Mélissa Gélinas

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

More than 14 years after the gruesome murder of Valérie Leblanc on August 23, 2011, the Gatineau Police Service (SPVG) announced the arrest of a suspect on September 30.

The identification of the alleged murderer in this case was made possible thanks to technological advances and the modernization of investigative techniques.

In a press release, the GPS confirmed that a count of premeditated murder was authorized by the Director of Criminal and Penal Prosecutions (DCPP) against Stéphane Rivard, a 51-year-old Gatineau man known to police. He appeared before a judge via videoconference on October 1.

“I would like to express my gratitude to all the staff members who worked tirelessly on this investigation over the years,” said Simon Fournier, Director of the SPVG.

Valérie Leblanc, 18, was found dead in the woods behind the Gabrielle-Roy campus of the Cégep de l’Outaouais, in the Hull sector. Upon arrival at the scene, police officers noted multiple signs of violence and burns on the victim’s body.

At the time, the coroner’s preliminary report revealed that the young woman’s death was caused by head trauma from a blunt object.

Anyone with information about this homicide is encouraged to contact the SPVG at 819-243-4636 (option 1).

Valérie Leblanc (September 30, 2025). MG Photo: Courtesy of the SPVG

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

The non-profit organization, Corporation plein air de la Lièvre de Buckingham, has been selected as a finalist in the Tourism Initiative category presented by Tourisme Outaouais for the 29th edition of the Excelor Gala to be held on November 15 at the Hilton & Casino du Lac Leamy from 4 pm to 10 pm.

“When we learned we were a finalist, we were extremely proud, because we’ve overcome so many challenges this year,” said Élodie Cyr, coordinator at the Corporation plein air de la Lièvre. “This is a great recognition for all the work we’ve accomplished.”

According to Buckingham City Councillor Edmond Leclerc, the Corporation is a source of pride for Buckingham.

The Excelor Gala

Presented by Enbridge Gaz Québec in collaboration with the Gatineau Chamber of Commerce, the Excelor Gala is a unique event in the Outaouais region, where nearly 1,000 people gather each year to promote local businesses by celebrating and honouring their success and contribution to the region’s economic development.

Corporation plein air de la Lièvre

In March 2009, a group of Buckingham residents wanted to boost outdoor activity services in the Lower Lièvre region and created the Corporation plein air de la Lièvre. Recognizing the recreational tourism potential of the Lièvre River, several financial partners, including Evolugen, the Caisses Desjardins, and the City of Gatineau, quickly joined the organization to develop the project, whose mission is to make quality outdoor activities accessible in a safe environment.

Thus, in 2012, the Lièvre Nautical Centre, located in Landing Park at 241 Buckingham Avenue, was created with a wide range of activities and events taking place on the Lièvre River with the rental of kayaks, pedal boats, paddleboards, canoes, and more.

In 2019, the non-profit organization expanded its entertainment offerings by taking over operations of Les Renards Blancs trail network, with cross-country skiing and snowshoeing activities on over 25 kilometers of marked and maintained trails. This is a “stand-alone” site where people of all skill levels can enjoy their activities freely.

During the same year, the municipality of L’Ange-Gardien acquired the Champboisé Regional Park, a site of over 165 acres of forest located along the Lièvre River. The corporation then developed a partnership with the municipality to organize outdoor activities over five kilometers throughout the four seasons. “During the summer and fall, we offer yoga and walks with interpretations of the flora and fauna,” said Cyr. “In the winter, we offer equipment rentals, cross-country skiing lessons, and more.”

To book an activity and learn more about the organization: https://pleinairlievre.ca/boutique/ and: https://www.facebook.com/corpo.lievre. People can also visit the site. “They can present their Gatineau access card, which offers discounts, but it’s not mandatory,” Cyr explained. “For boat rentals, it’s preferable to book online due to high traffic.” Prices vary from one activity to another, and some are offered free of charge.

To book tickets and for more information on the Excelor Gala: https://ccgatineau.ca/evenement/gala-excelor-2025-presente-par-enbridge/?fbclid=IwY2xjawNCVYVleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFBajlJT3IxUHdUZVpTY1JzAR7Ibsi4Hr_ZEPJlOzJ_IvyenOELb0u1iCAHpd2a3rYViUW4DQqCtbQzqcR81g_aem_SyNm259VT9I3TVFUnAxtrg 

Photo: Excelor Gala finalists in the Tourism Initiative category (From left to right): Corporation plein air de la Lièvre, FMG-Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival, and Terre & Neige (September 17, 2025) (MG) Photo: Courtesy of the Gatineau Chamber of Commerce

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

Due to increasing traffic congestion in Buckingham, particularly toward the Brady Bridge, City Councillor Edmond Leclerc announced at the September 16 City Council meeting, improvements to the traffic lights located at both ends of the bridge.

These improvements consist of adding a flashing signal to the green light for vehicles turning left off the Brady Bridge toward Georges Street and synchronizing the traffic lights at the beginning and end of the bridge to facilitate traffic flow during rush hour, i.e., mornings and afternoons.

These adjustments are planned for the coming weeks and will become permanent by November, according to Leclerc. “This is excellent news that will come very quickly,” he emphasized.

It should be noted that the traffic light at the intersection of Georges and Maclaren West was installed in January 2025. “When you install new traffic lights, there are always adjustments to be made in the first year,” he explained.

Leclerc emphasized that the installation of these lights was primarily for safety reasons, not efficiency. “It’s true that traffic flowed more smoothly before,” he commented. “However, I am convinced that we will make significant progress with these adjustments.”

Despite some residents’ concerns about traffic congestion for firefighters, Leclerc reassured the public that there was no danger. Indeed, the City of Gatineau is reportedly equipped with a system to clear lanes within an 800-meter radius, allowing fire trucks to move quickly, even during peak periods. For example, if a truck leaves the fire station in Buckingham for an operation on the other side of the bridge, the lane will already be clear before its arrival, due to the way the traffic lights are synchronized via the system.

Photo: Traffic congestion on the Brady Bridge in Buckingham (September 16, 2025) (MG) Photo: Courtesy of Edmond Leclerc

Mélissa Gélinas
Local Journalism Initiative

LITCHFIELD – A new transportation hub at the MRC Pontiac headquarters was inaugurated September 16, marking an important step in improving public transit and sustainable mobility in the region.

The event brought together several guests, including MRC Pontiac Warden Jane Toller, MRC des Collines Warden Marc Carrière, and Chelsea Mayor Pierre Guénard, who is also president of the sustainable mobility and transportation commission of the MRC des Collines.

The inauguration included a presentation of the project, speeches by dignitaries, a traditional ribbon-cutting and a photo session.

Key project achievements include:
• A new safe access road linking Highway 148 to Highway 301 North, improving the site entrance and ensuring safe passage for buses on the MRC grounds.
• Installation of a bus stop with a shelter served by intercity line 910 operated by Transcollines.
• Development of a park-and-ride lot for carpoolers and transit users.
• Installation of five charging stations for electric vehicles.
• Landscaping to green the site and reduce the visual and environmental impact of paved areas.

A press release also announced that Transcollines will soon launch an on-demand transit service along Highway 148.

“By encouraging carpooling, public transit and the use of electric vehicles, this project demonstrates Pontiac’s commitment to protecting the environment while making the area more attractive for residents […]” said Rachel Soar Flandé, economic development officer at the MRC Pontiac. The project was funded by the Regions and Rurality Fund (FRR).

Photo – Marc Carrière, Jane Toller and Pierre Guénard cut the ribbon at the inauguration of a new bus shelter at the MRC headquarters, served by Transcollines’ line 910, as part of the Pontiac Transportation Hub project.

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

The homeless situation is becoming increasingly prevalent in Gatineau, particularly in the Notre-Dame neighbourhood, where many businesses continue to feel unsafe.

In fact, more than 15 of them decided to unite by signing a letter sent in early September to the Gatineau Chamber of Commerce (CCG) and Gatineau Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette to denounce the situation and express their concern about possibly having to close their businesses.

Lucie Nadon, owner of the Escale Détente beauty salon located at 282 Notre-Dame Street, believes that the issue of homelessness has greatly increased in the area in recent months. “I have to lock the door to my salon so that customers feel safe,” she said. “People come here to relax, not to be afraid.” She said that many homeless people enter her establishment without an appointment. “They come to see what’s going on.”

Despite the numerous investments on Notre-Dame Street, Nadon believes it is dangerous for residents to go there. “We can’t even walk along the waterfront anymore,” she commented. Furthermore, according to her, there are more and more parties where homeless people gather. “It’s becoming very problematic.”

According to Nadon, quick solutions are needed. “Businesses really need help,” she said. “Obtaining more police surveillance would be ideal.”

At the municipal council meeting on September 16, Denis Girouard, councillor for the Lac-Beauchamp district, expressed his dissatisfaction with the lack of action taken in the neighbourhood. “The reality is that neither the mayor, nor the homelessness commissioner, nor municipal councillor Steve Moran is sufficiently concerned about the issues of homelessness in the Lac-Beauchamp sector,” he stated.

According to Girouard, there is no game plan to resolve the issue, despite the growing number of homeless people in Sanscartier Park, on the Lac-Beauchamp property, and on Notre-Dame Street. “From a municipal perspective, this is a complete neglect, and that is unacceptable,” he said. “We are finding used syringes left on the ground in our public parks that are accessible to children […].”

Girouard noted that the Homelessness Commissioner and the Chair of the Executive Committee decided to invest the most action and budgets in the downtown core. “The residents of Lac-Beauchamp have been more than tolerant,” he said. “Homelessness doesn’t only exist on the Guertin site!”

Photo: Denis Girouard, municipal councillor for the Lac-Beauchamp district, at the Gatineau City Council meeting (September 16, 2025) (MG) Photo: Screenshot

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

The Gatineau Social Pediatrics Centre (CPSG) is proud to have officially inaugurated the collective learning project entitled Boîte à Musique (BAM), dedicated to the development, creativity, and learning of vulnerable children in the region, on September 18 at the Gatineau Social Pediatrics Centre in the Old Hull sector.

Inauguration proceedings

Several partners, collaborators, community members, and guests of honour were present for the occasion, including The Honourable Greg Fergus, Member of Parliament for Hull-Aylmer and representative of Social Development Canada (ESDC).

The event began with opening remarks and a presentation of the CPSG and the BAM project. Speeches were then given by the Chairman of the Board of Directors, Pierre Landry, guests of honour, and partners. The inauguration then gave way to the official ribbon cutting, followed by a musical performance and an official closing ceremony presented by CPSG Dr. Anne-Marie Bureau. The event concluded with a guided tour of the centre.

“La Boîte à Musique embodies our mission: to provide children with a caring environment where they can develop their full potential, despite the challenges they face,” emphasized Landry.

“The Government of Canada is truly proud to be one of the groups supporting this vital project for our region,” commented Fergus.

Boîte à Musique

BAM is a collective music learning project that offers various types of activities for vulnerable youth in the region. It is funded in part by the Government of Canada through the Social Development Partnerships Program as well as by the following partners: BBL Construction, 1001 Voix, the Conservatoire de musique de Gatineau and the Choquette Legeault Foundation.

Conceived over 10 years ago in partnership with the Conservatoire de musique de Gatineau, the project took shape in 2017 and 2018 with two editions of the 1001 Voix benefit show. These events raised nearly $125,000. In 2022, the project came to fruition thanks to funding from ESDC, where several schools and early childhood centres (CPEs) were able to host the first workshops.

Since then, it has enabled the participation of over 540 children, including 530 activities and 289 workshops in partner kindergarten and CPE classes.

