise within government to
reduce dependency on external providers.

Digital sovereignty is becoming a national issue. Earlier this year, Prime Minister Mark Carney
ordered a review of a 25-year federal CLOUD contract awarded exclusively to US-based
companies, following criticism from civil liberties groups and privacy advocates.

Across Europe, several governments are implementing sovereign CLOUD frameworks to
ensure public data is governed under domestic law. Quebec’s campaign echoes these
developments, arguing that digital infrastructure is inherently political and that its governance
determines how public power is exercised in the digital age.​

The declaration is available for public endorsement at liguedesdroits.ca, and organizers plan to
present the signatories to members of the National Assembly in September.

Photo: A coalition of Quebec groups is calling for public control over digital infrastructure, with
organizations like Co-Savoir urging a move away from foreign CLOUD providers toward local,
open-source solutions. (TF) Photo: Courtesy of Co-Savoir’s Facebook page.

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

At the Marché Vieux-Hull in Gatineau, where visitors come for honey, local crafts, and the
season’s best fruit and vegetables, two local authors found space to share their stories with the
community.

Didier Périès was there with Guelta: Du Sahel au rugby , a novel that follows Nana, a young
woman who leaves Mauritania for a new life across the Mediterranean. Rugby becomes her
path to belonging in an unfamiliar society while she reconciles with her past. “It’s a novel that
puts forward a female character, an immigrant, and rugby helps her integrate, develop, and
flourish,” Périès said. Sharing books in a market, he added, is about meeting readers where
stories and conversations happen naturally.

Périès, originally from Toulouse, has written multiple works, including Mystères à Natagamau:
Sur la voie du sang , Mystères à Natagamau: Opération Clandestino , and Mystères à
Natagamau: Le secret du borgne . His writing often explores themes of migration, identity, and
the quiet tension of lives in transition, using genres from mystery to sports fiction to reflect the
challenges and hopes of characters finding their place in new environments.

Danielle Soucy, who also helps organize the market, is an artisan, semi-retired community
builder, and the principal manager at Aléo, an initiative supporting local purchases and events
across the Outaouais. She is part of a collective that coordinates five markets in the region,
including the Marché Vieux-Hull, where she works to connect local producers with the
community. Soucy also creates handcrafted dolls, particularly small witches, which she sells as
keepsakes for children and visitors seeking a reminder of the region’s stories.

At the market, Soucy shared her children’s book Chapeauville et la sorcière , a whimsical tale
set in Gatineau Park that she wrote for her daughters and decided to publish last year. The
book, illustrated by Vicky Blais, a young artist from Gatineau, encourages children to step away
from screens and rediscover the joy of stories. “We need to encourage children to read, to learn
to connect with real values, to meet people,” Soucy said, noting that the market’s atmosphere
helps foster those connections.

The Marché Vieux-Hull runs every Thursday from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm until October 2 at Théâtre
de l’Île, Place de la Francophonie, 1 rue Wellington in Gatineau. The market offers produce,
local honey, live music, and small-scale artisans. Local authors will return on July 17, inviting
visitors to discover books written within their own community while enjoying the day’s harvest
and music.

Photo: Local authors Didier Périès and Danielle Soucy brought their stories to the Marché
Vieux-Hull, sharing books with the community, alongside the market’s honey, produce, and local
crafts. (TF) Photo: Tashi Farmilo

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

Pontiac will update its land use and development plans with the support of $427,928 from the
Quebec government, aligning local planning with environmental and sustainability goals under
the province’s Politique nationale de l’architecture et de l’aménagement du territoire (PNAAT).

The funding, announced on June 30 by Minister of Municipal Affairs Andrée Laforest and
Minister responsible for the Outaouais region Mathieu Lacombe, will help the MRC de Pontiac
and the MRC de Papineau revise their schémas d’aménagement et de développement to reflect
updated provincial guidelines.

The Conseil régional de l’environnement et du développement durable de l’Outaouais
(CREDDO) will oversee the project, facilitating communication with the Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg
community to ensure that Indigenous perspectives and biodiversity priorities are integrated into
the planning process.

Funding is being distributed in stages, with an initial portion provided in 2024-2025 and
additional disbursements scheduled through 2028. The initiative is one of 21 projects selected
across eight administrative regions under the 2023-2027 PNAAT implementation plan, which will
provide a total of $8.6 million to support municipalities in balancing development goals with
environmental protection.

The very first PNAAT was launched in June 2022, followed by the 2023-2027 implementation
plan unveiled in June 2023, which outlines actions to advance Quebec’s vision for architecture
and land use planning. The projects under this plan aim to provide municipalities with practical
support for local planning, emerging from regional consultations and aligned with the ambitions
of local authorities.

For the Pontiac, the funding arrives at a time when the region faces pressures related to
housing demand, farmland preservation, and climate adaptation. The updated plans are
expected to clarify zoning and land use frameworks, preserve natural spaces, and guide
housing and development priorities while ensuring sustainable growth.

“We are proud to support this innovative project, which reflects the aspirations and needs of
local communities,” Laforest said. “Land use planning is what ensures the quality of our living
environments in the medium and long term. Each of our regions has its own palette of colours
and specific needs.”

Photo: Pontiac will update its land use plans with $427,928 in provincial funding, aiming to align
local development with sustainability and biodiversity priorities under Quebec’s planning policy.
(TF) Photo: Courtesy of Municipality of Pontiac’s Facebook page

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

Quebec is testing whether tourism can strengthen communities and protect the environment,
and the Outaouais is being asked to prove it. Earlier this year, Quebec Tourism Minister
Caroline Proulx introduced the Stratégie de croissance durable du tourisme 2025–2030,
describing tourism as a critical economic driver that must also support regional vitality and
environmental stewardship.

The minister has emphasized that every tourism dollar should be seen as a strategic investment
in the province’s collective future, underscoring that sustainable development is now central to
Quebec’s approach to the industry. She has framed the strategy to anchor tourism firmly in local
priorities while ensuring it contributes to climate goals.

In the Outaouais, this vision is already materializing. Near Wakefield, Terre & Neige eco-
cottages use reclaimed materials, local seasonal food, electric vehicle charging and tree-
planting programs. In Gatineau, the Wakefield Mill Hotel and Spa, the province’s first LEED-
certified lodging, continues to operate with low-impact systems and energy efficiency. These
projects align with the strategy’s goals of reducing environmental impacts while supporting
community well-being.

Nature-based tourism is expanding across the Outaouais. Kenauk Nature offers off-grid chalets
and conservation programs that combine low-impact travel with biodiversity research. Arbraska
Laflèche Park is broadening its adventure offerings with aerial attractions and underground
tours, with plans to add treetop camping to its eco-tourism lineup.

Local food and cultural experiences are woven into this evolution. Les Fougères restaurant uses
produce from on-site gardens and nearby suppliers, while the Chemin des Outaouais offers a
Camino-style walking route through Gatineau Park and surrounding communities, encouraging
slow, respectful travel.

The strategy encourages a bottom-up approach, prioritizing projects that advance climate
resilience, accessibility and regenerative practices while ensuring that local communities guide
development. It calls for municipalities, Indigenous communities and local organizations to
shape projects that reflect local needs.

Federal and provincial support continues to help the sector transition. Funding has backed
projects in the Outaouais that sustain jobs while moving toward sustainability goals, and
regional development programs have supported eco-tourism businesses, local festivals and
cleaner transport initiatives.

Tourism brought in $16.7 billion in Quebec in 2023, making it the province’s fourth-largest export
sector. But the strategy recognizes that growth alone is not enough, requiring integration with
broader goals in environmental protection, transportation and land use.​

The Outaouais now faces the task of turning these ambitions into measurable results, proving
that tourism can drive economic growth while preserving landscapes and improving community
quality of life. If successful, it could demonstrate how tourism can leave destinations stronger
than before.

