Mélissa Gélinas

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

Provigo Le Marché Charron Aylmer held a barbecue with the Outaouais Mustang Club on June 7, to raise funds for two local organizations.

“We decided to create an activity where we give back to the community, with a barbecue and games for the children,” said Éric Charron, owner of Provigo Le Marché Charron Aylmer. $1,240 was raised and will be donated to the Aylmer Food Centre and the Deschênes Community Group.

A 50/50 draw was held for the occasion, with the winner (Amélie) receiving $365.

This was the first time this event was held. “We will likely repeat the activity throughout the year to help the community,” said Charron.

Photo: From left to right: Denis Parizeau, General Manager of the Aylmer Food Centre; Pierre Carrière, Vice-President of the Outaouais Mustang Club; Eric Charron, owner of Provigo Le Marché Charron Aylmer; Ibrahim Diallo, Coordinator of the Deschênes Community Group; and Sylvain Deshaies, member of the Outaouais Mustang Club, with the $1,240 cheque, in front of Provigo Le Marché Charron Aylmer (June 12, 2025). (MG) Photo: Mélissa Gélinas

MÉLISSA GÉLINAS
LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

QUEBEC – Quebec Education Minister Bernard Drainville announced on May 1 that cellphones will be banned in all elementary and secondary schools across the province starting in September. Schools in the Pontiac will also need to adapt and implement the necessary measures.

According to Drainville, the goal is to promote respect and civility in schools and to provide students with a safe, healthy environment. The new policy complements the Violence and Bullying Prevention Plan introduced in October 2023.

This latest measure builds on an earlier regulation that took effect January 1, 2024, which banned cellphones during class time, with exceptions for health needs, disabilities, or educational use. The upcoming change will expand the ban to cover the entire school day, including breaks and all areas on school property.

“The concept isn’t new to schools in the Pontiac,” said George Singfield, Director General of the Western Québec School Board. “Many of our schools had already implemented cellphone bans in classrooms as of last December.” He believes the new regulation may help students facing bullying.

So far, however, no official directive has been received. “We need more information,” Singfield noted. “Right now, all we’ve seen is media coverage, and we still have many unanswered questions. There should be a transition period.”

One major challenge, he added, will be enforcing the ban across the entire school property. “Some students will go outside and access their phones,” he explained. Dialogue with parents will be important to ensure they understand the purpose of the regulation.

Despite the hurdles, the response from school leaders has been positive. “Some students even said it’s a good idea because it will give them a break,” he added.

Singfield expressed pride in the way school principals have taken the news. “We’ll do our best—even if it’s difficult—to teach students the benefits of this regulation.”

Pontiac High School and Dr. Wilbert Keon School did not respond to the Journal’s request for comment by press time. École secondaire Sieur-de-Coulonge declined to comment on the matter.

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

An evening panel and consultation took place as part of the Mental Health Services in the Outaouais event on Tuesday, May 13, at the Maison du Citoyen.

Organized by ReprésentACTION Outaouais, Droits-Accès de l’Outaouais, Action Santé Outaouais, and the partners of Ensemble pour le droit à la santé, this event aimed to foster exchanges and discussions on the issues and challenges of mental health services in the Outaouais, while also providing concrete action.

To this end, panelist Pierre Pariseau-Legault, researcher and professor at the Université du Québec en Outaouais in the Laurentians, provided an update on the situation. According to him, delays in accessing services are undoubtedly one of the biggest problems. “Added to this is the staff shortage,” he explained. “Many people leave, saying they don’t feel they’re helping people since they end up on prescriptions under medical authority.” According to him, many decide to pursue other careers or move to the private sector.

“When we look at intervention models in Quebec, we realize that it’s a biomedical model that’s very prescription-oriented,” Pariseau-Legault stated. “I’m not saying that prescribing is useless, but instead, the idea is to promote an intervention model to properly meet the needs of the people who consult us.”