Mission:

• Break social isolation

• Contribute to children’s well-being by reducing their stress

• Develop self-expression and self-confidence

• Promote creativity

• Strengthen the sense of belonging

• Increase accessibility to learning music

The Gatineau Social Pediatrics Centre

Since 2009, the centre’s mission has been to accompany, support, and provide care to vulnerable children in the region, aged 0 to 17. The team is composed of over 20 professionals, including doctors, therapists, neuropsychologists, and more.

The numbers:

• More than 2,300 children supported since 2009

• 1,115 children received services between 2024 and 2025

• More than 11,076 interventions

• 70 mothers supported

• More than 200 children monitored this year

• 56 infants assisted since 2021

Photo: Musical performance with one of the doctors from the Gatineau Social Pediatrics Centre on the violin, the Boîte à Musique coordinator on the guitar, and a child receiving care at the centre on the bass (September 18, 2025) (MG) Photo: Mélissa Gélinas

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

Several topics garnered attention during the Municipal Council meeting held at the Buckingham Service Centre on September 16. Residents were able to express their views on various topics related to civil security, road safety, labour negotiations, and more.

Hydrogen Pipeline Project in Buckingham

Many members of the Buckingham Residents Association expressed their concerns about the route of the Enbridge Gaz Québec and Evolugen project, which involves the capture and transportation of 100% pure hydrogen at high pressure (3,500 kilopascals). The pipeline will cover more than 20 kilometers, passing through residential and sensitive areas in Buckingham and Masson-Angers, where many properties, seniors’ residences, daycares, gas stations, and more are located.

Moreover, more than three areas along the route are susceptible to landslides, in addition to being a route used by 7,000 heavy trucks transporting hazardous materials.

“This is, in particular, a world-first project imposed here in Gatineau […],” explained Véronique Santos, a member of the Buckingham Residents Association.

Although this project aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, residents are particularly concerned about the route, which could compromise public safety due to the risk of explosions linked to the volatile and flammable nature of hydrogen. “Hydrogen transportation can be very promising for energy transition, but not at the cost of public safety,” said Santos. “Our position remains the same: we oppose the proposed route, not the project.”

“Enbridge is imposing the riskiest option when we know there are other, safer routes available. They chose the route of the facility and also benefited from its acquired rights on Georges Street, where their buried natural gas pipelines are already located.”

Consequently, the project could not be subject to a Bureau d’audiences publiques sur l’environnement (BAPE) given the project’s characteristics (pipeline diameter and pressure in kilopascals), which were below the regulatory thresholds. Members of the Buckingham Residents Association nevertheless lobbied for the project to obtain a discretionary application for a BAPE from the Ministry of the Environment. For these reasons, the City of Gatineau voted unanimously in favour of the application.

Petition Against Speeding

A total of 182 signatures were collected to reduce the speed limit on Bertrand Street in Buckingham. Despite one resident’s success in getting signs installed indicating the 40 km/h zone, the speed limit has not been reduced. “With a population that continues to grow in our busy area, our young children are not safe,” says Sylvie Laframboise, a Bertrand Street resident for 30 years and a signatory of the petition.

“There are also a lot of four-wheelers and motocross bikes travelling at high speed,” explained Carl Simpson, a Bertrand Street resident and signatory of the petition. According to him, Bertrand Street serves as a shortcut to avoid having to pass in front of the police station located on George Street, which consequently causes a high volume of traffic. Edmond Leclerc, city councillor for the Buckingham district, recommends continuing to call 3-1-1 to obtain speed records. “By talking about it and trying all the other speed reduction measures, I believe we can get speed bumps, but the street has to qualify,” he said.

Gatineau Fire Department

Nicolas Houle, president of the Gatineau firefighters union, and Jean-François Olivier, vice-president of the Gatineau Firefighters Association, attended the city council meeting to denounce the city’s inaction regarding the various ongoing issues within the Gatineau fire department, such as the lack of equipment and outdated equipment and poor working conditions.

“Despite all our efforts, no representative from the City of Gatineau has followed up with us,” said Houle.

According to Olivier, there was only one negotiation meeting with the City in 2025.

The mayor emphasized that there are no negotiations when it comes to security. “The best way to have a collective agreement that suits you and meets your needs is for it to be negotiated,” she commented. “This is the solution we’ve been hoping for from the beginning, and I think everyone needs to compromise on that.”

Photo: City Council meeting at the Buckingham Service Centre (September 16, 2025) (MG) Photo: Mélissa Gélinas

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

The Gatineau Police Service (GPS) received a call shortly after 5 pm regarding a body found in the waters of the Kitchissipi Marina, located on the Ottawa River in Gatineau, on September 10.

“Once on scene, police officers assisted the paramedics,” said Maude Laverdière, Public Relations Officer for the GPS. The person was, however, pronounced dead at the scene.

For now, there is no indication of a criminal offense or suicide, according to the GPS. The identity of the person has not yet been released.

The investigation is ongoing and has been transferred to the coroner, where investigators are working in collaboration.

Photo: Kitchissipi Marina (May 14, 2025) (MG) Photo: Courtesy of Kitchissipi Marina, Gatineau

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

Following numerous negotiations within the City of Gatineau, the situation of the Gatineau Fire Department remains unchanged. Recently, a mediator had to withdraw from the case because the issues were deemed too divergent between the City and the department. As a result, the provincial government must now impose the arbitration process.

“This is the mandatory step,” explained Nicolas Houle, Vice-President of the Gatineau Firefighters Association. “We must follow the process, but that doesn’t necessarily mean we agree with it. We have always believed in negotiation.”

To achieve this, approximately three arbitration meetings with the City will be scheduled this fall. According to Houle, these are very few meetings to resolve the various issues. “We certainly won’t stand idly by,” he said. “Nothing’s going well.”

In addition, many requests have been made regarding the lack of fire engines. Most recently, the team had to travel to a fire scene in a pickup truck. There are also problems with facilities, outdated equipment, and more.

According to Houle, cases often end up in court. “For example, in 2015, when I was a fire station captain, I filed a report to have a shower repaired,” he explained. “In 2016 and 2017, I had to file two more reports and, in 2022, without a response, we were forced to file a complaint with the Commission des normes, de l’équité, de la santé et de la sécurité du travail (CNESST). It took seven years to win our case.”

Furthermore, a complaint against the City regarding bad faith negotiations and obstruction of the union’s work has also been filed. Hearings were held last spring, but the fire department has yet to receive a response. “You have to understand that our members have expectations, too,” Houle commented. “We have families. We still haven’t received a pay raise, not to mention our collective agreement, which has been unsettled for two years.”

Houle affirms that they will not stop demanding their services until the situation improves. “It’s unacceptable and it has to change,” he said. “The City isn’t protecting us well. We’re asking to be treated fairly and we’re seeking recognition for the health risks associated with the work we do.”

Notably, to make their case heard, hundreds of firefighter emojis have been featured in recent Facebook posts by the Mayor of Gatineau.

Photo: Firefighters at the Gatineau City Council meeting (June 10, 2025) (MG) Photo: Screenshot

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

A winter-spring 2025 citizen satisfaction web survey conducted by Léger was responded to by an average of 502 Gatineau residents aged 18 and over. During the press briefing on September 9, city councillors and the Mayor of Gatineau, Maude Marquis-Bissonnette, commented on the results.

Generally speaking, there were no major differences compared to the 2023 survey, according to Mario Aubé, city councillor for the Masson-Angers district. Indeed, the survey results show that the satisfaction rate in 2023, at 6.8 out of 10, remained the same for 2025.

However, the results revealed three main issues. The condition of the roads comes first, followed by the mental health of the homeless, and third, tax assessments and property taxes.

“Regarding infrastructure, 41% of respondents said they were satisfied with pothole repairs,” said Aubé. According to him, it’s not the work of our blue-collar workers that is inadequate, but rather the City’s investment.

Regarding the mental health of the homeless, Aubé asserted that it’s not up to the City to get involved. “We have to let Quebec do its job and force it to invest in this area,” he commented. However, the Mayor of Gatineau made it clear that it’s important to continue to structure action on homelessness. “If we do nothing, the problem will continue to get worse,” she emphasized.

Property taxes are a growing concern for Marquis-Bissonnette. “It’s difficult for many people to find housing and pay for groceries,” she said. “The survey indicates that 59% of respondents say it would be difficult to relocate to Gatineau if they had to move.” According to her, this is why the City had to make choices, including imposing a tax on parking lots to reduce the pressure on property taxes.

Despite the results, Buckingham District Councillor Edmond Leclerc believes the survey has no value for him. “It’s obvious that when we take a portrait of the City of Gatineau, we want to know the opinion of Gatineau residents, but in this survey, two of the City’s five sectors are presented for informational purposes only because statistically, the sample is not sufficient,” he said. In this way, according to Leclerc, there could have been a real sounding board if there had been representative samples from the Buckingham and Masson-Angers sectors.

As for the mayor, she believes that the survey is rather representative of the entire population of Gatineau. “Obviously, there are areas for improvement that we have identified,” she said. “I believe, despite everything, that this is an extremely important survey to know where we are and how we will continue to move forward.”

Photo: Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette during the press scrum (September 9, 2025) (MG) Photo: Screenshot

MÉLISSA GÉLINAS
LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

MRC PONTIAC – MRC Pontiac is developing a prototype geocaching app for five cycling routes across the region, including some in Bristol and Otter Lake.

Called the “Géotour du Pontiac,” the initiative will feature illustrated guides highlighting historical, cultural and noteworthy sites. “It’s a bit like a treasure hunt, using QR codes on a phone that lead to quizzes, videos and images,” said Stéphanie Hébert-Potter, Economic Development Commissioner for Tourism and Culture. “It’s similar to the concept behind Pokémon Go.”

The Pontiac spans 14,000 square kilometres and includes 18 municipalities and an unorganized territory. “There will, of course, be plenty of little hidden gems to discover,” Hébert-Potter said.

The prototype will allow the team to test, refine and develop the concept before expanding it along the cycling routes. It will be managed internally by the economic development team.

“Once the project is developed, there will be awareness and media campaigns to explain how the activity works,” she said.

During the prototype phase, the team will also work on solutions for areas lacking cellular coverage or network access.

Specific sites for the Géotour are still to be determined and approved.

MÉLISSA GÉLINAS
LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

L’ISLE-AUX-ALLUMETTES – A major affordable housing development is moving forward in L’Isle-aux-Allumettes, part of a province-wide initiative to speed up the construction of prefabricated homes. The federal government transferred $992 million to Quebec through the Canada-Quebec Agreement to support 11 such projects, one of which is Habitation L’Isle-aux-Allumettes, announced in August in the Upper Pontiac.

The project will be developed under the Affordable Housing Program of Quebec (PHAQ) and led by Habitation de l’Outaouais métropolitain (HOM). It will include 24 units for low- to moderate-income households. “In all our affordable housing projects, we try to ensure a portion of units can be subsidized under the Rent Supplement Program for low-income tenants,” explained Karina Osiecka, communications advisor and spokesperson for HOM.

Location and design
The complex will be built in a future subdivision sector near Centennial, Rochon, and Front streets, identified in the municipality’s preliminary urban development plan.

This site not only supports the immediate housing project but also positions the municipality to offer future serviced lots for families and new residents.

Different unit types, including family and individual housing of varying sizes, are planned. HOM has conducted a needs study to determine the best configurations for the community. According to Osiecka, strong demand is expected among seniors. “There is only one residence in the area, and many seniors are already on a waiting list,” she said

Municipal commitments
The municipality has pledged its support by donating two lots for construction, committing to provide water and sewer infrastructure, and considering a property tax credit for several years after the building is completed. According to the municipality, these commitments reflect council’s recognition of the critical housing shortage identified in a recent municipal survey, which showed strong demand among seniors, families, and workers.

