Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

In Gatineau, since the start of the school year, a high number of infractions have been issued to drivers who have not complied with the highway safety code in school zones.

According to information from the Gatineau police, more than 1,719 tickets for speeding in school zones were issued between August 30, 2023 and June 20, 2024.

To make this heard and raise awareness about the problem among residents, a young boy named Émile Sirois from Lac-des-Fées school spoke at the October 22 city council meeting at the Maison du Citoyen. His message was that he and other schoolchildren should feel safe when riding their bikes or walking to school.

The speech was both simple and informative and it generated positive reactions from the public, councillors and the mayor of Gatineau, all aware that changes in terms of safety and mobility in schools are necessary.

Currently, several projects and initiatives are being rolled out. Initiatives by Gatineau police officers as well as infrastructure projects, such as the development of new bike paths, sidewalks and school corridors, will be funded by the federal government in order to improve mobility and safety for all.

Photo caption: Émile Sirois, during his speech at the municipal council meeting on October 22.

Photo credit: Mélissa Gélinas (MG)