Furthermore, one of the biggest stereotypes is the belief that intervention by an expert is required. “More than 90% of mental health problems can be treated on the front line,” said Pariseau-Legault. “It depends on the model you adopt, but for me, mental health is very different from psychiatry. It’s a question of creativity and human relationships. It needs room for alternative practices and for testimonials.”

To conclude the evening, testimonials and discussion workshops took place.

Photo: Rebecca Labelle, coordinator at Droit-Accès Outaouais, with Pierre Pariseau-Legault, researcher and professor at the Université du Québec en Outaouais in the Laurentians, at the panel and consultation of the Mental Health Services in Outaouais event (May 13, 2025) (MG) Photo: Mélissa Gélinas

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

Following the 2019 floods, the Touraine sector of Gatineau has several vacant lots that need to be redeveloped. To this end, a public consultation was organized to engage in discussions and exchange ideas through workshops.

For the occasion, Touraine Borough Councillor Tiffany-Lee Norris Parent, Assistant Territorial Director for Gatineau, Buckingham and Masson-Angers Magdalena Dudek, several officials, organization representatives, and residents were present at the Saint-Jean-de-Brébeuf Community Centre in Gatineau on May 20.

“As you know, there are nearly 200 vacant lots within the City of Gatineau that were transferred following the 2019 floods,” said Ms. Dudek. “We created a master plan and an action plan, but we haven’t had the opportunity to organize a gathering of Touraine residents to discuss this topic.”

The workshops were divided into two parts. The first consisted of choosing the themes, and the second was to prioritize each one. Everyone gathered around a table to exchange ideas.

For the vast majority, one of the most important elements concerned lawn maintenance on the grounds. “We all agree that the grass was way too long and never maintained,” explained a Touraine resident. This, as a result, attracts many animals such as marmots, raccoons, and deer. To address the situation, mixed seeds of clover and other ground covers were proposed. To do this, the lawn will have to be removed to add soil to accommodate the new seed, which will require no maintenance.

A second element was the addition of trees. “We don’t need a structure for relaxation or play,” said another resident. “There’s already a park that’s practically unoccupied, so I doubt people would use this kind of development, which, in my opinion, is an unnecessary expense. What we want is nature.”

All in all, the request was specifically to naturalize the land. “What we’re going to do, first of all, is assess everything and see how many trees we’ll need and which species to prioritize,” explained Noris Parent. “We’ll then have to estimate the overall work and study the land. This will allow us to estimate the total budget and see how to secure the necessary funding to complete this project.” A second meeting has been proposed to take place in six months to take stock of the situation.

Photo: Tiffany-Lee Norris Parent, municipal councillor for the Touraine Borough, accompanied by officials, organization representatives, and residents at the workshop on the redevelopment of vacant lots in Touraine (May 20, 2025). (MG) Photo: Mélissa Gélinas

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

Due to the lack of capacity for drinking water and wastewater management infrastructure, more than 8,000 housing units cannot be built in the Outaouais region.

According to Nicolas Brisson, Executive Director of the Association des professionnels de la construction et de l’habitation du Québec en Outaouais, the City of Gatineau is clearly negligent in updating its infrastructure.

“Population growth had already been planned for in the city through a development plan,” said Brisson. “In 2010, a committee report estimated the funding needed to catch up on infrastructure at more than $1 billion, which led, in 2012, to the introduction of a 1% tax to subsidize several projects such as roads, transportation, etc. But where did that money go?”

Of course, the city must still seek support from other levels of government, but the development levy, which is one of the solutions proposed by the Mayor of Gatineau, is, according to Brisson, unacceptable. “It’s also unacceptable for the federal government, which imposes this tax as a condition.”

“For 10 years, the City of Gatineau had the highest average tax burden of the 10 largest cities in Quebec,” he emphasized.