To complete the necessary infrastructure, L’Isle-aux-Allumettes has applied for funding under the Federal Canada Housing Infrastructure Fund and continues to explore other financing solutions to keep the project on track

Broader benefits
Mayor Corey Spence emphasized both the immediate and long-term impact. “This 24-unit development is about more than bricks and mortar—it’s about allowing seniors to remain in our community, supporting young families so they can thrive, and welcoming new residents whose presence will spark growth and create a ripple effect in our local economy,” he said

Spence also highlighted the significance of being chosen: “Being one of only 11 municipalities selected across the province shows how ready and capable we are to adapt quickly and deliver affordable housing solutions for our community”

Next steps
HOM is currently in the design phase. The final details—including unit sizes, number of bedrooms, and rental amounts—are not yet available. Once determined, the public will be able to register their interest through the HOM website (www.homgatineau.com) and Facebook page.

Construction for all projects is scheduled to begin in summer 2026. Because these are prefabricated buildings, the timeline will be shorter than conventional builds, though no exact start date has been confirmed. “We are still at the preliminary stage, and many details remain to be worked out,” said Osiecka

According to a press release from the municipality, “The project, backed by provincial and federal investments, municipal commitments, and HOM leadership, represents a major step toward building a more inclusive, resilient, and vibrant community in L’Isle-aux-Allumettes.”

Photo – Site of the planned 24-unit affordable housing project in L’Isle-aux-Allumettes, near Centennial, Rochon, and Front streets. (L’Isle-aux-Allumettes)

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

The situation regarding the Maison du Citoyen was brought to light during the City of Gatineau’s press briefing on September 2. Only 45 years after its construction, the building is in complete disrepair, with restoration costing over $200 million.

Inaugurated in October 1980, the Maison du Citoyen won numerous architectural awards. The former City of Hull also received the 1982 award from the Canadian Association of Municipal Administrators for the most innovative municipal project in the country. Materials such as steel, brick, and granite were used to ensure the building’s long-term preservation. However, the vast majority of the building’s components, such as the plumbing, electrical, mechanical systems, and brick cladding, will reach the end of their useful life within the next five years.

Several scenarios have been put on the table to find a solution to the problem, whether through renovation, demolition, or complete relocation of the facility. Indeed, the executive committee has been considering the matter since October 2024. “This is a discussion that will need to be held in the coming months, as the scenarios become more precise,” said Catherine Craig-St-Louis, municipal councillor for the Carrefour-de-l’Hôpital district.

There is no imminent danger, according to Mario Aubé, municipal councillor for the Masson-Angers district, but the necessary work must still be carried out quickly. “This isn’t the first time we’ve heard that the roof in the Agora is leaking,” he said. “We haven’t invested enough in our infrastructure in recent years, and that’s exactly what we need to do before moving on to other major projects.”

For Gatineau Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette, there will be a lot of management to do. “The Maison du Citoyen is part of our modern heritage, and we have our share of responsibility to preserve it,” she says. According to her, the municipal team isn’t ready to make decisions. There will certainly be urgent decisions to be made regarding certain projects, but none related to the fate of the establishment. “A game plan will be proposed in the 2026 budget that will give direction on how to proceed for the year.”

Photo: Maude Marquis-Bissonnette, Mayor of Gatineau, during the City of Gatineau press scrum (September 2, 2025) (MG) Photo: Screenshot

Mélissa Gélinas
Local Journalism Initiative

MRC PONTIAC – A project to develop a flood adaptation plan for MRC Pontiac was launched on July 17, following a $50,000 grant from the Quebec government.

The two-year project, running from 2025 to 2027, will establish strategies and actions to strengthen residents’ safety. “It is a collaborative effort that will require working closely with community leaders,” said Benoit Delage, executive director of the Outaouais Regional Council for the Environment and Sustainable Development (CREDDO).

The Pontiac was hit hard by flooding in 2017 and 2019, particularly in Fort-Coulonge. At that time, a master development plan was created to reassess land-use zones. “We carried out a similar process for the Lac-Beauchamp and Pointe-Gatineau sectors, and we asked ourselves many questions about what actions to implement,” explained Delage. “There are limits to what can be done. We cannot rebuild, but we can redesign the territory to create buffer zones, for example.”

Details of the plan have not yet been released, but for now, Delage emphasized that the focus is on consultation with residents to develop solutions. “This will allow for better planning in Pontiac municipalities to improve preparedness for flood-related emergencies,” said Jane Toller, Warden of MRC Pontiac. “Above all, this plan aims to improve communication with residents to strengthen public safety.”

In addition, surveying work will be carried out across the Pontiac by the end of October 2025, according to Toller. “These surveys, which are part of the flood adaptation plan, will improve the accuracy of previously collected data,” she noted.

MÉLISSA GÉLINAS
LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

FORT-COULONGE – Fort-Coulonge is facing serious problems with its sewer system after two pumps were badly clogged with items such as mops, wipes, and gloves.

According to Michel Ladouceur, head of public works, the issue began a few weeks ago when one pump blocked seven times, breaking a conduit. “The last week in July, four mops and numerous wipes were removed,” said Mayor Christine Francoeur. Currently, only one of the two pumps is working.

Ladouceur said many residents are unaware of the strain. “For them, life goes on. They flush normally while our workers are called out at 8 or 9 pm for long shifts,” he explained. Workers receive automatic alarms on their phones to monitor the systems.

The problem is not new. “Since wipes became popular, pumps that once lasted for years now clog regularly,” said Ladouceur, noting one pump installed in 1969 lasted decades. Labels claiming wipes are flushable or biodegradable are misleading, he added, and repairs are costly. “Last year we had an estimate of nearly $60,000 to fix a pump,” he said. Major incidents now occur about twice a year. “It’s the municipal budget that takes the hit—and ultimately taxpayers.”

The issue extends beyond Fort-Coulonge, with similar problems reported in Shawville, Mansfield, Campbell’s Bay, and Gatineau. In Campbell’s Bay this June, two pumps had to be rebuilt due to wipes. “It’s essential to remind residents not to flush wipes, grease, or other non-biodegradable materials,” said Jessica Nilsson, Campbell’s Bay water management director.

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

To mark Local Shopping Week, the Association of Businesspeople and Professionals (AGAP) of Old Gatineau and its partners invited local businesses and residents to participate in the first edition of the festive Main and St-René Open Doors at Main Square on Duquette Street East in Gatineau.

Participating businesses included Chez Lou Patate, Les 3 Cousins ​​Shawarma et Poutine, the Crèmerie Flamingo, the Épicerie Selah, and more. For the occasion, numerous family activities, such as a treasure hunt, children’s face painting, games, music, a barbecue, and raffles were offered free of charge. The NezTincelles (Tenderness Clown) troupe was also on hand to add colour and joy to the Main Square.

In addition, Local Shopping Week is a Quebec initiative in association with Main streets, which took place from August 18 to 24, where more than 80 partners across Quebec, including municipalities, organizations, associations, and more, came together to promote local purchasing. “Everyone decides to do a little bit of what they want, suggest various activities […],” explained Pauline Bouchard, director general of the AGAP du Vieux-Gatineau. For the event, a treasure hunt was proposed to identify different merchants in the neighbourhood. “On a street with an atmosphere like Main, we find what we call concrete businesses,” she added. “You also must have a little interest in going there; otherwise, people don’t dare go in. It’s not like a shopping centre where people go into any store and don’t feel intimidated if they haven’t bought anything. The idea is to reduce the shyness between the sidewalk and the front door.”

AGAP hopes to be able to repeat the event next year. “It will depend on the feedback survey,” said Bouchard. “This year, we had eight weeks of programming with various activities. The issue is always the level of publicity.”

According to Bouchard, however, several improvements were made this summer, including the redesign of the parking space for Studio 157, the reduction of speed limits on the street, the addition of flashing lights at the pedestrian crossing, the beautification of the Square, and more. “To continue these improvements, merchants must continue to be involved and mobilized,” she emphasized.

Photo: Overview of the Main Square during the first edition of Open Doors. Festive Main and St-René (August 23, 2025) (MG) Photo: Mélissa Gélinas

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

Following two rejections of a $20 million grant from the provincial government for the two-rink arena project in the Buckingham sector, Edmond Leclerc, Buckingham District Councillor, provided an update on the matter during the latest press briefing on August 20.

The $40 million project consists, first, of building a two-rink complex at Hormisdas-Gamelin High School, similar to the one in the Branchaud-Brière complex. This arena would be to replace the existing ones in Buckingham and Masson-Angers, which are considered dilapidated.

The City of Gatineau, the Centre de services scolaires au Cœur-des-Vallées, and Vision Multisport Outaouais are partners in the project. “At this stage, after receiving two grant rejections from the provincial government, it’s up to the city to show that it believes in the project, to demonstrate that it wants to seize the opportunity, and that it wants to offer the Buckingham and Masson-Angers areas new infrastructure,” said Leclerc.

According to Leclerc, the only financial partner missing for the initial investment is the City of Gatineau. “Infrastructure investments must also come through the city, since the Quebec government won’t do it alone,” he explained. “Often, we have to rely on partnerships with the private sector, the school system, and municipalities.”

Leclerc remains positive about the project’s realization. According to him, Vision Multisport Outaouais has been able to make significant progress on the project. “I would be more than willing to have the City become a partner and for us to move forward with financial involvement,” he said.

According to Leclerc, eastern Gatineau is in dire need of new sports infrastructure. “We’ve seen recently in the media that the population feels they’re not getting their fair share,” he said.

Photo: Edmond Leclerc, Buckingham District councillor, answers questions from the media during a press scrum. (August 20, 2025) (MG) Photo: Screenshot

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

To mark the 17th edition of the Solo Car-Free Challenge that will run from September 1 to 30, and to showcase initiatives promoting sustainable mobility in the Outaouais and Abitibi-Témiscamingue regions, a MOBI-O press conference was held at the Donalda-Charron Library in Aylmer on August 19. Many partners and guests were present for the occasion.

The Solo Car-Free Challenge was started in 2009 from a local initiative led by the Réseau des centres d’expertises en mobilité (RCEM) in central Quebec and Mauricie. “Since then, it has spread across the province, from its second edition,” said Myriam Nadeau, Executive Director of the RCEM. According to Nadeau, this is a friendly competition that aims to regulate the dependence on solo driving by participating, in a spirit of kindness and conviviality, using a mobile application. This will be available, for each edition, on the App Store or via the Android app store and will allow the accumulation of points and rewards.

Since 2021, there has been a 57% increase in participants and a 36% increase in registered organizations, according to Nadeau. “On average, we have traveled 245,000 sustainable kilometers per edition, which is equivalent to circling the Earth six times,” she noted. “In addition, 52,300 tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) emission has been avoided, the equivalent of what 26,000 cars emit per year.”

September 2024 marked the first time the competition took place over a one-month period. “This extension made it easier for people to change their habits,” said Nadeau. In four weeks, more than 3,700 participants across Quebec managed to cover 1.4 million kilometers. Given the success of the previous challenge, it will be repeated for the same duration this year.

“The City of Gatineau is very proud, once again, to be associated with the Défi sans auto solo, which is a promising event to celebrate sustainable mobility in all its forms,” said Catherine Graig-St-Louis, representing Gatineau Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette. Graig-St-Louis is municipal councillor for the Carrefour-de-l’Hôpital district and chair of the Commission on Transportation, Sustainable Travel and Safety for the City of Gatineau. According to her, this is a relatively difficult initiative because it requires a lifestyle change. This competition will also depend on the infrastructure put in place. “For these reasons, I thank you for participating in the challenge with us so that we can continue to work together to improve sidewalks, bike paths and public transportation,” she said. “I am sure it will become easier and easier.”