Photo: Les Forges de Wakefield, with its use of reclaimed materials and locally sourced food,
stands as an example of how the Outaouais is aligning tourism with climate goals while
supporting its communities. (TF) Photo: Courtesy of Les Forges de Wakefield’s Facebook page

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

Nearly $970,000 in funding was announced on July 5, to support summer and autumn festivals
and events across the Outaouais, aiming to draw visitors, boost cultural life, and stimulate the
local economy. The funding comes under Quebec’s Aide financière aux festivals et aux
événements touristiques programme.

Among the largest beneficiaries is the Festival de montgolfières de Gatineau, receiving
$450,000. This hot air balloon festival, known for its diverse artistic programming, is the largest
summer event in the Outaouais region. It typically attracts over 225,000 attendees and delivers
more than 60 hours of performances, contributing around $15 million to the regional economy.
“Supporting these festivals is a source of pride for Quebec, as they promote the province as a
destination of choice while bringing concrete economic benefits to our communities,” said
Caroline Proulx, Minister of Tourism.

Les Grands Feux du Casino du Lac-Leamy will receive $175,000 for its late-July to mid-August
event, known for its pyromusical shows and new ELECTRO opening night, while the Festival
western Saint-André-Avellin rodéo professionnel will receive $109,000 to continue its support of
rodeo and country culture.

Mathieu Lacombe, Minister of Culture and Communications, noted that support for these
festivals aligns with the rising interest in Quebec as a travel destination. “More and more tourists
are choosing Quebec as their top destination. Supporting these festivals ensures visitors have
unforgettable experiences while helping our local economy,” he said.

The funding also includes $46,000 for Aéro Gatineau-Ottawa, which showcases vintage aircraft
and aerial displays, and supports community events such as the Festival d’humour de Gatineau,
Festival de la fibre Twist, Petite Nation en fête, Festival Ripon trad, and Festival Riverside.
These gatherings contribute to the region’s year-round cultural vitality, a point highlighted by
Robert Bussière, MNA for Gatineau: “These events create lasting memories and encourage
people to discover local flavours and the warm welcome of our residents.”

For communities across the region, the festivals provide moments for families and friends to
gather. “These festivals and events are part of what makes summer and autumn in the
Outaouais vibrant,” said Mathieu Lévesque, MNA for Chapleau. “I commend the organisers for
the quality and diversity of programming they deliver every year.”

Suzanne Tremblay, MNA for Hull, emphasised the role these events play in promoting local
culture while strengthening the economy. “The tourism sector is vital for our region, and these
festivals play a key role in that. We are proud to support the organizers and volunteers who
bring these events to life.”

Photo: Quebec has announced $970,000 in funding to support summer and autumn festivals ​
across the Outaouais, including the textile-focused Festival de la fibre Twist, aiming to boost
tourism, showcase local culture, and strengthen the regional economy. (TF) Photo courtesy of
Ministère du Tourisme du Québec

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

Quebec will launch a one-year pilot project this summer allowing non-food retail businesses in
Gatineau, Laval, and Saint-Georges to extend their weekend hours until 8 pm, as the province
seeks to measure the potential benefits of expanded retail hours in an era of shifting consumer
habits and increasing online commerce.

The initiative, announced by Christopher Skeete, Quebec’s Minister for the Economy, will
examine the effects of longer hours on retail competitiveness, consumer patterns, and
employee conditions. The government has indicated that the results of the pilot could inform
broader changes to retail opening hours across the province if successful.

“With the growth of online commerce, the consumer habits of the Quebec population have
changed,” Skeete said. “To remain competitive, our commercial establishments must be able to
adapt their opening hours and days of access to welcome more consumers who are keen to buy
Quebec products.”

The pilot will apply to non-food retail establishments, including boutiques, markets, and general
stores, while food retailers and pharmacies will remain under existing regulations. Gatineau was
chosen for its proximity to Ontario, Laval for its role as a major retail hub, and Saint-Georges for
its representation of regional economies outside Quebec’s larger urban centres.

The plan is part of Quebec’s implementation of Bill 85, adopted in April, which permits the
government to establish pilot projects aimed at reducing regulatory burdens and allowing
businesses greater flexibility in their operations. The law also lifted staffing restrictions for
evening hours in grocery stores and pharmacies, marking a significant shift in a province that
has historically maintained some of the country’s more restrictive retail regulations.

Quebec first permitted Sunday shopping in the 1990s under limited hours and has gradually
expanded those allowances over the decades, though most non-food stores remain confined to
8 am – 5 pm on weekends. The new pilot represents the first structured move toward assessing
extended weekend retail hours across select regions in the province.

Retail groups, including the Retail Council of Canada, have welcomed these measures, arguing
that extended hours and reduced restrictions will support local businesses competing against
online platforms while better serving consumer needs. Some labour organizations, however,
have raised concerns over potential impacts on work-life balance and the conditions of
employees who may face pressure to work additional hours.

The government will release a report following the pilot’s conclusion in mid-2026 to evaluate
whether permanent adjustments to retail opening hours should be implemented across Quebec,
a decision that could reshape the province’s retail landscape in response to evolving consumer
expectations and the demands of a modernized economy.

Photo: Quebec will trial extended weekend hours for non-food retailers in Gatineau, Laval, and

Saint-Georges starting this summer, aiming to test whether longer hours can help local shops

stay competitive amid rising online commerce, with findings potentially shaping province-wide

retail policies. (TF) Photo: Tashi Farmilo

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

Invasive plants are silently transforming wetlands and woodlands across the MRC de Papineau,
displacing native species, degrading waterways, and straining municipal resources. Left
unchecked, dense stands of Phragmites australis (common reed) clogs waterways and
wetlands; Heracleum mantegazzianum (giant hogweed) threatens public safety with its toxic
sap; and, Reynoutria japonica (Japanese knotweed) undermines infrastructure with its
aggressive underground spread.

These species form monocultures, crowding out native vegetation critical to wildlife while
altering soil chemistry and water flow, leading to a cascade of ecological consequences. Giant
hogweed, for instance, can cause severe burns upon contact with skin exposed to sunlight,
while Japanese knotweed is notorious for cracking pavements and damaging foundations,
compounding municipal costs and eroding property values.

In response to these growing threats, the Organisme de bassins versants des rivières Rouge,
Petite Nation et Saumon (OBV RPNS) has launched a comprehensive regional project to tackle
invasive plants within the MRC de Papineau. Supported by the Fondation de la faune du
Québec’s invasive species program and Québec’s Ministry of the Environment, Climate
Change, Wildlife and Parks, the initiative also benefits from the collaboration of the Parc
national de Plaisance and the financial commitment of the municipalities of Fassett, Plaisance,
Papineauville, Lochaber, and Lochaber-Partie-Ouest.

The project aims to protect sensitive environments through systematic mapping of infestations,
biodiversity impact assessments, and tailored municipal recommendations to integrate control
measures into local policies. Public awareness is central to the effort, with tools being
developed for residents and land managers to aid detection and response, alongside summer
outreach and education activities.

Each participating municipality will receive a detailed report to support the implementation of
effective, localised strategies, reflecting the OBV RPNS’s broader commitment to integrated
water and habitat management across the Rouge, Petite Nation, and Saumon river basins.
“Together, we can slow the progression of invasive species and protect the ecological wealth of
the MRC de Papineau,” said Alexia Couturier, executive director of OBV RPNS.

For further details, visit: www.rpns.ca .

Photo: The Organisme de bassins versants des rivières Rouge, Petite Nation et Saumon (OBV
RPNS) has launched a project in the Papineau region to combat three invasive exotic plants—
giant hogweed, Japanese knotweed, and common reed—to protect local natural habitats. (TF)
Photo courtesy of OBV RPNS

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

The Quebec Anglophone Heritage Network (QAHN) has honoured volunteers and organizations
for their outstanding contributions to preserving English-speaking Quebec’s cultural legacy.
At a ceremony held on June 21 at the historic Louis-Joseph Forget House in Montreal, QAHN
presented its 2025 volunteer recognition awards, celebrating those whose efforts continue to
shape and safeguard the province’s Anglophone heritage.