Furthermore, according to Brisson’s information, the city produced a document in 2013 estimating the need to reinvest $167 million in water treatment plants. As for wastewater management, the figure is over $563 million, including $308 million for overflow elimination. “The city was already well aware of the problem and knew it would require investments,” he commented. “Furthermore, the city had already planned for population growth in its territory by increasing its density.”

“I know that the City’s savings account for budgeted infrastructure has gone from $84 million to $479 million,” explained Brisson. “These are funds that still haven’t been used. I wonder if Gatineau is really making the right choices for the right priorities. Given the housing crisis, this should have been done at least 10 years ago. Drinking water management and wastewater treatment are essential because they are a public health issue.”

Photo: Nicolas Brisson, Executive Director of the Association of Construction and Housing Professionals of Quebec in Outaouais (May 5, 2025) (MG) Photo: APCHQ Outaouais Facebook Page

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

The price increases linked to U.S. tariffs are already being felt in several grocery stores and pharmacies, including Walmart, Loblaws, Provigo, Maxi, and Pharmaprix.

According to Nathalie Normandeau, a former politician and host of the 104.7 radio show La commission, Loblaws-owned Provigo and Maxi grocery stores have already begun putting “T” symbols on more than 1,000 products, indicating a price increase caused by the tariffs.

Furthermore, according to Normandeau, within two months, a total of 6,000 products will be displaying this symbol in these grocery stores. “Fruits and vegetables will be the first to be affected,” she emphasized.

Affected products:

• Dairy products

• Meat

• Coffee and tea

• Cereals

• Spices

• Pasta

• Oil

• Soft drinks

• Sweets

• Natural, hygiene, and beauty products

• And more

“Although there are alternatives, they could cost more due to the tariff response,” said Normandeau. Canadian products containing ingredients from the United States may also see their costs increase.

“It’s quite rare to find a product that’s 100% made in Canada,” said Sylvain Charlebois, Senior Director of the Agri-Food Analytical Sciences Laboratory at Dalhousie University. “It’s important to know that the price increase won’t be 25%, but rather 3% to 5%,” he adds.

As for Walmart, the company is trying to find solutions to continue offering the lowest possible prices. “Since the pandemic, according to the first quarter results, people with higher incomes are shopping more at Walmart, particularly for groceries,” said Normandeau. “There’s a lot of concern among consumers.”

According to information from Maurice Doyon, professor of agri-food economics and consumer sciences at Université Laval, boycotting American stores such as Walmart and Costco is not recommended, as they still sell some Canadian products. In this sense, it’s American products that should be avoided, not the stores.

Photo: Maxi grocery store located on Maloney Boulevard East in Gatineau (May 16, 2025) (MG) Photo: Mélissa Gélinas

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

Nathan Farrell, a 26-year-old man from Aylmer, is still missing. According to information from the Gatineau Police Service (SPVG), he was last seen around noon on May 9, leaving his residence on Symmes Street, and he may be in Ottawa.

He was wearing dark/black jeans and a white bicycle helmet. He was reportedly riding a Louis Garneau bicycle.

Nathan is a white man, approximately 1.70 m (5’7″) tall and weighs about 73 kg (161 lbs). He has brown hair, blue/grey eyes, and a brown mustache.

The SPVG and his family have reasons to fear for his safety. No additional information could be shared out of respect for his loved ones. The investigation is ongoing.

For any relevant information on Nathan Farrell’s case, the SPVG invites the public to contact them at 819-246-0222.

Regarding the case of Jonathan Étienne Kaldjob, a 38-year-old Black man from Gatineau, the SPVG confirms that he has been found safe and sound. “This case is now closed and the publication has been removed,” said Patrick Kenney, SPVG Public Relations Officer.

Photo: Nathan Farrell (May 21, 2025) (MG) Photo: Courtesy of Gatineau Police

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

The Lièvre Food Bank, located in Buckingham, is a non-profit organization whose mission is to ensure food security for all. It offers several services, including emergency food assistance, a collective and community kitchen, a community table, a community garden, and more.