According to Patrick Robert-Meunier, co-executive director of MOBI-O, in addition to this competition, there will be several other active transportation initiatives/activities presented in schools starting this fall as part of the At school, on foot or by bike, I can do it! campaign. “With the financial support of the City of Gatineau and the Government of Canada, nine schools in the region will be participating,” he emphasized. “With the start of the school year approaching, we are also taking this opportunity to encourage schools to get involved.” To register and/or for more information on the Solo Car-Free Challenge: https://www.defisansauto.com/

Group Photo: (from left to right) Pierre Guénard, Mayor of the Municipality of Chelsea; Brice Kamgang, Vice-President of the Gatineau Chamber of Commerce; Myriam Nadeau, Executive Director of the RCEM; Simon Desjardins, Advisor, Community Relations at Hydro Quebec; Patrick Robert-Meunier, Co-Executive Director of MOBI-O; Catherine Graig-St-Louis, Municipal Councillor for the Carrefour-de-l’Hôpital District and Chair of the City of Gatineau’s Commission on Transportation, Sustainable Travel and Safety; and Jocelyn Blondin, Municipal Councillor for the Manoir-des-Trembles-Val-Tétreau District and Chair of the STO Board of Directors

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

To celebrate M-Ado Jeunes’ 30th anniversary, a variety of free activities took place at Maclaren Park (under the bridge) located at 575 Buckingham Avenue on Saturday, August 9. Inflatable structures, games, entertainment, shows, a barbecue, and much more were on hand to create a friendly, festive, and lively atmosphere.

“This summer marked a very special moment in the history of M-Ado Jeunes. We celebrated our 30 years of commitment to the youth of our community!” said Kathy Lépine, Coordinator at M-Ado Jeunes.

Several community organizations in the region contributed to the event, including CDC Rond Point, Centre Alpha Papineau, Maison d’Hébergement Pour Elles des Deux Vallées, Table de développement social de la Lièvre, the City of Gatineau, and the Lièvre Food Bank.

“We would like to sincerely and gratefully acknowledge the involvement of our partners, donors, and sponsors,” said Lépine. “Their generosity demonstrates a deep confidence in our mission and a genuine commitment to the youth in our community.”

Founded in 1995, M-Ado Jeunes is a non-profit organization that collaborates with the City of Gatineau, the Gatineau Police Service (SPVG), and several partners. It operates three service points in the east end of the city, in Buckingham and Angers. Since the beginning, about 7,000 young people have attended these establishments (youth centres) and it has been possible to observe a significant reduction in the rate of juvenile delinquency in the area.

According to Lépine, M-Ado Jeunes’ mission is primarily to welcome young people aged 10 to 17 into a safe, inclusive, and non-judgmental environment where they can create meaningful connections, express themselves freely, develop their autonomy, and reach their full potential. “Our youth centres are much more than meeting places. They are lively, stimulating environments where young people can reflect, get involved, experience community life, and participate in decision-making.”

A variety of programs and interventions are also offered, such as educational workshops, psychosocial support, group projects, recreational activities, and more. “Our activities are accessible, often free or at very low cost, because we take into account the socioeconomic realities of the young people we support,” Lépine emphasized. “We especially encourage their direct involvement in the selection, planning, and organization of activities. It’s their ideas, their projects, their interests that guide our programming.”

As coordinator, Lépine’s role is, above all, people-oriented. “It’s a role I embrace wholeheartedly because it allows me to maintain close contact with the team and the youth, and to ensure that everything we do is consistent with our values,” she said.

The organization’s success, she believes, is the result of true teamwork, united and committed to the well-being of the youth.

Photo: Kathy Lépine, coordinator at M-Ado Jeunes (beige shirt and tattoos) with her entire team (August 2025) (MG) Photo: Courtesy of Kathy Lépine

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

The Forum Group’s Buckingham Market commercial project officially began the second phase of its construction at the intersection of Maclaren and Lépine on August 12. For the occasion, a groundbreaking ceremony was held on the site by Gatineau Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette, Buckingham City Councillor Edmond Leclerc, and the team from the real estate developer, the Forum Group.

Phase one of the project allowed for the construction of the Super C grocery store, which has attracted a large number of visitors. As for the second phase, the following establishments will be built by the end of winter 2026: a Familiprix pharmacy, a Desjardins Caisse, a National Bank, a Mondou pet store, and a beauty salon. The project will have a total of four phases, which could be completed by 2028.

According to Councillor Leclerc, this commercial development will be quite permissive in terms of services. “If we have entrepreneurs who are well invested in commercial banners, in commercial premises that will be leased by one service or another, I believe it’s up to the market to determine what will be profitable […],” he said.

According to him, this is a welcome commercial opportunity in the area. “The arrival of a new population base also brings a new service base with more diverse businesses,” he explains.

Regarding Buckingham Avenue, Leclerc’s mission in the event of a future mandate would be to implement a specific urban plan like the one seen in the Old Aylmer area. “There may eventually be more oversight to create the right conditions for revitalization,” he commented. “This is a street with a strong atmosphere that we want to revitalize more significantly.”

Photo: Sod breaking with Gatineau Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette, accompanied by Buckingham City Councillor Edmond Leclerc and the Forum group team (August 12, 2025). (MG) Photo: Courtesy of Edmond Leclerc.

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

With the start of the school year fast approaching, more and more families in the region will be using Centraide Outaouais’ Back-to-School program.

Created in 1995, the program’s goal is to provide new school supplies at a reduced price to children from disadvantaged families. Since its inception, more than 57,000 children have benefited from this assistance. The program is co-managed by some 20 neighbourhood and family organizations in the Outaouais region. “People must register with the organizations that will be responsible for delivering the services,” explained Cédric Tessier, Executive Director of Centraide Outaouais. Several of them will set up a “sharing store” where families can go to shop for their school supplies at 25% of the price. This year, with the rising cost of living, the organization expects to help nearly 2,500 people. According to Cédric Tessier, there has been a sustained increase in the number of applications for the program since 2021.

Across the Outaouais region, the Hull sector appears to be the area with the highest rate of extreme poverty. “This is the area where we see the most children being helped,” said Tessier. “We can also see pockets of poverty in slightly wealthier areas, such as the Aylmer sector, and in all the regional county municipalities in the region.”

Single-parent families and families with only one parent working appear to be those who rely most on financial assistance. “These are people who are active in society, who contribute, but who are unable to make ends meet because of ever-rising prices and wages that aren’t keeping up,” he said.

For more information on the program: https://centraideoutaouais.com/que-fait-on/programmes/retour-en-classe.

Photo: Cédric Tessier, Executive Director of Centraide Outaouais with Daniel Coutu, magician, host and singer (May 1, 2025) (MG) Photo: Courtesy of Centraide Outaouais

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

Nearly 40 firefighters from the Gatineau Fire Department were deployed to a major fire that broke out at the rear of a semi-detached house located at 1735 Rue Parisien in Gatineau on Saturday, August 2 at 6:29 pm. The flames quickly spread to the adjacent semi-detached house, subsequently affecting a total of four residences.

As stated in witness accounts, the flames first appeared on the rear balcony of the residence. The cause remains undetermined. According to Martin Vézina, Chief of the Intervention Division of the Gatineau Fire Department, the cause was neither criminal nor intentional. Rumors are circulating that the fire was caused by a barbecue. The extent of the damage was estimated at nearly $1 million. “We still managed to limit the damage to the semi-detached house to the right of the residence in question,” said Vézina. However, the original building was declared a total loss.

A total of 12 residents had to be evacuated. None of them were injured. “The police did an excellent job evacuating the residences throughout the response,” Vézina noted.

“Around 10:30 pm, the situation was under control,” he said. “We took the time to sympathize with the affected residents. Some had lived there for some time. This kind of situation is always moving for us, especially for those who have lost everything.”

No investigation will be held into the cause of the incident. “Following the information and the testimonies obtained, the police department and ours decided to leave the cause undetermined,” explained Vézina.

Photo: Firefighter in front of the burning residences on Parisien Street (August 2, 2025) (MG) Photo: Courtesy of Pierre-Luc Lahaie

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

Marie-Soleil Labelle, a Gatineau resident, student, race car driver, and co-founder of the Gilles Villeneuve Museum racing team, received the King Charles III Coronation Medal on June 14 at the Senate of Canada during an official ceremony.

The medal commemorates the coronation of King Charles III in 2023 as King of Canada. It is awarded by the Chancellery of Honours at Rideau Hall (an office of the Government of Canada).

More specifically, it is a special commemorative distinction to honour the significant contributions of Canadians within their communities or abroad. This medal was created on May 6, 2023, to mark the coronation of King Charles III and it will also be presented to more than 30,000 deserving individuals across the country.

“As the Member of Parliament for Gatineau,” said Steven MacKinnon, “I have the privilege of presenting the King Charles III Coronation Medal to Ms. Marie-Soleil Labelle, in recognition of her exemplary commitment to community service, reflecting the deep values of integrity, altruism, and dedication to others. My sincere congratulations.”

Marie-Soleil, 20, is a young entrepreneurial and committed woman. She is notably involved with the non-profit organization “Women in Motorsports North America,” whose mission is to create an inclusive environment while fostering learning, mentorship, and promotion to ensure the future of this sport, which paves the way for female drivers. Marie-Soleil is also studying at the University of Ottawa to obtain a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering.

Photo: Marie-Soleil Labelle accompanied by Steven MacKinnon, Member of Parliament for Gatineau, holding the Coronation Medal of King Charles III. (June 14, 2025) (MG) Photo: Courtesy of Matthew Saleh

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

During the city council meeting on July 8, a few councillors, coordinators, and a lawyer expressed their disagreement with the new regulations affecting the homeless people on the Guertin site. Despite the opposition, the bylaw was ultimately adopted by a majority of 15 city councillors.

This new draft bylaw will, more specifically, regulate the occupation of the site through codes of conduct that must be respected, particularly concerning sanitation and fire services. To do this, a free temporary permit will be required to occupy a space of 20.25 square meters for a period of six months, with the possibility of renewal.

Mario Aubé, city councillor for the Masson-Angers district, understands the desire to regulate the area, but, according to him, adopting a bylaw authorizing its use sends the wrong message. “We’re restricting humans to a ’10 by 10′ by publicly stating that in Gatineau there’s free urban camping […], get your permit, we’ll give you a square space, pitch your tent, and you’ll be good for six months,” he said. “Those who don’t want to follow the rules will end up leaving and going elsewhere.”

This regulation, according to him, targets vulnerable citizens who just want to find a simple space to live. “What we need is real community support to intervene with these people,” he explained. “It’s not the City’s duty to play that role.”

Considering Article 16, which prohibits propane tanks, and Article 17, which prohibits the use of heating devices, the situation is likely to become more difficult once winter arrives. “This will compromise safety during extreme cold,” emphasized Vanessa L. Constantineau, coordinator of the Outaouais Association for the Defense of Social Rights. According to her, this is a project that violates the right to life.

On the other hand, for Alexandre Gallant, coordinator of the Outaouais Regional Collective to Combat Homelessness (CRIO), this rule constitutes an invasion of privacy and personal dignity. “No citizen would accept a city officer entering their home to check if the dishes have been done,” he commented.

Moreover, Gallant pointed out that this new bylaw was implemented without any guidelines. “The City of Gatineau is working on a camp management guide […] which is supposed to explain how to implement interventions, but unfortunately, it’s not ready yet,” he said.

Notably, according to Anne Thibeault, a lawyer at the Outaouais Interdisciplinary Social Law Clinic, these regulations were not presented in their entirety. “Although there was a committee that reviewed its implementation, they had no say in the matter […],” she said. “This is not a proper democratic consultation [….]”

Photo: Mario Aubé, municipal councillor for the Masson-Angers district, answering questions from the media during the press scrum (July 9, 2025). (MG) Photo: Screenshot

Mélissa Gélinas

Local Journalism Initiative

OUTAOUAIS – The Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg community has launched the Kidjīmāninān (“Our Canoe”) project, inspired by the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework adopted at the 15th Conference of the Parties (COP15).