This year’s Richard Evans Award was presented to the Townships Sun , a volunteer-run
magazine that has documented life in the Eastern Townships for over five decades. Established
under the Eastern Townships Social Action Group, the magazine has become a vital platform for
capturing regional voices and histories. Volunteer Marie Moliner describes it as both a mirror
and a megaphone, reflecting the community’s past and amplifying contemporary voices.
Through stories of rural life, cultural identity, and social change, the Sun continues to ensure
Anglophone heritage remains part of Quebec’s evolving narrative.

QAHN also introduced a new Young Volunteer Award this year to recognize the often-
overlooked efforts of youth in heritage work. The inaugural recipients, Bryan McGaw and Jacob
Coleman of the Vimy Foundation Canadian Centre for the Great War (VF-CCGW), were
honoured for their extensive contributions to archival research, translation, photography, and
digital initiatives related to Montreal’s First World War history.

Bryan has helped identify significant wartime sites in the city and researched local initiatives like
the Westmount Soldiers’ Wives League. Jacob has used data analysis to uncover the stories of
soldiers connected to Montreal’s English-speaking churches. According to Ada Chan of the VF-
CCGW, their work has shed new light on the lives of Anglophone Montrealers during and after
the war. Despite a demanding full-time job, Bryan consistently volunteered two afternoons a
week. Jacob has balanced his contributions with doctoral studies and part-time work.

Dr. Ross Higgins received the Marion Phelps Award for individual achievement. A historian,
archivist, and educator, Higgins co-founded the Archives gaies du Québec and served as its first
president. His doctoral research into gay life in mid-20th century Montreal led to the creation of
the archive, which remains a vital resource for scholars and the broader public.

Higgins was also part of the founding collective behind Androgeny, Montreal’s first gay and
lesbian bookstore. Over the years, he has taught at McGill, UQAM, and Concordia, and
published extensively on queer history in both English and French. Fellow historian Marhan
Mozetich praised his decades-long commitment to collecting archival materials dating back to
the 1920s, calling his contributions essential to the preservation of LGBTQ2S heritage in
Quebec.​

These five honourees were recognized as part of QAHN’s 25th anniversary celebrations. Their
work reflects the diversity and dedication of individuals and groups committed to protecting and
promoting Quebec’s English-speaking heritage.

Nominations for the 2026 QAHN Volunteer Recognition Awards will open later this year. For
eligibility and submission details, visit qahn.org.

Photo: Edward Pedersen (second from left) receives his award at QAHN’s annual ceremony
at the Maison Louis Forget in Montreal. Also pictured (L–R): QAHN president Grant Myers, and
directors Sandi Beebe and Michèle Thibeau. (TF) Photo: M. Farfan

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

For the first time in its history, the Municipality of Chelsea is developing official public access
points to the Gatineau River, responding to years of local demand and a growing commitment to
sustainable, inclusive infrastructure. The project, supported by $210,000 in funding from the
MRC des Collines-de-l’Outaouais, forms part of a broader $1.2 million regional investment into
community-based development across six municipalities.

Set for completion in spring 2026, the work will include three distinct river access sites. A
universally accessible dock and a 125-metre open-water swimming corridor will be built in front
of Farm Point Park, providing a rare public space for safe and structured recreation. Two
additional access points for non-motorized watercraft will be constructed: one near the Farm
Point Community Centre, the other at the end of chemin Burnett. The project is being developed
in line with provincial environmental regulations, with preparatory work already underway while
the Municipality awaits final approvals from Québec’s Ministry of the Environment, the Fight
Against Climate Change, Wildlife and Parks.

The announcement follows a public consultation process that confirmed strong community
support for river access. Along with the construction of new infrastructure, the Farm Point Park
service chalet is being renovated to improve accessibility and will include new restrooms and
changing facilities. The Municipality has also committed to working with the Société de
sauvetage du Québec to meet safety standards, and to implementing measures that will ensure
respectful use of the space by visitors and nearby residents alike.

Chelsea Mayor Pierre Guénard emphasized the significance of the project, describing the river
as central to both the community’s history and its daily life. He called the initiative a move to
“democratize” access to the river in a way that is environmentally respectful and socially
inclusive, marking a shift in how public space is envisioned and shared.

This investment in Chelsea is one of several projects across the region supported by the MRC
des Collines-de-l’Outaouais through Québec’s Fonds régions et ruralité – Volet 3, administered
by the Ministère des Affaires municipales et de l’Habitation. Other municipalities benefiting from
the funding include Cantley, where a multipurpose path is under construction, and L’Ange-
Gardien, which is enhancing its regional park facilities. In La Pêche, efforts are underway to
restore the presbytery, while Pontiac is investing in upgrades to local parks in Luskville and
Quyon. Val-des-Monts will convert a historic church into a new cultural centre, blending heritage
preservation with modern community use.

Prefect of the MRC, Marc Carrière, framed the initiative as part of a shared vision for regional
sustainability and community resilience. “These investments make it possible to realize a shared
vision of the sustainable development of our territory,” he said.​

Photo: Chelsea is set to open its first official public access points to the Gatineau River by
spring 2026, as part of a $1.2 million regional investment in sustainable, community-driven
infrastructure across the MRC des Collines-de-l’Outaouais. (TF) Photo: Tashi Farmilo

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

The Plan PME 2025–2028, unveiled on June 19 by Quebec Ministers Christopher Skeete and
Jean Boulet, is being welcomed as a significant commitment to the province’s small and
medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). With $494 million in funding, the plan aims to support
business growth, succession and regional entrepreneurship amid ongoing economic
uncertainty.

The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB), the country’s largest SME
association, endorsed the initiative as a long-overdue recognition of the sector’s vital role in
Quebec’s economy. “This plan is a step in the right direction,” said François Vincent, CFIB’s
vice-president for Quebec. “Entrepreneurs are under pressure from inflation, labour shortages
and regulatory complexity. Structured support like this can help them remain resilient and grow.”

A key component of the plan targets improved access to government services, an area where
many business owners remain in the dark. A CFIB survey found that a significant number of
SMEs were unaware of available provincial programmes. “Eighty-three percent of owners want
better access to advisory and support services,” Vincent noted. “This plan begins to meet that
demand.”

Led, in part, by Minister Skeete, the initiative also seeks to coordinate provincial efforts under a
more unified framework. Working with regional partners, the government aims to ensure that
support tools are accessible and aligned with the real-world needs of businesses across
Quebec. The broader goal is to boost productivity and competitiveness province-wide.

The CFIB also welcomed measures to reduce regulatory and administrative burdens,
particularly for the smallest firms, which are often disproportionately affected by compliance
obligations. “The paperwork burden is five times heavier for businesses with fewer than five
employees than it is for those with over 100,” said Vincent Pâquet, senior policy analyst at the
CFIB. “When 87 percent of SMEs say excessive regulation hampers productivity, it is more than
a nuisance. It is an economic barrier.”

However, the CFIB cautioned that while the plan addresses structural inefficiencies, it leaves
major fiscal concerns unresolved. “Quebec remains the most tax-unfavourable province in the
country for SMEs,” Vincent said. “It is the only province where the smallest service and
construction firms are denied access to the reduced small business tax rate. Payroll taxes are
also around 30 percent higher than the Canadian average.”

The federation also criticized the continued use of mandatory collective agreement decrees in
certain sectors, a practice unique in North America. “These decrees add paperwork and costs,”
said Pâquet. “They are outdated, and the government has the authority to end them.”​

Still, the CFIB expressed cautious optimism, calling the plan a meaningful first step. “This is a
clear signal that the government is listening to entrepreneurs,” Vincent said. “But the work is not
done. Further reductions in regulatory burden, real tax reform and smarter succession planning
are essential if Quebec’s SMEs are to thrive.”