In recent years, the food bank has continued to welcome record numbers of people. “We receive over 1,000 people per month who come solely for emergency food assistance services (basic food boxes),” said Anne Mercier, Executive Director of the Lièvre Food Bank.

Between January and March 2025, a total of 1,806 meals were served at the community table to a total of 1,685 people, according to the statistics collected. In addition, over 42% of the clientele is made up of young children. Statistics for the 2024-2025 fiscal year show that more than 5,354 children used the food bank’s services, a situation considered worrisome, according to Mercier.

In addition to this reality, the organization is struggling to provide. “One of our biggest problems is the lack of government funding,” Mercier emphasized. “We currently receive more money from citizens in the form of donations, so there’s a huge imbalance. People here work extremely hard to serve everyone.”

To help with the situation, $38,000 was donated by Buckingham City Councillor Edmond Leclerc. This allowed for the renovation and refurbishment of the community kitchen. “Mr. Leclerc is very committed to his community,” commented Mercier. Furthermore, the opening of the new store, Saveur et Bonheur, will also contribute to generating additional profits for the organization. Healthy and balanced meals at low prices will be sold to the public. “We will also sell kitchen accessories made by local artisans,” explained Mercier. “The goal is to exchange services. We are very proud of our project, despite all the preparation it requires.”

Photo: Community kitchen at the Lièvre Food Bank (May 15, 2025) (MG) Photo: Mélissa Gélinas

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

For several years, the Buckingham and Masson-Angers arenas have needed renovations and new equipment. According to Daniel St-Gelais, president of the Gatineau Lièvre Minor Hockey Association, the city is having a hard time keeping its infrastructure up to date.

“They’re always waiting for something to break before replacing it, but the reality is that our facilities need to be modernized,” explained Daniel. “We don’t have to have futuristic arenas, but we need a bare minimum of renovations to make it a pleasant experience for everyone.”

According to Daniel, the Buckingham arena’s decor has remained unchanged since 1971 and is in dire need of a refresh. The ceiling also needs to be repaired, and equipment such as the scoreboard and safety net need to be replaced. “We inherited the old scoreboard from the old Robert-Guertin arena, and the entire display system is backward, making it extremely difficult for officials to manage everything.”

As for the Masson-Angers arena, it would have issues with the volunteer room, which, according to Daniel, is completely outdated. “We use this room a lot,” he explained. “Last year, the refrigerator pipe broke, and instead of repairing it, it was locked.”

“Furthermore, when visitors come, we often receive comments saying they would have preferred the tournament to be held in facilities like Slush Puppie or Branchaud-Brière.” Daniel estimates that the city will have to spend between $60,000 and $70,000 to get the two arenas operational. “In my opinion, that’s not much for the City of Gatineau, when we’re talking about maintaining their infrastructure, which should have been done a long time ago.”

Daniel said that he hasn’t received an official response from the city. He did, however, manage to meet with Mathieu Lacombe, Member of the National Assembly for Papineau. “I was very well received, and according to him, my requests are very legitimate […],” he emphasized. “I will also be having a meeting with Buckingham City Councillor Edmond Leclerc, as well as a second meeting next week with Masson-Angers City Councillor Mario Aubé.”

Photo: Daniel St-Gelais, president of the Gatineau La Lièvre Minor Hockey Association, during his meeting with Mathieu Lacombe, Member of the National Assembly for Papineau (May 5, 2025) (MG) Photo: Facebook page: Mathieu Lacombe, Member of the National Assembly for Papineau

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

Bill 72 will now require all restaurants and businesses in Quebec to display the proposed tips before taxes are applied on all terminals, starting May 7, 2025.

This measure will be specifically included in a new bill entitled: An Act to protect consumers against abusive commercial practices and provide greater transparency in pricing and credit. It was unanimously adopted by the National Assembly.