By 2030, the project aims to achieve three of the agreement’s 23 priority targets, while also meeting new requirements set out in the Government Land-Use Planning Guidelines (OGAT). The three main objectives are to prevent the near-total loss of biodiversity-rich areas, protect 30% of terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems, and restore 30% of degraded ecosystems.

The Outaouais is one of Quebec’s most biodiverse regions, home to over 113 plant species, 92 animal species, and 22 species of bryophytes (mosses) and lichens. Yet only 10.2% of the region’s territory is currently protected.

“We’ve spent nearly 20 years building expertise in protecting endangered species, and we wanted to take on a larger regional leadership role in conservation on our traditional territory,” explains Érik Higgins, manager of the Kitigan Zibi Natural Resources and Wildlife Office.

To incorporate traditional ecological knowledge, teams of land guardians will be deployed to conduct field studies and collaborate with biologists and botanists.

Each participating MRC will receive $82,500 in federal funding. “All MRCs in Gatineau and the Outaouais, except Vallée-de-la-Gatineau, have agreed to join the initiative,” says Higgins. “This is new for us. Until now, we’ve focused mostly on Kitigan Zibi. Now, we’ll need to build new relationships with partners—and I believe we’ll be stronger together.”

According to Kari Richardson, Environment Manager for the MRC Pontiac, the funding will support research projects aimed at producing a regional profile that includes an assessment of species, natural areas, and culturally significant conservation sites.

To make this happen, collaboration will be needed from municipal governments, landowners, and local stakeholders. Richardson notes that landowners with properties deemed to have conservation value will be invited to allow the Coopérative de solidarité des Forêts et des Gens, a non-profit organization, to carry out ecological inventories. These studies will help formulate recommendations to preserve key elements of the Outaouais’s natural heritage. Public consultations are expected to take place in 2026. “We hope this model of collaboration between First Nations and MRCs will strengthen our partnerships and encourage other projects in the future,” she adds.

Higgins also emphasized the importance of engaging citizens and raising awareness about biodiversity issues and the importance of protecting nature.

Throughout the summer, the Kitigan Zibi Natural Resources and Wildlife Office, in collaboration with Tourisme Outaouais and other partners, will host a tour of interactive information booths across the region. These booths will appear at markets, festivals, and other public events, including the Shawville Fair on August 30.

“It will be a great opportunity to share our project with the public,” says Higgins.

Mélissa Gélinas

Local Journalism Initiative

PONTIAC – Pontiac MNA André Fortin was recently appointed by newly elected Quebec Liberal Party leader Pablo Rodriguez to two key roles: chief whip and critic for higher education. The appointments were announced June 26.

These new roles are part of Rodriguez’s efforts to reshape the party’s leadership team and build a renewed Liberal caucus amid the ongoing revitalization of the party. Four MNAs have joined Rodriguez’s team at the National Assembly: Fortin, Michelle Setlakwe (Mont-Royal–Outremont), Filomena Rotiroti (Jeanne-Mance–Viger), and Fred Beauchemin (Marguerite-Bourgeoys).

Chief Whip of the Official Opposition
The chief whip is responsible for ensuring discipline and coordination among party members. “It’s a role I’m happy to accept because it involves political strategy and ensuring that regional voices are heard within the party,” said Fortin. “It’s a great opportunity to help each elected official perform at their best.”

Fortin added that although he supported Charles Milliard in the leadership race, he’s honoured by Rodriguez’s trust. “To be given such a strategic role tells me Rodriguez wants to unite the party, regardless of who supported whom. I see that as a very good sign.”

Higher Education Critic
In his second new role, Fortin will represent the party’s positions on post-secondary education issues, including universities and CEGEPs. He will also work with the government to advocate for improved services in the Outaouais, especially as the education sector faces major budget cuts.

“The coming years won’t be easy for our CEGEPs and universities,” said Fortin, noting a significant lag in the programs offered to students. “The region faces serious challenges in education. I believe I’ll have many opportunities to advocate for the interests of the Outaouais in this new role.”

Fortin also retains his role as critic for agriculture and forestry, but will no longer serve as health care critic, a role that has been passed on to the former interim party leader, Marc Tanguay.

Photo – Pontiac MNA André Fortin. (André Fortin)

Mélissa Gélinas
Local Journalism Initaitive

MRC PONTIAC – Josey Bouchard—activist, volunteer, teacher, and municipal councillor in Campbell’s Bay—has officially announced her candidacy for Warden of MRC Pontiac in the election scheduled for November 2, 2025.

“After a lot of reflection, I felt this might be the next step in my path,” said Bouchard. “I’m putting my whole heart into this race and hope people choose what speaks to their hearts,” she added.

Background
For over a decade, Bouchard served as campaign director for her mother, Charlotte L’Écuyer, former Liberal MNA for the Pontiac riding. “I’ve been involved in politics for quite a long time,” she said. “I know exactly what it takes to be active in political life.”

She has also volunteered for several years with the Pontiac Agricultural Society, currently serving as first vice-president. “One of our key events is the Shawville Fair, held over the Labour Day weekend,” she explained. “I’ve been involved in the community for a long time and stay informed about what’s going on. ”Health care is one of the issues closest to her heart. “Since 2015, I’ve been advocating to raise awareness of the problems that followed the mega-merger with the urban health network, particularly regarding health and social services,” she said.

Economy and priorities
On the economic front, Bouchard acknowledges that the region faces many challenges. She believes it’s important to support entrepreneurship and help small and medium-sized businesses. “We need to develop alternative markets so we’re not relying solely on products from the United States,” she said.

She also pointed to forestry, tourism, and cellular coverage as major issues for MRC Pontiac. Addressing them, she says, will require continued advocacy and representation at higher levels. “We absolutely must not give up—we need to keep pushing, pushing, pushing, and stay determined when it comes to the issues facing our MRC,” she concluded.

Mélissa Gélinas
Local Journalism Initiative

QUEBEC – On June 12, the Quebec government adopted a modernized regulatory framework for flood zones, introducing a new risk management approach.

The goal is to better prepare Quebecers for flooding. The system relies on next-generation, cutting-edge mapping that will serve as a key tool for sustainable land-use planning and for informing citizens about potential risks. The maps will be available starting March 1, 2026, through a government portal.

These maps will show four levels of flood risk intensity, each represented by a different colour: dark red for very high risk, red for high risk, orange for moderate risk, and yellow for low risk.

The new regulations will define which activities are allowed in each type of zone. “For example, rebuilding a residential structure after a flood would be permitted in an area mapped as low risk but prohibited in an area classified as very high risk,” explained Josée Guimond, spokesperson for the Ministry of Environment.

Experts will assign risk levels using a chart that considers both the likelihood of flooding—ranging from 100% to 7% over a 25-year period—and the potential depth of water. “The effects of climate change are also taken into account,” Guimond added.

Pontiac MNA André Fortin acknowledged that the new maps represent an improvement over earlier versions, but he criticized the government’s approach. “These maps should have been made available before any discussion of the regulations,” he said. “As it stands, it’s backwards—we’re publishing the rules before the maps.”

According to Fortin, this will leave residents unsure whether they’re affected by the changes, making it impossible to contest them. “No one will be able to challenge the regulations because they won’t know if their property is included or not,” he said. “We’re asking the government to reverse its approach.”

Fortin also raised concerns about the absence of any process allowing citizens to contest the new flood zone designations. “This map doesn’t reflect reality,” he said. “It’s not the first time the government has released flood maps with errors. People living atop cliffs have found themselves included in flood zones.”

He noted that nearly all of Fort-Coulonge and Quyon now fall within mapped flood zones. “That’s why it’s essential to have a way to challenge the designations. Mistakes will happen—it’s normal—but there needs to be a way to correct them,” he added.

Pontiac Warden Jane Toller pointed to improvements in how construction and renovation are handled in flood-prone areas. She explained that new construction will not be allowed in high-risk zones, but it will still be possible to raise a house, modify access points, or relocate a central heating system out of the basement.

“Many of us who were flooded in 2019 expected property values to decline, but that hasn’t happened,” Toller said. “Waterfront properties in the Pontiac continue to gain value.”

Mélissa Gélinas
Local Journalism Initiative

OUTAOUAIS – The provincial government has ordered budget cuts totalling $510 million across all of Quebec’s school service centres and boards with a deadline of June 2026. For the Outaouais region, which represents about 5% of the province’s total population, that means cuts of $25 million for the 2025–2026 school year.

The Hauts-Bois-de-l’Outaouais School Service Centre (CSSHBO) must save over $1.6 million. “In a letter sent by the Ministry to Ms. Nadine Carpentier, Director General of CSSHBO, on June 12, the targeted budget optimization amount for our service centre was specified as $1,323,889,” explained Monia Lirette, CSSHBO Communications Coordinator. “That’s in addition to the $324,304 requested last December, bringing the total to $1,648,193,” she added.

According to Lirette, an analysis is currently underway with the Financial Resources Department, in collaboration with senior management and the school and centre administrators, to determine where the cuts can be made.

The Portages-de-l’Outaouais School Service Centre (CSSPO) faces cuts of approximately $11.4 million.

At the Western Québec School Board, which covers a large portion of the Outaouais, including the Pontiac and Abitibi-Témiscamingue regions, the total amount to be saved by next year is $4.5 million. “We were also asked for an additional $3.6 million, but we were able to justify that amount to the Ministry of Education,” said Pascal Proulx, Assistant Director General at the board. “We’ve already made the necessary efforts in staff optimization to ensure we’re not exceeding the number of employees we actually need,”
he added. According to Proulx, the $3.6 million should no longer be required due to these efforts.

To meet the required savings, the board eliminated 12 non-permanent or vacant positions. “We managed to cut $900,000,” said Proulx. “We also saved $85,000 by scaling back unused IT and software contracts.”

According to available information, additional cuts were made to travel budgets, non-essential contracts (such as window cleaning), tutoring programs, extracurricular activities and more. “We had to reinvent how we operate without affecting student services,” said Proulx. “The cuts didn’t happen as directly as they might seem,” he continued. “The entire organization believes the impact is significant, but we can still manage.”

“It’s unthinkable to cut funding in education,” said Pontiac MNA André Fortin. “Quebec Premier François Legault himself promised there would be no cuts in two sectors — health and education — yet we’re seeing the exact opposite.”

According to Fortin, the cuts will directly impact services for students, particularly those with learning difficulties. “It’s already hard to access specialized support, and it’s those services that are likely to be cut,” he said. “I hope Mr. Legault remembers the promise he made and reconsiders how these budget cuts are being imposed on the education system.”

In addition, new restrictions will limit staffing in public schools across Quebec. In 2025–2026, the number of full-time employees may not exceed 152,500 — an increase of just 1.7%, compared to the average annual growth of 5 to 6%. Private schools must also reduce their expenses, with $56 million in savings required by June 2026.

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

To protect and preserve the Lac-Beauchamp Park ecosystem, the City of Gatineau wishes to adopt a conservation plan that aligns with the actions of the Biodiversity Action Plan and the 2024-2029 Water Management Plan.

Lac-Beauchamp Park is a major eco-territory covering over 213 hectares. It also contributes to cultural life by hosting numerous annual activities. However, in recent years, its biodiversity has been severely degraded, particularly in terms of water.

Three orientations of the conservation plan:

• Ensure the preservation and sustainable use of ecosystems
• Raise awareness and inform citizens of the importance of conserving Lac-Beauchamp Park
• Integrate the conservation plan into municipal planning

Objectives of the conservation plan:

• Ensure the protection of threatened and/or sensitive species and natural environments
• Ensure the continuity of annual activities at Lac-Beauchamp Park
• Strike a balance between activities and environmental conservation/protection

“By protecting this unique eco-territory, we are ensuring both the richness of our biodiversity and the quality of life of Gatineau residents,” emphasized Marc Bureau, municipal councillor for Parc-de-la-Montagne and chair of the Environment and Climate Change Committee. “That is why the city wants to develop a conservation plan to ensure the protection of natural environments and species, while maintaining sustainable access to outdoor activities.”  Please note that an environmental characterization study is now underway to assess the current state of the park. The results will then be used to precisely determine the measures needed to ensure the park’s conservation.