Photo: At the announcement of the Plan PME 2025–2028 are Guillaume Tremblay (President of
the Union des municipalités du Québec – UMQ), Simon Allaire (MNA for Maskinongé), Sonia
LeBel (President of the Treasury Board and Minister Responsible for Government
Administration), Christopher Skeete (Minister for the Economy and Minister Responsible for the
Fight Against Racism), Jacques Demers (President of the Fédération québécoise des
municipalités – FQM), Jean Boulet (Minister of Labour), and Benoît Richard (President and
CEO of AGT Robotics) (TF) Photo: Li-Ann Laverdière – MEIE

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

Outaouais agricultural and food businesses are now eligible for a new round of provincial
funding aimed at strengthening Quebec’s local food systems. The Quebec government has
announced a $3 million investment to support a range of agricultural, horticultural, and
agritourism initiatives, with special emphasis on small producers and those in outlying regions
like Outaouais.

Unveiled on June 12 by Agriculture Minister André Lamontagne during the launch of the
Chaudière-Appalaches Gourmet Stops summer season, the funding will support approximately
70 greenhouse and horticultural projects and nearly 60 proximity-marketing and agrotourism
projects across the province.

In Outaouais, eligible businesses include farms and food processors with less than $1 million in
annual revenue. The funding will help these enterprises implement or strengthen plans to sell
directly to consumers, through initiatives like on-farm shops, agritourism experiences, or local
market participation. The program also allows for a 15% boost in financial assistance for young
agricultural businesses and those pursuing organic certification.

“The assistance offered will support the growth of farms while allowing them to diversify their
marketing channels,” said Minister Lamontagne, noting the importance of food self-sufficiency
and the unique role regional producers play in Quebec’s economy.

In 2024, four projects in the Outaouais received a combined total of $70,000 through the
Proximité initiative. This year, several local businesses have already contacted the Ministry of
Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAPAQ) to assess eligibility, though the ministry noted that
some apply without prior consultation, making regional forecasting difficult.

Recognizing the additional challenges rural regions face, the government is also advancing the
launch of the application period and increasing aid rates for outlying areas.

“I am pleased with this financial support, which will help support numerous local agricultural
projects throughout Quebec,” said Minister Lamontagne. “Promoting a diversity of production
models and supporting initiatives that bring consumers closer to producers is good for the
economy of our regions and is also a step in the right direction to increase our food self-
sufficiency.”

Applications for the Proximité Ministerial Initiative are being accepted from now until October 31,
2025, or until the $3 million budget is exhausted. Full application guidelines are available at the
Quebec government’s official portal:
www.quebec.ca/agriculture-environnement-et-ressources-naturelles/agriculture/aide-
financiere/initiative-ministerielle-proximite​

Photo: A new $3 million provincial initiative is offering financial support to small farms and food
businesses in Outaouais to boost local marketing and agritourism, with applications open until
October 31, 2025. (TF) Photo courtesy of MAPAQ

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

As churches across the Outaouais stand empty or in slow decline, the Quebec government is overhauling
how it manages religious heritage properties. The current strategy, in place since the 1990s, is being
revised in response to rising upkeep costs, an accelerating pace of closures, and a steadily secularizing
population.

A key influence behind the shift is the Statistics Canada study Religiosity in Canada and its evolution
from 1985 to 2019 , based on the General Social Survey. The study found that approximately 762 Catholic
churches in Quebec—nearly 28% of the 2,746 in existence in 2003—have since been closed and
demolished, abandoned, or repurposed. Between 2003 and 2013 alone, 285 churches were converted for
new uses, and 40 were demolished.

More recent census data from 2021 shows the trend continuing. The proportion of Quebecers reporting no
religious affiliation rose to 27.3%, up from just 5.8% in 2001. Over the same period, the percentage of
Christians dropped from 90% to 64.8%. Weekly mass attendance has fallen dramatically—from around
88% in the late 1950s to roughly 2% by 2018. The COVID-19 pandemic also sharply reduced
participation in group religious activities across the province.

In response to these changes, Quebec’s Minister of Culture and Communications, Mathieu Lacombe,
launched a year-long policy review in spring 2024. The effort is being led by former deputy minister
Sylvie Barcelo. The revised framework will prioritize heritage interventions based on urgency, safety
concerns, and the exceptional cultural value of buildings. “The current strategy is no longer viable given
that the requests far exceed our investment capacity,” Lacombe stated, adding that urgent cases will
continue to receive support.

To date, no specific churches in the Outaouais have been identified for priority intervention. The Ministry
has said that all projects will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis and that funding will remain subject to
government approval. Property owners are being encouraged to contact the Ministry for guidance under
Quebec’s Cultural Heritage Act, but there have been no announcements regarding regional consultation,
funding allocations, or implementation timelines in the Outaouais.

Since the spring, approximately 20 organizations have been consulted, including municipalities, religious
groups, and nonprofit organizations focused on church requalification. While none of these have been
named publicly, the Ministry has reported unanimous agreement among stakeholders that the current
approach is no longer adequate. The Conseil du patrimoine religieux du Québec is expected to play a
central role in the province-wide strategy, though its involvement in the Outaouais specifically has not yet
been detailed.

Photo: Quebec is revamping its approach to preserving religious heritage buildings amid widespread
closures and declining church attendance, but communities in the Outaouais are still waiting for clarity on
whether local sites will be included in the province’s plans. (TF) Photo: Tashi Farmilo

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

Pickleball has officially arrived at the Complexe Sportif La Pêche in Sainte-Cécile-de-Masham,
bringing one of North America’s fastest-growing sports to the local community in time for the 50 th
anniversary of the municipality of La Pêche.

The arrival of pickleball is thanks to the determined efforts of Dan Labelle, who, two decades
after officiating the first hockey game at the Masham arena, has returned to help reimagine the
space for this increasingly popular sport. Working in collaboration with James Yantha of the
Centre de curling des Collines de Chelsea and Jean-Pierre de Beaumont, founder of the
Académie de Pickleball, Labelle helped coordinate the marking of six official courts inside the
arena—a first for Masham.

Pickleball, a hybrid of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, is played on a smaller court with
paddles and a perforated plastic ball. Its rapid growth in popularity, especially among older
adults, has been driven in part by Québec “snowbirds” who discovered the game while wintering
in the southern United States. Its appeal lies in its ease of entry, low-impact pace, and social
nature.

Residents are now invited to take part in an introductory event on June 22 at 10 am at the arena
(20 chemin Raphaël, Sainte-Cécile-de-Masham). All equipment will be provided free of charge,
and no experience is necessary. To reserve a place, text 613-794-4414 with the number of
participants, each person’s name, and preferred session.

Jean-Pierre de Beaumont, whose Académie de Pickleball promotes accessible and inclusive
training across Quebec, will be on hand to guide new players through the basics. The event is
open to all ages and is part of a wider effort to promote healthy, active lifestyles in the
community.

As Labelle puts it, “Pickleball is the perfect sport-game for aging in action and in health.”

Photo: Pickleball has officially launched at the Complexe Sportif La Pêche in Masham, thanks to
local efforts led by Dan Labelle and Jean-Pierre de Beaumont, marking a major milestone in
community sport during La Pêche’s 50th anniversary celebrations. (TF) Photo: Courtesy

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

In a coordinated effort to address homelessness and promote social inclusion, six major cities in
Quebec—Gatineau, Lévis, Longueuil, Québec City, Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, and Sherbrooke—
have released two video capsules designed to inform the public and prompt reflection on the
realities of life without stable housing. The initiative, announced on June 16, encourages
solidarity and deeper understanding of social marginalization.

The videos, Démystifier l’itinérance and Lutter collectivement contre l’itinérance , stem from a
shared municipal commitment to dismantling stigma and fostering support for vulnerable
residents. Now available online, the films present a mix of personal accounts and community
messages that highlight both the causes of homelessness and the importance of collective care.
This joint campaign complements each city’s existing efforts to tackle housing precarity, with the
municipalities uniting their resources to produce a shared message with province-wide
resonance. It reflects a growing recognition that housing insecurity is not confined to one
jurisdiction—and neither should the response be.