Furthermore, terminals will no longer provide customers with any incentives regarding the recommended tip rate. “In this sense, higher percentages will no longer be highlighted, nor will smiley or sad face emoticons be displayed for tips deemed good or not so good,” explained Charles Tanguay, spokesperson for the Office of Consumer Protection. This way, it will be up to the consumer to choose the tip amount they wish to pay.

According to Martin Vézina, Vice-President of Public and Government Affairs for the Association Restauration Québec, the reason why consumers previously paid tips after taxes is simply due to the terminal programming.

However, according to Martin, not all terminals are easy to reprogram. “For the majority of them, this required computer changes that were made in recent months, and there are still operators who will have to wait for new devices to comply with the new law,” he explained. “Some will also have to manually calculate their tips since their terminal won’t have the option to calculate them.”

Therefore, this new law risks reducing workers’ income. “We want to assess whether this will have an impact on some employees’ resignations,” Martin commented.

Photo: Card inserted into a terminal (May 9, 2025) (MG) Photo: Pixabay.com

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

Minister of Education Bernard Drainville recently announced a ban on cell phone use in classrooms, outside, and on school grounds, starting next September. This regulation will apply to all Quebec schools, including public and private elementary and secondary schools.

For Drainville, this measure is intended to maximize civic mindedness among young people and reduce the rate of bullying.

Far from gaining unanimous support among young people, a student posted a video that went viral on TikTok, calling on Quebec students to go on strike on Friday, May 9. “Young people, we’re going on strike!” says Youry Roy. “Starting next year, the Quebec government will require us to call our teachers, ladies and gentlemen, and make cell phones illegal in schools,” he continued. “I don’t know what you think, but I find it stupid. Mr. and Madam Government, we have much more serious problems than phones in schools.”

Furthermore, several students in some Outaouais schools have expressed their dissatisfaction with the new regulation. Indeed, most students at the Érablière comprehensive school in Gatineau supported the strike. “I think that, in an emergency, it can still be very useful, and I don’t think banning it would be the best choice,” said a student at the school.

The Draveurs school service centre, for its part, confirmed that it had been informed of the TikTok video. “We hope that students will use the appropriate channels to express their opinions and would like to emphasize the importance of attending classes at the end of the school year,” stated the Draveurs School Service Centre.

Minister Drainville clarified that there will be certain exceptions for cell phone use, particularly for students with special needs.

Photo: Poster of the strike against the cell phone ban in schools (May 7, 2025) (MG) Photo: Michel Beaudin-Chandonnet Facebook Page

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

Many Gatineau firefighters have to deal with several outdated facilities and equipment that put their well-being and safety at risk. After several requests to the city, the president of the Gatineau firefighters’ union, Stéphane Noël, decided to refer the matter to an arbitration tribunal.

It took more than seven years before the fire station located on Gréber Boulevard received plumbing work. “In 2015, several emails were sent to the employer to indicate that the plumbing in the men’s showers on the second floor was leaking,” explained Stéphane Noël. Due to the accumulation of water, mold formed. As a result, the entire shower area had to be redone.

Furthermore, the air conditioning system at the Saint-Rédempteur fire station was out of service for two summers. “The problem has been resolved on the administrative side, but not on the operations side, where the firefighters spend most of their time,” Stéphane explained. “When they return from their operations, they wear their combat gear, which must be as warm as a suit worn on the moon. The fire station is the only place where they can cool down during the summer, but without air conditioning, the temperature can reach 30 degrees on the second floor. I also learned this week that the request was denied.”

At the fire station on the Plateau, it’s the roof that needs work. “With the recent storms, water started leaking again from the roof to where the gym is located,” he pointed out. “The problem has been persisting for a year.” Moreover, the hose drying towers at all five Gatineau fire stations have been condemned due to non-compliance. As a result, to dry the hoses, firefighters must store them on the garage floor. “Honestly, I’ve visited fire stations in the Dominican Republic, and they’re very similar to the ones we have here,” said Stéphane. “Municipal management is extremely difficult in Gatineau, and there’s no preventive work.”