As for the conservation plan, it will be established once it has been adopted by the municipal council. Based on the information gathered, actions will be implemented this year.

Photo: Lac-Beauchamp Park (June 28, 2025) (MG) Photo: Courtesy of Denis Girouard, Municipal Councillor for the Lac-Beauchamp District

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

Residents of Buckingham and Masson-Angers are concerned about the hydrogen (H2) pipeline project by Enbridge Gaz Québec and Evolugen, which is currently in the engineering phase. This unique project, scheduled for 2026, has drawn the attention of the Buckingham Residents Association for its lack of transparency and for having undergone no official public consultation.

This project involves, first and foremost, capturing and transporting 100% pure hydrogen at high pressure (3,500 kPa). To achieve this, the construction of a plant is planned to produce hydrogen through water electrolysis. This will, in turn, produce nearly 20 megawatts of green energy, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions. However, the pipeline route will run for nearly 20 km, passing through several residential areas and sensitive locations (schools, seniors’ residences, daycares, gas stations, and more). “There are also three areas along the route that are susceptible to landslides, in addition to a route used by 7,000 trucks transporting flammable materials,” explained Véronique Santos, administrator of the Buckingham Residents Association.

Furthermore, hydrogen is highly flammable and reactive. “In the event of a leak incident, or explosion, those locations within the impact radius will be directly affected,” Santos stated.

Although this project is primarily a renewable energy initiative, it should not be in a residential area, according to Ms. Santos. “We are not opposed to this project or the energy transition, but rather we are questioning the chosen route for this pipeline,” she said. According to her, the project is not comparable to those located in Markham or Varennes, which are being built in industrial zones.

Buckingham District Councillor Edmond Leclerc shares the same opinion. “The Enbridge hydrogen pipeline is, at first glance, a very good project, but it is, above all, a project that must pass the social acceptability test, and currently, it is failing,” he said.

According to Leclerc, the problem lies primarily in the reasons for the route chosen and the risks it entails. Therefore, to respect the will of citizens, the municipal council wishes to adopt a resolution requesting that the Quebec government submit it to a study by the Bureau des audiences publiques sur l’environnement (BAPE). “We have well-informed citizens who are questioning this project and who deserve to receive all the information and to be heard,” he commented. “This project must be able to move on to the next stages and it must be done in a transparent manner.”

Photo: Edmond Leclerc, Buckingham District Councillor, answers journalists’ questions about the H2 project during the press scrum (July 8, 2025). (MG) Photo: Screenshot

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

The City of Gatineau and the Fraternité des policiers et policières de Gatineau (FPPG) ratified a new collective agreement for this group of employees on June 26, after it was unanimously adopted by City Council.

“What you need to know is that the current agreement expires on December 31,” said Maude Marquis-Bissonnette, Mayor of Gatineau. “So, yes, we negotiated in advance, and the process was productive.”

The new employment contract, which will take effect on January 1, 2026, for a period of five years, provides for the hiring of 45 new police officers who will gradually join the teams over the next few years.

For FPPG President Steve Spooner, the addition of new staff represents a victory. “This will give us greater operational flexibility and allow us to create new sections, including a very interesting one called ‘Citizen Services’. In this unit, officers will go directly to those who are housebound, make appointments, and prioritize emergency calls received at the police station,” he explained.

The new agreement provides, among other things, salary increases of 24% over five years and the introduction of a seniority bonus representing 2.5% over five years. “There was definitely some catching up to do; we see this with the recruitment and retention issues,” said the mayor.

According to Mr. Spooner, it was difficult to attract new officers due to the low salary scale rates, especially in an inflationary environment. “The introduction of a seniority bonus that rewards loyalty will certainly help stem the exodus of experienced officers,” he believes. “We are now very competitive and believe we can attract young people graduating from Nicolet [Quebec’s National Police Academy].”

Photo: Steve Spooner, President of the Gatineau Police Brotherhood, accompanied by Maude Marquis-Bissonnette, Mayor of Gatineau, at the signing of the new collective agreement on June 26 (MG) Photo: Courtesy of Maude Marquis-Bissonnette

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

The Outaouais Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) is currently facing a capacity issue with an increase in the number of animals of more than 38% compared to last year.

The number of animals left to the care of the SPCA has increased by 54%. “We’re under a lot of pressure right now, particularly in terms of the number of cats we receive at the shelter,” said Ericka Muzzo, Communications and Marketing Manager at the Outaouais SPCA. “There is, in particular, a high number of stray cats in the region that must be taken into consideration.”

This is not, however, a new situation. “We live with an overflow of animals every year,” Muzzo commented. “Yet, with the recent moving season, the situation has become a little more difficult as many people have had to give up their pets.

According to Muzzo, it is strongly recommended to fill out an online form before bringing an animal to the SPCA to ensure that the number of arrivals can be properly managed and that each animal can have a cage and the necessary care. “We also recommend that people try to find a new home for their pet to avoid having to go through the shelter.”

In addition, according to information gathered, the $35 fee previously required to fill out the SPCA form has been cancelled to make the process more accessible.

To address the increasingly high number of animals in need of care, the SPCA is considering an expansion project. “Internally, we are putting in place various mechanisms to try to meet demand, and we’re asking for the public’s cooperation.” The primary goal is to ensure animal welfare.”

According to Muzzo, foster families who volunteer to help the animals, as well as donations, are a huge help.

Adopting an animal from the SPCA is highly recommended, especially cats, whose care is affordable. “The animals have already been seen by a veterinarian, they’re sterilized, and they’re microchipped,” she explained. “We’re very pleased to announce that our adoptions have increased by 23% compared to last year, partly due to the removal of adoption barriers.”

The shelter also has animals up for humanitarian adoption, meaning they have minor health concerns or specific behavioral needs. “These animals, unfortunately, stay in the shelter longer than others,” said Muzzo. “If people want to do a good deed, adopting one of these animals should be considered.”

For more information on the adoption process, to see the animals available for adoption, or to make a donation: https://spcaoutaouais.ca/.

Photo: Cat received at the Outaouais SPCA (June 28, 2025) (MG) Photo: Courtesy of the Outaouais SPCA

Mélissa Gélinas
Local Journalism Initiative

MRC PONTIAC – A merger of fire safety services between four Pontiac municipalities — Campbell’s Bay, Litchfield, L’Île-du-Grand-Calumet, and Bryson—took effect on July 1.

The consolidation is part of a new intermunicipal agreement. Under the plan, Bryson and L’Île-du-Grand-Calumet will now fall under the administration of the Campbell’s Bay–Litchfield fire service.

The goal is to strengthen response capacity while ensuring full compliance with the Quebec government’s fire risk coverage requirements. Each municipality will be expected to meet provincial standards uniformly, including response times, firefighter mobilization, training, access to appropriate equipment, and prevention and inspection measures.

According to Kevin Kluke, director of fire services and fire chief for Campbell’s Bay, the new collaboration will significantly increase the number of available firefighters. “Campbell’s Bay has 25 firefighters, while Bryson and L’Île-du-Grand-Calumet have around 20, bringing the total to 45,” said Kluke.

He added that there will be no operational changes, so residents don’t need to worry. “Bryson and L’Île-du-Grand-Calumet will continue to operate independently for smaller calls, just like Campbell’s Bay and Litchfield,” Kluke explained. “If there’s a [larger] fire in the region, we’ll have enough vehicles to support each other in the event of a second call,” he added.

Despite the many benefits of the merger, Kluke acknowledged there will be challenges. “I think the firefighters are a bit anxious about working together, even though they’ve done it before,” he said. “I hope that within a year or two, they’ll become first responders, because that would make a big difference for the people of Bryson and L’Île-du-Grand-Calumet.”

Financial resources and costs will be shared equally among the four municipalities. “A chartered accountant helped us plan everything so that Campbell’s Bay and Litchfield cover 50% of the expenses, and Bryson and L’Île-du-Grand-Calumet cover the other 50%,” said Kluke.

Mélissa Gélinas
Local Journalism Initiative

LITCHFIELD – By April 2027, the Litchfield-based company FilloGreen must pay a total of $125,000 in fines following an environmental infraction committed in 2018.

The lengthy process is due to delays in the investigation. “I don’t know if COVID played a role,” said Louis Potvin, communications advisor and regional spokesperson for the Ministry of Environment.

According to Laurent Kiefer, environmental technician at FilloGreen, this was an unusual case. “There’s a long history between us and the Environment Ministry,” he explained.

It all began in 2014, when the company submitted an application for a certificate of authorization to operate a construction material landfill.

Two years later, they still hadn’t received the certificate. “It was taking a long time —usually it doesn’t take years to get approved,” said Kiefer. Despite numerous discussions with the ministry, the issue remained unresolved.

In the meantime, FilloGreen had to transport its residual materials to Lachute. “It cost us a lot of money to send our trucks there,” Kiefer said.

By 2016 or 2017, with no certificate in sight, the company decided to store materials on-site. “We didn’t bury them—we just started accumulating them,” he said. “Every time, we thought the certificate would arrive soon and we’d be able to proceed with disposal.”

This accumulation led to tensions with the Ministry, which noted the growing volume of residual materials. After several inspections, FilloGreen was fined by the Ministry. “We opposed the fine and challenged it in administrative court,” said Kiefer. “Eventually, we chose to settle,” he added. The certificate to operate a landfill site was finally issued in June 2021.

Though the situation appeared resolved, it quickly took another turn. “Three years later, in May 2023, despite our good relationship with the ministry and compliant practices, we were shocked to receive a $400,000 fine from the Director of Criminal and Penal Prosecutions (DPCP),” Kiefer said. The fine was for improper disposal of residual materials in 2018. Since the infraction was over six years old, the ministry no longer had authority over the case, and the file was transferred to the DPCP.

To preserve its relationship with the ministry, FilloGreen agreed to pay $100,000 plus $25,000 in fees—a quarter of the original fine.

“Since 2021, things have gone well with the Ministry. They’ve issued us four new permits and conduct regular inspections at our site,” Kiefer said.

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

During a heatwave, more than 545 Val-des-Monts residents experienced a power outage that lasted nearly 12 hours on June 25.

According to Hydro-Québec’s website (Info-pannes), the power went out around 9:38 am. However, the announced restoration of power was continually delayed. “We were told that the situation would be resolved by noon, but when I got home from work around 4:30 pm, we were still without power,” said Nathalie Deschênes, a Val-des-Monts resident. “After 12 hours, around 9:49 pm, it was finally restored,” she adds. According to Deschênes, power outages are becoming increasingly frequent in the municipality. “Our generator doesn’t have much downtime as it’s running quite often,” she says. “I plan to get a bigger one, given how often there are outages.”

No information regarding the reason for the power outage has been shared with residents. “The weather was nice, the temperature was normal,” said Deschênes.

However, according to information gathered from Hydro-Québec, the incident was caused by a breakage that was reported during the night. “Our teams arrived on site around midnight and noticed that two (wooden) poles were broken,” says Cynthia Rivard, a community relations advisor at Hydro-Québec. However, the cause of the breakage remains unknown. The installation was temporarily secured.

As a result, the following morning, the teams on site noticed the situation had deteriorated. “Indeed, there were other damaged poles located along Route 307,” said Rivard. “Obviously, this was taken as a priority.”

Several reasons can explain the damage caused to the structures. According to Rivard, the most common causes are tree branches falling on the electrical wires, causing them to break. It can also be a car accident. “This explains the revision of restoration times throughout the day,” she explained.