“The people experiencing homelessness are residents like any others,” said Steven Moran,
Gatineau’s Commissioner for Homelessness. “We believe it’s essential to support social
coexistence in our communities. Through our awareness efforts and support for local
organizations, we reaffirm the importance of addressing this issue with humanity, rigour, and
commitment.”

Other municipal leaders echoed this perspective. Québec City Mayor Bruno Marchand
described the campaign as “a call to solidarity, to listening, and to humanity.” In Longueuil,
Mayor Catherine Fournier noted the project complements the city’s recently adopted action
plan, while Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu’s Mayor Andrée Bouchard emphasized the importance of
collaborative efforts that “protect both the dignity of the most vulnerable and the vitality of our
communities.”

For Sherbrooke Mayor Evelyne Beaudin, the project represents a step toward a more equitable
society: “We create, together, a community more just, for all.”

Photo: In a coordinated awareness campaign, six major Québec cities have released two video
capsules, Démystifier l’itinérance and Lutter collectivement contre l’itinérance , to challenge
misconceptions about homelessness and promote community solidarity. (TF) Photo: screenshot
of Démystifier l’itinérance on YouTube

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

Katherine Korakakis, President of the English Parents Committee Association (EPCA), is calling
for a sweeping rethinking of Quebec’s education priorities. At the centre of her demands: more
funding for mental health and special needs services, better support for educators, and the
integration of mental health education into the provincial curriculum.

“The needs of students are going up, while resources are going down,” said Korakakis.
“Something’s got to give.” Her remarks follow news of a half-billion-dollar reduction in the
province’s education budget, a move she says fundamentally contradicts the needs of children
across Quebec. “You can’t gut services and expect outcomes to improve.”

One of Korakakis’s most prominent proposals is the creation of a structured, age-appropriate
mental health curriculum, like the way sexual education is currently integrated into the system.
“Students should learn how to identify emotions, where those emotions come from, and what
tools are available to manage them. This isn’t fluff—it’s foundational,” she said. She emphasized
that basic strategies like breathing exercises and emotional labeling should be taught early and
systematically. “Once children understand what they’re feeling and why and can work through
them, the fear starts to fall away. That’s empowering.”

Korakakis is also alarmed by the chronic shortage of qualified professionals in schools. “We
need more psychologists, social workers, special education technicians—the very people who
help students when things get hard. Instead, what we’re seeing are cuts. Fewer services, more
crises.” She points to EPCA’s latest surveys conducted with public health experts across
Quebec, which show that children with special needs are two to three times more likely to report
a low quality of life. Their parents, in turn, are twice as likely to report poor mental health. The
impact, Korakakis argues, is measurable and deeply inequitable.

She’s particularly concerned about the effects of Bill 96 and other language policies that create
additional hurdles for anglophone students, especially those with disabilities. “We’re not against
French. I’m fully bilingual. But when you require additional French coursework just to access
post-secondary education, you’re shutting out children with documented language disorders,”
she said. “That’s not just an academic barrier—it’s a life barrier.” These policies, she added,
have contributed to a narrowing of future opportunities for many students with learning
differences. “You can’t talk about equity if you don’t accommodate real needs.”

Korakakis is equally critical of how funding is allocated. “Funding must be equitable, not equal.
Equal funding ignores the realities of English school boards that are constrained by enrolment
caps due to language laws. These schools still must provide services, innovate, maintain
infrastructure—just like everyone else. If you fund them equally, you’re effectively underfunding
them.” She says a funding model based on actual need, not raw headcounts, would be far more
just and effective.​

Despite the criticism, Korakakis is not content with advocacy alone. Under her leadership, EPCA
has been actively collecting data, organizing parent workshops, distributing resources, and
building coalitions with healthcare experts and public institutions. “We’re not just raising the
alarm. We’re offering evidence, solutions, and support.” This includes an annual survey, which
this year again showed troubling trends in screen addiction, social anxiety, and bullying—all
linked to deteriorating student well-being. “We’re seeing kids burn out, shut down, and drop out,”
she said. “And families are struggling alongside them.”

In her eyes, it all comes down to priorities. “Everyone says they care about children. But where
you spend your money tells the real story. Right now, education isn’t being treated as a priority.
And that must change.”

For more information about the English Parents Committee Association (EPCA), to sign up for
workshops, access resources, or subscribe to the newsletter, visit: epcaquebec.org.

Photo: From left to right: Sara Hossaini, Katherine Korakakis (EPCA President), Doug Bentley
(EPCA Vice-President), Victoria Chavez, Justin Ford, Shannon Languay, Jessica Houde, and
Alexandra Grebenuk have all played key roles in advancing EPCA’s advocacy and parent
engagement across Quebec this year. (TF) Photo: courtesy of EPCA

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

Formal protection for Gatineau Park is once again before Parliament, as Senator Rosa Galvez
reintroduces legislation to enshrine the park in federal law after earlier efforts were stalled with
the change in government. Bill S – 229, a refined version of a proposal tabled in 2024, seeks to
provide Canada’s second-most visited park with the legal standing it has never possessed,
despite its prominence in the National Capital Region and long-standing ecological value.

The bill would amend the National Capital Act to establish fixed legal boundaries for the park,
prohibit the sale of its public lands, except under limited and clearly defined conditions, and
require the National Capital Commission to make ecological integrity the foremost priority in its
management. The legislation also strengthens the park’s governance by mandating sustained
consultation with neighbouring municipalities and the Algonquin Anishinabeg Nation, whose
unceded territory includes the land on which the park sits.

While earlier versions of the legislation faltered, S – 229 reflects lessons learned from previous
attempts. It removes a controversial clause granting the NCC a right of first refusal on private
land purchases – powers it already holds – and clarifies provisions around user fees to ensure
continued public access at reasonable cost. A master plan for ecological protection, zoning, and
visitor use will be required within ten years of the bill’s enactment, with mandatory updates at
least every decade thereafter.

Pontiac–Kitigan Zibi MP Sophie Chatel, who co-developed the legislation with Senator Galvez,
has championed the bill as both a personal and regional priority. As the federal representative
for a riding that includes vast tracts of the park, Chatel has consistently called for stronger
protection of its ecological and cultural significance. She emphasized the park’s role as a
symbol of regional identity and a vital part of the Outaouais’ natural heritage. “This is about
ensuring that future generations can continue to walk these trails, breathe this air, and feel a
connection to the land that defines our region,” she said.

Also backing the bill is Greg Fergus, MP for Hull–Aylmer and Speaker of the House of
Commons. Fergus has long advocated for federal recognition of the park’s unique status,
arguing that its popularity and ecological value deserve the same legal weight as national parks.
His support underscores the broader political momentum the bill now enjoys within the National
Capital Region.

Gatineau Park currently draws some 2.6 million visitors a year and supports nearly 5,000
regional jobs, generating $184 million in economic activity annually. Despite this, only 7.6 per
cent of the Outaouais region and under 9 per cent of the Ottawa River watershed enjoy formal
protection. Advocates of the bill argue that placing the park under legislative protection is
essential for meeting Canada’s biodiversity target of conserving 30 per cent of land by 2030, as
outlined in the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.​

The proposal has drawn strong support from Indigenous leaders, environmental organizations,
and local elected officials. Chief Jean-Guy Whiteduck of Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg praised the bill
for recognizing the deep connection between the Algonquin people and the land, describing it as
an act of collective responsibility to preserve the territory for future generations. The Société
pour la nature et les parcs du Canada called the bill a necessary step to align Gatineau Park’s
management with national conservation standards.

Photo: A renewed federal bill backed by Senator Rosa Galvez, MP Sophie Chatel, and Speaker
Greg Fergus aims to give Gatineau Park long-overdue legal protection, establishing its
boundaries in law, prioritizing ecological integrity, and formalizing Indigenous and municipal
partnerships in its governance. (TF) Photo: Tashi Farmilo

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

Quebec’s government is pushing the accelerator on its zero-emission vehicle policy. But, as it
charts a faster course toward electrification, the province’s automotive industry is tapping the
brakes.