Other issues include defective garage doors at several fire stations, non-compliant kitchen hoods, end-of-life ladders, and more. “In our vehicle fleet, we have auto pumpers that will soon be 20 years old and are no longer efficient,” Stéphane noted. “In the next 60 days, we will discuss with the city and outline for the employer the corrective measures that will need to be taken to address all the issues in the fire stations. After 60 days, the City of Gatineau will therefore have to provide a timeline for the upcoming work.

Photo: Firefighters extinguishing a fire (May 6, 2025) (MG) Photo: Pixabay.com

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

During the April 30 press briefing, Buckingham District Councillor Edmond Leclerc announced that he would be seeking a second term on Gatineau City Council.

“Last night, during my meeting with residents, I was asked the question, and I was ready to announce my decision: I would run as an independent candidate for Buckingham in the next election, after careful consideration,” explained Leclerc. “I won’t hide from you that the announcement of my colleague Steven Boivin’s departure forced me to reflect a little on my political future,” he added.

One of his primary motivations stems from the support and trust of Buckingham residents. “I’m especially passionate about completing other projects, particularly those related to the revitalization of the area,” he said.

Leclerc is also proud of the return of the music festival and the arrival of several businesses. “We’re working on a commercial development policy that represents extraordinary levers for our city,” he commented.

As for the borough council project that was previously launched with his colleague Steven Boivin, city councillor for the Aylmer district, it will not be possible to realize it. “I won’t lie to you that I couldn’t carry out a major project if I’m no longer part of a team […],” he emphasized. “The goal was to create a political party to carry out a vision for the city. That would have greatly decentralized our administration, but especially decision-making, bringing it closer to the sectors so that Aylmer could decide for Aylmer and Buckingham could decide for Buckingham.” Although this coalition could not be completed, Edmond Leclerc asserted that he remains a defender of the sectors. “It sparked a lot of discussion and reflection,” he said. “However, it takes a lot of people to create a political party. I respect Mr. Boivin’s decision; I understand it, but it definitely puts an end to this project.”

Edmond Leclerc, Buckingham District Councillor, during the announcement of his second term during the press scrum (April 30, 2025) (MG) Photo: Screenshot

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

During the spring flood update presented at the April 28 press briefing, water levels were revised downward, despite the number of homes affected.

According to data from the Ottawa River Regulation Planning Commission, the water will rise slower than expected. As a result, the anticipated number of affected buildings has also decreased. However, Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette notes that caution must be exercised regarding the changing weather situation. “We’ll have to monitor the low-pressure system and the rain that will arrive in the coming days,” she said.

“The floods have arrived earlier this year,” explained the mayor. “The first took place roughly around March, and we’re currently in the second, which usually arrives around May.”

More than 60,000 sandbags will be available for residents. “The bags will be placed at a municipal storage site on Pink Road, which will be open from 8 am to 5 pm,” the mayor explained.

As of April 29, several firefighter visits took place at properties in the Gatineau and Masson-Angers sectors. According to Maude Marquis-Bissonnette, the water level in the Aylmer sector would likely peak on Thursday and Friday, May 1 and 2. As for the eastern sector of the city, the water level was expected to be reached by Saturday, May 3. “Although the situation fluctuates, we are still following the same scenarios we presented earlier this week,” she said.

The most affected areas include Fraser Road and Lamoureux Street in Aylmer, Chemin du Fer-à-cheval, Jacques-Cartier Street, and Hurtubise Boulevard in Gatineau. Among these areas, approximately ten homes are affected. “Door-to-door visits to the people concerned are being planned,” the mayor said.

Currently, no streets have been flooded. “We are not in scenarios like we were in 2017, 2019, and 2020,” she emphasized. “This is a situation we are monitoring hourly,” she added.