Recommendations for a power outage during a heatwave:

• Stay hydrated

• Look for cool areas

• Keep refrigerator and freezer doors tightly closed

• Use a generator

Photo: Repairing a power pole (April 4, 2025) (MG) Photo: Courtesy of Hydro-Québec

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

Provigo Le Marché Charron Aylmer and its employees are proud to have participated in the Guinness World Record for the Largest Number of Parmigiano Reggiano Wheels Cracked on June 14.

More specifically, 1,800 Parmesan wheels were simultaneously cracked at more than 450 Loblaw stores across Canada, from noon to 2 pm.

Several guests were present for the occasion, including Suzanne Tremblay, Member of the National Assembly for Hull, as a judge. “It’s always a wonderful moment to witness a Guinness World Record,” she said. “It’s something quite unique, and it’s especially interesting to see the team spirit here between the employees, the Provigo owner, Eric Charron, and the connection with the community. We can see that this is a well-established business in the Aylmer area.”

According to Charron, the ripening of Parmigiano Reggiano can take up to 24 months before it reaches its peak of maturity. “Each wheel costs around $2,000,” he explained. It also takes approximately 550 liters of milk to make them.

To thank the first 20 witnesses to the event, they were offered a slice of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.

“The result of the Guinness World Record for the largest number of Parmesan cheese wheels cracked will be announced during the week of June 16,” said Charron.

Photo: Eric Charron, owner of Provigo Le Marché Charron Aylmer, accompanied by Suzanne Tremblay, Member of the National Assembly for Hull, with employees of the store, during the Guinness World Record for cracking Parmigiano Reggiano wheels (June 14, 2025). (MG) Photo: Mélissa Gélinas

Employees of Provigo Le Marché Charron Aylmer, during the Guinness World Record for cracking Parmigiano Reggiano wheels (June 14, 2025). (MG) Photo: Mélissa Gélinas

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

To combat the spread of aquatic invasive alien species, Benoit Charette, Minister of the Environment, Climate Change, Wildlife, and Parks, announced $366,665 in funding for 13 boat cleaning station projects across Quebec.

According to the Quebec government website, an aquatic invasive alien species is defined as a plant, animal, algae, freshwater or marine microorganism, virus, bacteria, or parasite. It is introduced outside its natural range by contaminating a new area and permanently altering the ecosystem. Its introduction can be intentional or accidental.

Examples of aquatic invasive alien species already established in Quebec:

• Goldfish

• Blood red shrimp

• Freshwater jellyfish

• Wood snail

• Zebra mussel

• Green sunfish

• And more

For the complete list of invasive alien species in Quebec: https://www.quebec.ca/agriculture-environnement-et-ressources-naturelles/faune/gestion-faune-habitats-fauniques/gestion-especes-exotiques-envahissantes-animales/liste-especes

“Reducing the spread of invasive alien species helps protect the health of our bodies of water and their ecosystems,” said Mr. Charette. “Cleaning boats is a simple and essential action that helps ensure the health and sustainability of Quebec’s waterways,” he added. “I thank the organizations that are responding to the call to participate in the fight against invasive species.”

To this end, the Quebec government has extended the Boat Cleaning Station program until 2027-2028. This will help control the arrival of other aquatic invasive alien species in waterways, which can spread rapidly and cause significant damage to the environment, humans, and the economy.

According to information from the Quebec government, controlling an invasive alien secies is very difficult and, as a result, generates considerable costs.

Organizations eligible for the Boat Cleaning Station program:

• Local or regional county municipalities (MRC)

• Non-profit organizations registered with the Registrar of Enterprises and dedicated to conservation, e.g., community wildlife areas, wildlife reserves (outside the Société des établissements de plein air du Québec (Sépaq) and more

• Communities and First Nations (recognized by the National Assembly of Quebec)

Note that applications must be submitted by the Minister, Benoit Charette, before July 31, 2027.

For more information on eligibility requirements: https://www.quebec.ca/tourisme-et-loisirs/activites-sportives-et-de-plein-air/aides-financieres-loisir-faune-plein-air/programme-stations-nettoyage-embarcations

Photo: Benoit Charette, Minister of the Environment, the Fight Against Climate Change, Wildlife and Parks, giving a speech on World Day for Threatened or Vulnerable Species (May 11, 2025) (MG) Photo: Screenshot

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

Budget cuts of $510 million will apply to all school service centres in Quebec by June 2026. As a result, Outaouais schools close to Ontario will face numerous challenges that will affect both staff and students.

According to Kim Lafleur Lauriault, president of the Outaouais school support union, the effects are already being felt by the exodus of staff to Ontario, including administrative staff heading to the public service. “It creates a snowball effect,” she explained. “When someone leaves, it creates additional work for another employee, and so on.” According to Lafleur Lauriault, the increased workload can also lead to overwork burnout, which is increasingly pervasive in the education sector.

For its part, the Ministry of Education wants everyone to collaborate and work together to respect budgets and ensure there is no impact on student services. However, Lafleur Lauriault states that these new restrictions will inevitably have a negative impact on students. “This will particularly affect students with special needs […],” she explained. “Any special support to which each student is entitled will therefore have to be cut from the budget.”

According to the information obtained, the population of Outaouais represents approximately 5% of Quebec’s total population; therefore, the Outaouais’ share of the $510 million budget cut will be about $25 million.

On the other hand, Education Minister Bernard Drainville insists that these are not cuts, but savings. Last year, investments were made for classroom support in 50% of elementary schools. Lafleur Lauriault, for her part, recognizes the importance of this measure, but she believes it is not effective if the government makes cuts elsewhere. “Minister Bernard Drainville is not aware of the reality and doesn’t know what’s going on,” she emphasizes.

In addition, further budgetary restrictions will have to be imposed on the number of employees in Quebec’s public schools. In other words, for the 2025-2026 school year, the number of full-time employees must not exceed 152,500. This represents a small increase of 1.7%, compared to an average growth rate of 5% to 6%.

As for private schools, they will also have to reduce their expenses. Specifically, this involves saving $56 million by June 2026.

Photo: Bernard Drainville, Minister of Education (March 1, 2025) (MG) Photo: Courtesy of Alain Raby

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

To date, nearly 700 residents of the city’s eastern sector have signed a petition calling for the demerger of the municipalities of Buckingham, L’Ange-Gardien, and Masson-Angers from Gatineau. The goal, in accordance with Bill R-19, is to combine these former municipalities to form a new, independent and efficient administrative entity.

In January 2002, Hull, Gatineau, Buckingham, Aylmer, and Masson-Angers merged to form the greater city of Gatineau. However, despite this merger, 23 years later, residents of the eastern sector are denouncing the glaring lack of investment in their municipalities.

“We still feel separate from the others, even forgotten,” commented a Masson-Angers resident. “Here, there aren’t many businesses or services, even though we all pay the same taxes.”

Current challenges facing older cities:

• Aging sports infrastructure

• Deteriorating road network

• Unsafe cycling network

• Lack of major municipal projects

According to Steve Moran, city councillor for the Hull-Wright district, the city’s geography poses a challenge. “Buckingham Avenue and Aylmer’s Principale Street are not the same thing, and we must respect that difference,” he said. “We must be able to help people celebrate their local identity.”

According to Moran, the merger does not represent a failure, but rather a challenge to ensure administrative compliance with a complex geography. “What I hear in this petition is that there are a lot of aspirations,” emphasized Mayor Maude-Marquis Bissonnette. “People have dreams for their area; they want it to be even more beautiful and to develop in a certain way. However, is demerging the best way forward?”

According to the mayor, it would be a heavy administrative task that would require a lot of time and money to rethink governance structures. “I’m far from believing that demergers have produced the desired results in other cities in Quebec,” she asserted. “However, we remain attentive to the people in the area, as we always do. I believe that having a large city gives us a strength that is truly interesting. For me, mergers were the responsible choice to make.”

Photo: Maude Marquis-Bissonnette, Mayor of Gatineau, answers questions from the media during the press scrum (June 18, 2025). (MG) Photo: Screenshot

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

All directors of the Youth Protection Department (YPD) met in Quebec City on June 19 to review the 22nd annual report on the province-wide reporting rate.

In the Outaouais region, specifically, there was a 4% increase. This increase in the number of reports is explained, in part, by the labour shortage in all child and youth protection centres (CYPC) in the region.

According to the information gathered, there are only 28 workers in the assessment service out of 58, representing a staffing level of 48%. The staff shortage is also evident among social work technicians and in other fields. Collette Nadeau, director of the YPD in Outaouais, stated that, despite the staff shortage, no case has been missed.

On the other hand, socio-economic factors related to the Phoenix payroll system, which affected thousands of public servants, could also have had an impact on the increase in reports to the YPD.

Last spring’s floods may also have explained this increase.

“Parents then become much less tolerant and patient with their children,” says Michelyne Gagné, director of the YPD in Outaouais. “It’s in these situations that they can lose control, hit their children, or neglect them, because they are exhausted and preoccupied.”

However, although there are increasing reports, only 34% of cases have been retained for intervention. In other words, approximately one-third of the reports were deemed sufficiently serious. According to the YPD, a child’s safety or development is considered at risk if there is:

– Abandonment

– Neglect or high risk of neglect

– Psychological abuse

– Direct or indirect exposure to domestic violence

– Abuse or risk of sexual abuse

– Abuse or risk of physical abuse

– Presence of serious behavioral problems

– Child running away

– And more

For more information on reporting to the YPD: https://www.quebec.ca/famille-et-soutien-aux-personnes/enfance/services-jeunes-difficulte-famille/protection-de-la-jeunesse/faire-un-signalement-au-dpj/motives-de-signalement

Photo: Directors of the Youth Protection Department (YPD) gathered in Quebec City for the 22nd annual review (June 19, 2025) (MG) Photo: Courtesy of the CIUSSS du Centre Sud de l’île de Montréal

Mélissa Gélinas
Local Journalism Initiative

CAMPBELL’S BAY – A 4-year-old girl walked away unnoticed from her daycare centre and was found about 500 metres away in front of Langford’s grocery store in Campbell’s Bay, where an employee spotted her alone in the rain on May 29.

“It was a rainy Thursday afternoon. While unpacking a delivery, I noticed a little girl pacing in front of our doors,” said Samantha Beauparlant, an employee at Langford’s. “She came toward me crying, saying she had lost her parents,” she added. “She had no idea how she’d ended up there.”

Trying to comfort the child, Beauparlant asked for her parents’ names and immediately recognized them. “I sent her mom a message on Facebook right away to say I had found her daughter and she was safe,” she said. “Her reaction was what you’d expect from any mother— she was shocked, confused, upset, and furious.”

The child, Amelia, attends CPE Picabou at 166 Front Street. The incident reportedly began around 10:55 am, when Amelia asked to go to the bathroom. After a few minutes, the educators began searching for her inside and outside the daycare and at a nearby park. “One staff member had seen her downstairs and thought she was heading to her cubby,” said Amelia’s father, Frank Pilon. “So she didn’t intervene.” He added that the door reportedly wasn’t locked properly, allowing Amelia to exit.

The daycare did not call the parents during the incident. Amelia’s mother contacted the daycare only after receiving Beauparlant’s message.

According to the daycare’s official incident report, the child was gone for about 10 minutes. “We don’t believe that.” said Mr. Pilon. “Given the distance she walked, we think it was more like 25 to 30 minutes.”

Mr. Pilon and his wife filed a complaint with the Ministry of Families, responsible for the oversight of CPEs. The complaint is still under review. They also met with the ­day-care’s director and assistant director. “They admitted there had been a lack of vigilance on the part of the staff,” said Pilon. “We told them it was unacceptable that we didn’t receive a call from them—or the police.”

The daycare director reportedly told the parents that there was no specific protocol in place for a missing child. According to the Ministry, while written protocols are not mandatory, safety is a legal requirement.