Following a meeting last week with Environment Minister Benoit Charette, three of the country’s
most prominent automotive associations issued a joint statement cautioning that the province’s
current regulatory trajectory, however well intentioned, risks outpacing both market readiness
and global realities.

The Corporation des concessionnaires automobiles du Québec (CCAQ), Constructeurs
mondiaux d’automobiles du Canada (CMAC), and the Association canadienne des
constructeurs de véhicules (ACCV) welcomed the minister’s decision to begin consultations this
summer on how to adapt Quebec’s ZEV standard. But they made clear that without swift and
substantive adjustments, the policy could put undue strain on manufacturers and dealers,
particularly as economic conditions worsen and demand for electric vehicles cools.

“We’re committed to the energy transition,” said Ian P. Sam Yue Chi, head of the CCAQ, “but
Quebec cannot move forward in isolation from the broader North American market.”
The ZEV standard, first introduced in 2018 and revised repeatedly since, sets annual targets for
the proportion of zero-emission vehicles that automakers must sell in Quebec. The regulation
has played a significant role in the province’s rising EV adoption rate – among the highest on
the continent – but industry leaders now argue that targets are becoming increasingly difficult to
meet.

They cite a constellation of pressures: the winding down of provincial and federal purchase
incentives, uncertainty in U.S. trade policy, supply chain turbulence, and an increasingly
cautious consumer base. Recent data shows that EV growth, while still strong, has begun to
slow across North America.

David Adams, president of CMAC, pointed out that automakers are not unwilling, but the
|conditions must be right. “Being a leader means adapting to reality,” he said. “Our members are
prepared to deliver the vehicles. The question is whether consumers can afford them.”
The associations have not called for the ZEV standard to be abandoned, but they are urging
the government to recalibrate the rules to better reflect current market dynamics—both at home
and abroad. Their proposal: continued dialogue, policy flexibility, and a realistic pathway that
supports environmental goals without jeopardising investment or consumer access.​

Minister Charette has so far shown openness to that conversation. The consultations, expected
to unfold over the summer, could shape the next phase of Quebec’s climate strategy. For now,
both government and industry insist they share the same destination. The question is whether
they can agree on the right speed—and the safest route—to get there.

Photo: As Quebec accelerates its zero-emission vehicle policy, the province’s auto industry
urges a more pragmatic approach, warning that rigid targets risk outpacing market conditions
and undermining investment. (TF) Photo: Tashi Farmilo

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

A new documentary exploring the experiences of English-speaking Quebecers in the Outaouais
premiered at Motel Chelsea on June 6, drawing a small but attentive crowd, both anglophone
and francophone. Regional Realities: Outaouais , directed by filmmaker and QUESCREN
research associate Anita Aloisio, is the first in a new series of short documentaries produced by
the Quebec English-Speaking Communities Research Network (QUESCREN), based at
Concordia University. The film is part of a broader effort to document how language, identity,
and place intersect for English-speaking communities across Quebec.

The 30-minute film features voices from across the region, including Low Down to Hull & Back
News publisher Nikki Mantel and editor-in-chief Trevor Greenway, Connexions Resource Centre
executive director Danielle Lanyi, Greg Graham, a farmer and literacy advocate, Paul Tonkin,
executive director of Outaouais Wellness Learning (OWL), and Judith Anne King Matheson, a
local elder affiliated with White Owl Outaouais Wellness Learning Wisdom. These individuals
spoke from within their communities, reflecting on access to health care, shrinking English-
language services, the impact of legislation like Bill 96, and the strain of navigating bureaucratic
systems that do not always account for linguistic minorities.

In one scene, Greg Graham describes the Pontiac as “at the bottom of the bottle,” pointing to
decades of underinvestment in rural healthcare and services. The film also addresses growing
anxiety among anglophone students facing new requirements like the mandatory French Exit
Exam to graduate from CEGEP. Participants spoke of the cumulative effect of language
legislation—particularly Bills 96 and 101—on daily life, from restrictions on English schooling to
barriers in accessing public services. Under Quebec’s language laws, only those with a
Certificate of Eligibility may attend English public schools, a rule that excludes most
francophone and immigrant families and has left some mixed-language households unable to
choose the school system they feel fits best. This is not a matter of preference but of legal
restriction, one that many feel reduces flexibility and deepens linguistic division.

The film also highlights how the laws, though not explicitly banning English-language services in
healthcare, have contributed to confusion and uneven application. Some medical professionals,
citing the new legislation, have refused to serve patients in English—even when it remains
legally permitted. For seniors who have lived their entire lives in English, this shift has been
especially difficult. Many now find themselves unable to access basic services, from
transportation to medical appointments, due to their limited French. Others spoke of no longer
understanding municipal notices or being able to participate in public meetings, including
something as routine as garbage collection instructions. The result, several participants
suggested, is not simply inconvenience but a growing sense of exclusion in communities they
have long called home.

After the screening, QUESCREN’s Patrick Donovan moderated a discussion with Aloisio and
several of the film’s participants. Audience members echoed the concerns raised in the film, ​
speaking of service cutbacks, inconsistent access to information, and a growing unease about
where English-speaking residents fit in Quebec’s evolving linguistic landscape.

Still, the evening was not defined by frustration alone. Many participants pointed to the
resilience of their communities and voiced hope for the future. There was broad agreement that
the next generation—raised in bilingual households, fluent in both languages—could help foster
a more inclusive future. Several highlighted the role of technology, particularly translation tools,
in reducing friction where policy lags behind. One speaker described the present moment as
part of a broader shift, a time when communities are being asked to come together in new ways.

Another called directly for equality, reminding the room that English-speaking Quebecers should
not have to choose between remaining in their home province and accessing their basic rights.
Others referenced the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and Canada’s official bilingual
status, emphasizing that French and English are to be treated with equal respect. While the
reality on the ground often falls short of this principle, the film and the discussion underscored
the importance of holding on to it—not just as a legal framework, but as a shared aspiration.

Photo: Audience members watched attentively as Regional Realities: Outaouais unfolded on
screen, highlighting the challenges English speakers face and the hopes they hold for a more
inclusive future. (TF) Photo: Tashi Farmilo

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

Music retrospective Retro – Popular Music in Canada from the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s opened June
6 at the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau, assembling a richly layered portrait of how
popular music in Canada became a defining cultural force across three turbulent decades. With
more than 160 artifacts, over 100 curated audio tracks, and immersive audiovisual installations,
the exhibition examines music, not simply as entertainment, but as a mirror of Canadian life, its
movements, its politics, its contradictions. The exhibition runs through January 18, 2026.

Organized into three interpretive zones, Social, Personal, and Political, the exhibition traces the
shifting relationship between music and public life. Objects tied to grassroots movements, the
evolution of music technology, and the aesthetics of stage performance illustrate how musicians
and listeners alike reshaped what it meant to be Canadian in a rapidly changing world. The
curatorial approach resists nostalgia, favouring instead a documentary sensibility that situates
music as both archive and intervention.

Quebec’s influence runs throughout. From the chanson traditions of Robert Charlebois and
Gilles Vigneault to the pop interventions of artists like Mitsou and Céline Dion, the exhibition
foregrounds the province’s dual role as incubator of innovation and bridge between linguistic
and cultural spheres. Dion’s 1988 Eurovision dress, designed by Michel Robidas, is displayed
alongside other performance attire, anchoring a narrative about international breakout moments
rooted in local beginnings. Her early career in Quebec and subsequent ascent to global
prominence reflect the era’s porous cultural boundaries and the export of francophone talent.

Mitsou’s 1988 platinum debut El Mundo , released the same year, demonstrated the vitality of
Quebec’s youth-driven pop market. Her single Bye Bye Mon Cowboy blurred linguistic lines and
stylistic conventions, capturing the assertiveness of a generation raised on both Montreal video
culture and transatlantic influences. The inclusion of her work offers a sharp contrast to the
singer-songwriter tradition, widening the frame of what Canadian pop could be—bold, bilingual,
and unreservedly commercial.