Forecasts indicate that water levels will reach a lower threshold than those of 2023.

Photo: Maude Marquis-Bissonnette, Mayor of Gatineau, during the press briefing (April 30, 2025) (MG) Photo: Screenshot

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

During the city council meeting at the Masson-Angers Service Centre on April 15, several citizen interventions drew attention to the parking tax and Rue des Laurentides.

Mixed opinions on the parking space tax

“A month ago, dozens and dozens of businesspeople came to the last council meeting at the Maison du Citoyen to ask us for some breathing room, following the imposition of a heavy tax on parking spaces,” said Mario Aubé, city councillor for the Masson-Angers district. “They were offered a 40% discount and, since then, it’s as if we’re hoping the situation will pass and that we won’t talk about it anymore.

For Dinty’s restaurant owner Jim Sourges, this represents an increase of more than 50%. “How will this tax change my customers’ behavior?” he wondered. Moreover, since the restaurant is in a heritage zone, it will be difficult, according to Jim, to change the zoning. “I find this situation contradictory,” he said.

Moreover, the situation doesn’t seem favourable for Mario Marengère, a real estate developer in Gatineau. “I recently received a tax bill for more than $52,000 in additional fees,” he pointed out. “My tenants are at risk of leaving, and I’ll be left with empty buildings […]. “It’s no longer fun to live in Gatineau!”

While some were opposed to this tax, other citizens were keen to show their support, as was the case with Céline Lopez, a member of the Outaouais group Mères au Front. “For us, taxing parking spaces is one measure among others to move us away from car use and toward a more sustainable lifestyle,” she commented.

“We sometimes hear that the tax is waging war on cars, but let’s be clear, the real war is the one waged every day by those who want to walk, cycle, or take the bus without fearing for their safety or their lives,” says Patrick Meunier, Director General of MOBIO.

Rue des Laurentides: Far from Delighting Residents

Regarding the situation on Rue des Laurentides, discontent was felt by several residents of the Masson-Angers area who were present at the city council meeting.

Despite nearly 90 requests to 311, the situation remained unchanged. “It’s one of the worst-rated streets in the east end of the city […],” explained Mario Aubé. “Unfortunately, in recent weeks, I learned that the project has been relegated to the implementation plan and will be pushed back to 2027.”

“What I just learned tonight was like a slap in the face!” said Robert Guérin, a resident of Masson-Angers. “People weren’t even aware of the situation; we only just found out. For you to say that the situation will continue its course is inconceivable. People have been waiting for several years.”

“We’ve had a street full of craters for over four years,” explained Marcel, a resident of Masson-Angers. “The situation has worsened since the construction of the seniors’ centre.”

Photo: Overview of the city council meeting (April 15, 2025) (MG) Photo: Mélissa Gélinas

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

After eight years of effort, the Chambord project, comprising more than 1,500 housing units located north of Highway 50 near Labrosse Boulevard, which would have generated $8 million in property tax revenue annually, will not see the light of day.

“The goal was to offer a complete and friendly neighbourhood with a daycare, a school, businesses, and bike paths nearby,” explained Claude Montreuil, the project’s real estate developer.

Furthermore, Montreuil offered to provide land free of charge for the construction of a new elementary school, in addition to assuming all infrastructure costs and the costs incurred for the water backup on the site.

“In August 2020, the School Service Centre announced that it had received $28 million in funding for the school,” said the developer. “At that point, I thought my project would have been confirmed. I was even willing to donate over 90 acres of land to integrate a new forest. All of this was conditional on the City of Gatineau giving me a helping hand.”

During those eight years, Claude Montreuil had to pay $1.8 million in economic, geotechnical, environmental, and other studies required by the city. “I attended over 49 meetings with the administration and over 150 meetings with the professionals I had hired,” he said.