“The Act and Regulation respecting educational childcare services establish various safety obligations,” said Ministry spokesperson Pascal Doyon.

“Childcare providers are legally required to take all necessary measures to ensure the health, safety and well-being of children. This is an obligation of results. Each facility may choose the methods it considers appropriate, and the Ministry offers guides and tools to help them meet these obligations.”

“In this specific case,” he added, “an inspection was conducted on site on June 5 following the complaint. Once the findings have been analyzed, the Ministry will determine the next steps and appropriate measures to ensure proper follow-up with the daycare. When necessary, the Ministry does not hesitate to take administrative action—including revoking a licence—or to recommend criminal penalties.”

As of now, Amelia still attends the daycare. “We don’t have a choice because we both work,” Mr. Pilon said. “But my wife is still shaken by what happened.”

CPE Picabou did not respond to requests for comment by press time.

Mélissa Gélinas
Local Journalism Initiative

OUTAOUAIS – On May 27, Santé Québec released the new budget for Quebec’s 30 hospital centres. Budget cuts, now set at $925 million, will be distributed based on average operating costs across the province.

Facilities with higher costs, such as Sainte-Justine University Hospital Centre in Montreal, the CIUSSS de la Capitale-Nationale and the CISSS de la Montérégie-Centre, will bear the brunt of the reductions.

The CISSS de l’Outaouais is among the less-affected regions, with its required savings reduced to $45 million, down from the $91 million it had previously been asked to cut. Still, the region’s health centres will face ongoing challenges.

Jean Pigeon, spokesperson for SOS Outaouais, warned that remote areas like Pontiac will feel the impact more acutely. “These cuts make it even harder to attract and retain staff, to maintain local care, and to ensure stable services for the population,” he said.

According to Pigeon, Outaouais is not treated the same as other Quebec regions. “To optimize without compromising care, we need to review some administrative processes and have specific tools to address the unique realities of our border region,” he added.

Currently, the areas most affected by budget cuts are logistics, maintenance and administration. “We’re concerned other services could be impacted if the budget pressure stays the same,” Pigeon said.

The CISSSO has said that staffing levels and the organization’s structure will remain unchanged, noting that previous measures had already addressed the last financial period’s $60 million target.

According to Camille Brochu-Lafrance, communications advisor with CISSSO, concrete steps are being taken—especially in Pontiac—to address the region’s situation. These include strengthening local partnerships for recruitment, supporting housing access for personnel, and boosting regional promotion. “We’re also focused on tailoring working conditions to local realities and improving team stability,” she said. “Maintaining quality care and services for the Pontiac population remains at the heart of our efforts.”

Brochu-Lafrance added that the key to achieving the $45 million in savings will be through better financial resource management. “Budget management is critical, and we are in ongoing discussions with Santé Québec as part of our optimization efforts,” she said.

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

During the fourth edition of the BRAVO Celebration for a First Degree in Canada, nine immigrant students received scholarships worth between $1,000 and $2,000 on May 25 at the Maison du Citoyen in Gatineau. About a hundred people were present for the occasion, including the guest of honour, the Honourable Julie Miville-Dechêne, Independent Senator from Quebec.

The BRAVO Scholarship Fund in Outaouais serves primarily to recognize the efforts of Gatineau students in learning French and obtaining a diploma recognized by the Quebec government. “This is the only scholarship program in Quebec dedicated to young allophone refugees and newcomers,” said Jacques Laberge, retired diplomat, founder and spokesperson for the BRAVO Scholarship Fund in Outaouais. According to Laberge, since 2021, this program has helped more than 42 allophone students from 15 different countries. In addition, over $50,000 has been raised for this purpose. “With the slogan Integration through Education, the BRAVO Scholarship Fund in Outaouais is a tangible demonstration of the solidarity of dedicated and committed volunteers who contribute to the better integration of newcomers in Gatineau,” he says.

The nine recipients were: Hadia Jabarkhil from Afghanistan, Maria Paula Montoya and Valentina Villamil from Colombia, Maja Cica from Croatia, Mohammad Hossein Bokaei Jaci from Iran, Basant Gheth from Egypt, Karine Acadia Irankunda from Mozambique, Ghazal AlHalabi from Syria, and Sandra Rincon Flores from Venezuela.

According to Senator Miville-Dechêne, it was an emotional event. “Hearing each recipient tell their story, their progress, their challenges, and their dreams in French was very touching,” she said. “Each story was remarkable, like that of Basant Gheth, a mother of four who began university studies.”

“I think this event illustrates that a community like Gatineau can contribute to the integration of immigrants and refugees […],” said the Senator. “The initiative of retired diplomat Jacques Laberge and a whole group of volunteers is remarkable. For four years, they have been awarding scholarships, encouraging these young people, and making them feel welcome.”

Photo: Seven of the nine recipients with Senator Miville-Dechêne. From left to right: Sandra Rincon Flores, Valentina Villamil, Maja Cica, Senator Miville-Dechêne, Karine Acadia Irankunda, Maria Paula Montoya, Ghazal AlHalabi, Hadia Jabarkhil, at the scholarship ceremony (May 25, 2025). (MG) Photo: Courtesy of Jacques Laberge

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

More than 32 medals were awarded to Team Quebec at the 29th annual edition of the Skills Canada National Competition in Regina, Saskatchewan, which took place from May 29 to 30. More specifically, 32 medals were awarded among 47 Quebec competitors. In addition, three students from the Skills Outaouais and Innovation Outaouais Vocational Training Centre (CFP) were among the medalists:

• Angel Brouillette – Skills Outaouais – Bureaucratic Software Applications (gold)
• Lauriane Parisien – Skills Outaouais – Graphic Arts (gold)
• Mathis Rozon – Innovation Outaouais – Industrial Mechanics (silver)

Organized by Skills Canada, the Canadian Skills Competition is the only national competition for students and apprentices across the country. A total of more than 40 trades were represented by 500 young Canadians.

At the occasion, students were selected to join Team Canada to participate in the 2026 WorldSkills Competition that will take place in Shanghai, China. This is the largest international skills competition where young people from more than 80 countries come together to compete with each other. The following eight Quebec students were chosen for Team Canada.

• Samuel Bolduc – Cégep de Sherbrooke – Industrial Design – Estrie
• Félix Lafrance – CF Harricana – Turning (Computer Numerical Control) – Abitibi-Témiscamingue
• Maximilian De-Belle-Holowka – CFP Access – Masonry – Montérégie
• Misha Marien – Faubourgs-de-Montréal School of Trades – Hairdressing – Île-de-Montréal
• Marianne Masson – École hôtelière des Laurentides – Pastry – Laval/Laurentides/Lanaudière
• Logan Poisson and Charlie Véronneau – CFP de Coaticook – Landscaping – Estrie
• Xavier Bélanger – CFP de Lachine – Refrigeration and Air Conditioning – Île-de-Montréal

“Being chosen to represent Canada in Shanghai is much more than a personal honour,” the press release states. “It’s about being the voice of a training system that stands out and helping to change the perception of skilled trades in Quebec.”

Photo: From left to right: Rylie Green (bronze), Tyler Gunther (gold), and Mathis Rozon (silver). Medalists in Industrial Mechanics (May 31, 2025) (MG) Photo: Courtesy of Skills Canada

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

The safety of Highway 50 has been an issue for years, one that continues to raise numerous discussions and election promises. Recently, the project to widen the section between Ange-Gardien and Lachute to four lanes, which had been scheduled for this year, was reportedly put on hold due to financial issues.

Mathieu Lacombe, MNA for Papineau, had promised to complete the expansion of the entire Highway 50 by 2032. According to Paul-André David, the mayor and prefect of the MRC of Papineau, the work is likely to take several years, ending even as late as 2036. This delay in the schedule is far from unanimous. “It’s definitely a disappointment,” said Gatineau Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette. “Having one lane in each direction creates accidents and a sense of insecurity. Obviously, we understand that investments and public finances at the provincial government are difficult, but nonetheless, this is an important and symbolic project for the Outaouais region.”

According to the Minister of Transport and Sustainable Mobility, Geneviève Guilbault, there was never any question of widening all sections simultaneously. In this sense, the highway, divided into seven segments, will have to be widened based on the danger level of the areas. “Currently, it’s section 7 that’s under construction, the one between Mirabel and Lachute,” she said. “Although it’s not directly in Gatineau, it’s still excellent news.” According to Ms. Guilbaut, short-term safety measures will be installed for sections 2 to 6 using crash barriers, photo radar, and a police presence. “Our plan is to secure Highway 50,” she said. “It’s important for people to know that things are moving forward.”

It should be noted that the widening of Section 1 between Gatineau and Ange-Gardien was completed on August 22, 2024, after more than two years of work.

The mayor stated that she will continue to raise awareness within the Quebec government and work with MNAs to ensure the voices of Gatineau residents are heard.

Photo: Maude Marquis-Bissonnette, Mayor of Gatineau, during a press scrum, answering media questions about the situation on Highway 50 (June 4, 2025). (MG) Photo: Screenshot

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

The Municipal Council meeting on June 10^th took place in the auditorium of the Nicolas-Gatineau Polyvalente High School, where underfunding of cultural activities and the fire department were discussed.

Cultural Portrait in Gatineau

Isabelle N. Miron, Councillor for the Orée-du-Parc district, presented the new version of the Support Program for Organizations at the Municipal Council meeting. “I agree that it would be important to invest more to support the City’s cultural organizations,” she said. “By continuing to support our organizations’ initiatives, we can offer several free activities in Gatineau […].”

Although the program meets the organizations’ expectations, the allocated budget remains a concern. “We believe the City of Gatineau has a lot of financial catching up to do in terms of culture,” explained Julie Martineau, Executive Director of Culture Outaouais. “We hope the envelope can reach $3 million for the next 2026 budget, in order to meet the targets of Quebec City and Ottawa.”

According to Martineau, Gatineau’s cultural landscape raises several issues, including a lack of infrastructure, creativity, production, access to financing, burnout, and a scarcity of resources.

“These investments will have to be carefully considered, because the economic benefits are indeed very significant in the cultural sector and must be better,” said Edmond Leclerc, councillor for the Buckingham district.

Gatineau Fire Department

Nearly 100 firefighters were present at the city council meeting to testify and address health and safety issues related to the lack of funding.

Since last February, Nicolas Houle, Vice-President of the Gatineau Firefighters Association, has been sharing information with city council and several levels of management about numerous issues facing the Gatineau Fire Department. “I’ve informed you of the extent of the ongoing problems,” said Houle. “Our fire stations, fleets, pumpers, and aerial ladders are in a deplorable state. Recently, there were no aerial ladders in service anywhere in Gatineau, including Buckingham and Aylmer.” According to Houle, the boats (fleets) have also been out of service for several years throughout the city.

Houle also admitted that the fire department does not have any EpiPens. “This means that in the event of anaphylactic shock, we will not be able to provide assistance,” he said. “Many of these issues directly affect service to citizens,” he continued.

In addition, according to the testimony of Olivier, a human resources employee for the Gatineau Firefighters Association, 15 retired firefighters have developed cancer related to the exercise of their duties. “A cancer committee was set up by the Fire Department management in partnership with our association, to find solutions to improve practices in terms of protection, decontamination, transportation of combat clothing and soiled equipment,” Olivier emphasized. “We were surprised to learn that management rejected all the measures proposed by its own executives in the joint committee, including those requiring no financial investment.” To date, no counterproposal has been received from the department’s management.

“[…] Police officers, firefighters, and paramedics are three departments that are non-negotiable [….] We must not negotiate salaries, but pay them,” said Denis Girouard, Councillor for the Lac-Beauchamp district. “I will certainly support your request.”

Photo: Gatineau Municipal Council during their meeting (June 10, 2025) (MG) Photo: Mélissa Gélinas