Elsewhere, the exhibition features Leonard Cohen’s Olivetti typewriter, Michie Mee’s Dapper
Dan-designed stage ensemble, handwritten lyrics by Octobre, and a drumskin painted by the
Cowboy Junkies. A piece of notepaper from John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s Montreal Bed-In
connects the exhibition’s political dimension to an international peace movement staged on
Quebec soil. These fragments speak to a country negotiating identity through its artists—
sometimes in harmony, often in tension.

Developed by the Canadian Museum of History and presented by Power Corporation of
Canada, Retro is accompanied by concerts, film screenings, and in-gallery programming.
Without flattening its subjects into nostalgia, the exhibition demonstrates how Canadian popular
music—shaped in no small part by Quebec’s cultural presence—formed an enduring, audible
record of the country’s imagination.

Photo: The Canadian Museum of History’s Retro exhibition revisits the soundtrack of Canada’s

’60s, ’70s and ’80s, spotlighting icons like Céline Dion while tracing how popular music shaped

—and was shaped by—the country’s evolving identity. (TF) Photo: Tashi Farmilo

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

The Task Force on Linguistic Policy, a Quebec-based grassroots organization, has applied to
the Supreme Court of Canada for leave to intervene in a high-profile constitutional case
concerning the use of the notwithstanding clause by the province of Quebec.

At issue are Bills 21 and 96, two laws that invoke section 33 of the Canadian Charter of Rights
and Freedoms — the notwithstanding clause — to shield provisions from judicial review. Bill 21
limits the wearing of religious symbols by public employees, while Bill 96 expands the reach of
the Charter of the French Language, imposing new requirements on education, business, and
public service delivery.

The Task Force, led by President Andrew Caddell, argues that the use of the clause must not
override the fundamental rights of individuals — especially those who are unilingual
anglophones or members of marginalized groups. “Our case represents individuals,” Caddell
said in an interview. “Most of the other groups involved are institutions or organizations. We’re
unique in that we’re a grassroots organization.”

The Task Force’s motion, filed on May 13, asks to present arguments to the Court on the limits
of section 33 and whether it allows legislatures to override rights in a way that makes them
ineffective or inaccessible. The group asserts that pre-1982 constitutional principles — such as
rule of law, minority rights, and the right to services in one’s language — remain relevant and
must guide the interpretation of section 33.

Caddell, who is also a co-plaintiff in a separate court challenge to Bill 96, described how some
provisions in the law create obstacles to healthcare and education in English. “We have people
who weren’t born or raised in Canada, but who now live here and have difficulties accessing
services,” he said. “One person with colitis can’t get information from her local clinic in English.
Another is autistic and can’t access services in English, even though it’s his first official spoken
language.”

He also raised concerns about how the law defines who qualifies as a ‘historic anglophone,’
which is based largely on one’s education history in Canada. “It’s extremely restrictive,” he said.
“If you were educated abroad — even temporarily — or if your family moved for a few years,
you may not qualify. That affects people’s ability to access services.”

According to Caddell, the impact is felt most by those already on the margins: the elderly, the
rural poor, immigrants who speak English as a second language, and Indigenous communities,
many of whom operate in English or their own languages. “These are the people who need
services the most,” he said.

The Task Force also points to the law’s effects on employment and education. Under current
rules, temporary English-language education permits are harder to renew, affecting families who​
move to Quebec mid-way through their children’s schooling. “It used to be that a six-year permit
was enough to get a child through secondary school,” said Caddell. “Now it’s only three years,
and it must be renewed annually. That’s a barrier for families who are here temporarily.”

While the Task Force supports the use and promotion of French in Quebec, it maintains that
such efforts should not come at the expense of people’s access to essential services. “We really
believe in the idea of the flourishing of French in Quebec,” Caddell said. “But we don’t believe it
should be done at the expense of people who, for one reason or another, don’t speak the
language well.”

The organization, founded in 2022, is funded through private donations and currently has over
3,000 members. It has raised more than $200,000 from individual contributions and holds public
events to raise awareness of linguistic rights. One such event — an expert panel on the history
and use of the notwithstanding clause — is scheduled for June 11.

If granted standing by the Supreme Court, the Task Force would join a broad range of other
parties, including school boards, civil liberties groups, and multiple provincial attorneys general.
The Court’s ruling is expected to clarify how — and how far — section 33 can be used by
legislatures in relation to Charter rights.

“We don’t think anyone should be left behind because of technical definitions or language
barriers,” said Caddell. “People should be able to get the services they need, and participate
fully in society, regardless of their language.”

Photo: The Task Force on Linguistic Policy, a Quebec-based grassroots organization, is seeking
to intervene in a Supreme Court case, arguing that the province’s use of the notwithstanding
clause in language legislation infringes on the fundamental rights of English-speaking and
marginalized residents. (TF) Photo: Tashi Farmilo

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

Immigrant integration in the Outaouais is receiving a $2,240,984 boost as of June 2, with
funding distributed to eight local partners through Quebec’s Ministry of Immigration, Francization
and Integration’s Program d’appui aux collectivités (PAC) to support French-language services
that help newcomers settle and participate in community life.

The City of Gatineau receives the largest portion, $1,278,200, to fund municipal initiatives
designed to facilitate integration at the local level. Service Intégration Travail Outaouais (SITO),
which focuses on employment access for immigrants, is allocated $570,688. Carrefour
Jeunesse Emploi du Pontiac will receive $127,221 to assist young immigrants with employment
and orientation, while Carrefour Jeunesse Emploi Vallée-de-la-Gatineau is granted $63,515 for
similar support in its area. Carrefour Emploi des Collines is awarded $88,950 to continue its
work with immigrant jobseekers in the Collines-de-l’Outaouais.

Other recipients include Accueil-Parrainage Outaouais, which receives $12,410 to continue
offering welcome and pairing services between newcomers and local residents. Two regional
county municipalities — the MRC des Collines-de-l’Outaouais and the MRC de Pontiac — will
receive $25,000 and $75,000 respectively, funding coordination and services in rural areas.
“It’s the entire region, with each of its welcoming communities, that is mobilizing to contribute to
the successful integration of immigrants,” said Jean-François Roberge, Minister of Immigration,
Francisation and Integration. “The Outaouais region is a great example.”

The PAC program is designed to allow communities to tailor their integration efforts to local
needs, whether through job market access, civic orientation, or community-building. The
projects funded under this announcement reflect that diversity, spanning urban, rural, youth-
focused, and employment-based initiatives.

“These projects ensure that immigrants who settle here find a French-speaking environment
where they can thrive and contribute,” Roberge added.

Photo: Quebec is investing over $2.2 million in the Outaouais region to support immigrant
integration through local organizations, including Carrefour Jeunesse Emploi du Pontiac, with
projects focused on employment, settlement, and community participation in French. (TF)
Photo: Courtesy of the Carrefour Jeunesse Emploi du Pontiac Facebook page

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

A new guide is helping families in La Vallée-de-la-Gatineau discover the best local parks
equipped for children five years of age and under. Developed through a partnership between
Loisir sport Outaouais, the MRC de La Vallée-de-la-Gatineau, and the regional Public Health
Directorate, the guide maps out more than 20 municipal playgrounds across the region, offering
practical details to support planning family outings.

Each park listing includes descriptions of available amenities, such as washrooms, picnic tables,
shaded areas, and parking, as well as photos and links to video tours. The aim is to give
parents a clear sense of what to expect, especially in a rural area where some parks may be
over half an hour away. The guide’s creators visited each location in person, assessing the
parks from a user’s perspective to ensure the information is grounded in real experience.

Beyond convenience, the guide promotes the importance of outdoor play for early childhood
development. Citing health research and community expertise, it encourages unstructured
activity to support children’s physical, emotional, and social growth. It also offers tips for parents
on balancing safety with the freedom kids need to explore, take risks, and engage with the
natural environment.

By highlighting the region’s parks in detail and making them more accessible, the guide invites
families to make the most of the warmer months through regular, active play in their
communities. Whether it’s a nearby green space or a destination park for a weekend outing, the
guide aims to turn everyday adventures into meaningful childhood memories.

To download the guide, please visit the following link: https://www.urlso.qc.ca/wp-
content/uploads/2025/05/Guide-des-equipements-0-5-ans-1.pdf

Photo: A new regional guide highlights over 20 parks in La Vallée-de-la-Gatineau designed for
children aged five and under, complete with practical details and amenities—including several
with water play areas—encouraging families to explore and enjoy outdoor spaces throughout
the warmer months. (TF) Photo: Courtesy of Loisir sport Outaouais

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

The summer festival season in Quebec is set to begin with a significant expansion as
L’Outaouais en fête gears up for its 49th edition in June 2025. Held annually at Parc des
Cèdres, the francophone celebration will stretch over five days for the first time in its history,
running from June 20 to 24, with organizers promising a richer experience in both scale and
spirit.

The decision to extend the festival reflects a broader ambition to expand its cultural impact and
provide more opportunities for attendees to engage with music, the arts, and community life.
Organisers hope the five-day format will encourage greater connection, highlight diverse
francophone talent, and celebrate the language through shared experiences and artistic
discovery.

Kicking off the event on June 20 will be Loud, the Montréal-based rapper whose meteoric rise in
francophone hip-hop has been marked by lyrical precision and a distinctly bold sound. Known
for bridging local and international audiences, Loud’s opening night performance is expected to
set the tone with his signature intensity.

Joining the bill is Alexandre Poulin, the folk singer-songwriter lauded for his poetic and
introspective compositions. Fresh off receiving the Francophone Songwriter of the Year award
at the 2025 Canadian Folk Music Awards, Poulin will take the stage on June 22 with his latest
work, La Somme des êtres aimés , continuing a career marked by quiet resonance and
thoughtful storytelling.

Also featured is Rau_Ze, a rising duo consisting of Rose Perron and Félix Paul. Their genre-
blending sound will accompany Loud on opening night, bringing a mix of intuitive creativity and
structured lyricism that has quickly earned them a place among Quebec’s emerging acts.

Ticket sales have reflected strong interest, especially following the introduction of a youth rate
for festivalgoers aged 12 to 17, part of a broader effort to make the event more inclusive and
accessible. Children under 12 may enter free of charge, and five-day passports remain available
at regular prices. For more information and tickets, visit the official website:
outaouaisenfete.com.

Photo: L’Outaouais en fête returns this June with an expanded five-day format and a lineup that
celebrates the depth and diversity of francophone culture. (TF) Photo: Yves Elou Légaré

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

CPAWS Ottawa Valley, in partnership with Friends of Dumoine and ZEC Dumoine, is organizing
a volunteer cleanup of the Dumoine Tote Road Trail in Pontiac on Saturday, June 7. The event
is part of a broader effort to maintain and protect this historically and ecologically significant
route.

The cleanup will target an 8-kilometre stretch between Robinson Lake and Red Pine Rapids.
Volunteers will work with hand tools to remove debris, trim back overgrowth, and restore the trail
after the winter. The terrain is generally flat with a few gentle hills. Chainsaws and other
mechanized equipment are not permitted, and large deadfall will be handled by professionals.

The Dumoine Tote Road Trail follows traditional Indigenous portages and the path of a 19th-
century wagon road. At 26 kilometres in total, the trail lies entirely within the Dumoine River
Aquatic Reserve—a protected area CPAWS began securing in 2008. The reserve safeguards a
diverse landscape of forest and river systems, preserving natural habitats and ensuring public
access to an undeveloped wilderness corridor.

Participants will meet at the ZEC Rapides-des-Joachims parking lot at 8:30 am on Saturday,
June 7, and begin work around 9:30. The cleanup will continue until approximately 5:00 pm.
Volunteers should bring lunch, water, gloves, and tools such as loppers, rakes, or clippers if
available. Equipment will be provided for those without their own, and water can be refilled
along the trail at Grande Chute.

Camping is available nearby on Friday and Saturday nights for volunteers who wish to stay
over, with several site options offered during registration. The event will proceed in rain or shine,
barring severe weather.

Registration is required and must be completed by 10:00 am on June 6. Ride-sharing may be
arranged for those who need transportation or can offer space. For details or to register, email
ov-outreach@cpaws.org .

Photo: CPAWS Ottawa Valley is calling for volunteers to join a trail cleanup on the Dumoine Tote
Road Trail in Pontiac on Saturday, June 7, to help maintain an ecologically protected and
historically significant route. (TF) Photo courtesy of the Friends of Dumoine River

Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

A new report from the Centre intégré de santé et de services sociaux de l’Outaouais has place
the health and well-being of older adults at the centre of public discourse, revealing a population
already feeling the effects of demographic change. Released April 29 at a press conference in
Gatineau, the report documents the growing needs of those aged 65 and over in the region and
issues a clear appeal: communities must act now to make healthy ageing a shared reality, not
an individual burden.

The document, which outlines the health status and living conditions of seniors across the
region, shows that the proportion of people aged 65 and older in the Outaouais is rising steadily,
projected to increase from 72,000 in 2021 to over 112,000 by 2041. Seniors already make up
nearly 18 percent of the population, and in some parts of the region, that threshold has already
been surpassed. According to the report, this shift is not merely statistical. It reflects deep social
and structural transformations underway and underscores the urgency of preparing physical,
social, and institutional environments that can sustain an older and more vulnerable population.

At the press conference, Dr. Brigitte Pinard, regional director of public health, presented the
report as both a diagnostic and a framework for collective action. She stressed that the health of
older adults cannot be addressed solely through health-care delivery but requires the
engagement of all sectors of society. Her remarks pointed to a clear challenge: while many
seniors in the Outaouais report satisfaction with their social lives, large numbers are also living
with chronic illness, limited mobility, and economic precarity.

The event featured several speakers, including Dr. Marc Bilodeau, Isabelle Léger, Dr. Brigitte
Pinard, Dr. Camille Paquette, and Patricia Gougeon, each of whom highlighted different aspects
of the report and the importance of community-wide responses to the region’s demographic
shift.

The findings show that nearly two-thirds of seniors are inactive or only minimally active. One in
two lives with hypertension, and one in four with diabetes. Rates of psychological distress
remain high, with close to one-third of older adults experiencing significant emotional strain.
Though the vast majority continue to live independently, housing insecurity, inadequate
transportation options, and the rising cost of living are pushing many to the margins. Eighteen
per cent of senior-led rental households face serious housing needs, and one in ten have
recently experienced food insecurity. As climate risks grow, seniors—especially those in urban
heat islands or isolated rural settings—face compounding threats from heat exposure and
limited access to cooling or green spaces.

Tuesday’s event also featured representatives from the Table de concertation des aînés et
retraités de l’Outaouais, who collaborated with the public health department in shaping the
report. The consultation table will take part in a series of territory-level consultations scheduled
for May, intended to adapt the report’s recommendations to the specific realities of local ​
communities.

Officials called for a shift in focus from emergency response to long-term planning, from
treatment to prevention, and from fragmented efforts to integrated approaches. Drawing from a
new provincial policy framework and an updated model of healthy ageing, the report places
older adults not only at the heart of the issue but also at the centre of the solution, proposing the
creation of environments that are safe, adaptable, and inclusive—places where seniors can
remain engaged, autonomous, and well.

Public health leaders described this work as an ongoing process rather than a finished product,
acknowledging the challenges ahead, particularly in balancing limited resources with growing
demand. Yet they insisted that the demographic transition now underway in the Outaouais also
presents a unique opportunity: in building a region that supports its seniors, the Outaouais will
be building a more resilient, connected, and compassionate society for all.

Photo: During a press conference with Dr. Marc Bilodeau, Isabelle Léger, Dr. Brigitte Pinard, Dr.
Camille Paquette and Patricia Gougeon, officials unveiled a major report urging coordinated
efforts across Outaouais to address the pressing health and social needs of its growing senior
population. (TF) Photo: Tashi Farmilo