“In June, I submitted a health and safety report, but I had to wait nine months for a response from a city employee who told me he had forgotten to mention that a second project near mine had increased from 200 to 900 homes,” said Montreuil. “At that point, he told me I had to start my study all over again.”

After eight years, the City of Gatineau still doesn’t know if it’s in a moratorium on real estate development. “Imagine my frustration,” said Montreuil. “Thousands of hours and millions of dollars have been invested, and we’re still in limbo. There are many entrepreneurs who feel the same way I do.”

No longer having the patience to discuss matters with the city, the developer decided to put the land up for sale.

According to Gatineau Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette, this is an extremely complex project because it’s located in an expansion zone. “This wasn’t an area that was originally intended for development,” she emphasizes. “The latest news I received is that Quebec has requested additional information from the developer to ensure the land has had the necessary work to accommodate the elementary school. At this time, we are still waiting to hear from the developer, and I can assure you that we remain committed to this project.”

The mayor also noted that meetings have taken place with Claude Montreuil and the School Service Centre. “The process is underway, but it remains a complex project,” she stated.

Photo: Maude Marquis-Bissonnette, Mayor of Gatineau, answers journalists’ questions during the press scrum (April 9, 2025). (MG) Photo: Screenshot

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

The Gatineau Chamber of Commerce (GCC) announced a major mobilization campaign to denounce the parking tax imposed by the city. To this end, the GCC invited merchants and the business community to gather at La Shop bike centre located at 139 Boulevard de l’Hôpital in Gatineau on Monday, April 14.

“As President of the GCC, I want to emphasize the crucial importance of this moment,” said Iseline Gandaho. “Today, we have a duty to defend our merchants, our local economy, and our citizens.”

According to Gandaho, the parking tax raises legitimate concerns. Its impact goes far beyond parking. “Our entire local economy is threatened,” she explained. “We fully understand the environmental intentions, but this measure was implemented too quickly at the expense of all our businesses and citizens. The city decided to adopt this tax for environmental reasons, but it was implemented without a rigorous analysis and without a gradual transition.”

“If we are here today, it’s because we are facing a situation that affects far more than local businesses,” emphasized Etienne Fredette, General Manager of the GCC. According to him, this tax will also affect citizens who will have to pay more for their products.

Neighbourhood services will also be reduced by the lower number of opening hours. Ultimately, it’s the businesses, jobs, and services that risk disappearing. Furthermore, student jobs will have to be reduced, particularly during the summer.

“What we’re presenting today is a complete moratorium on the parking tax,” he explained. “We invite you to visit the Gatineau Chamber of Commerce website where you can find a citizen petition to sign,” he added. Signs denouncing the tax have also been made available to businesspeople.

The situation is of great concern to businesses, as is the case with Louis Mounir, owner of the restaurant La Creppa in Gatineau. Since he can’t find other solutions, he will have to reduce his employees’ hours. “It pains me to see my employees, who have worked alongside me for a long time, having to leave […],” he commented.

Photo: Etienne Fredette, Executive Director of the GCC, at the press conference for the mobilization campaign against the parking tax (April 14, 2025) (MG) Photo: Gatineau Chamber of Commerce Facebook page

Mélissa Gélinas LJI reporter

Prime Minister Mark Carney abolished the carbon tax in Canada on April 1, 2025, except for Quebec. Having a different pricing system from the rest of Canada (cap-and-trade system for greenhouse gas emissions allowances) since 2013, the Outaouais region, like the rest of Quebec, will have to continue imposing this tax on consumers. As a result, this situation leads to a considerable price gap for gasoline between border regions, as is the case with Gatineau and Ottawa.

“Never in living memory have we seen such significant gaps,” said Carol Montreuil, Vice-President of the Canadian Fuels Association. “These differences can reach up to 30 cents per litre […].”

According to Montreuil, this is an untenable situation for gasoline retailers, who must face this kind of competition in a difficult economic period. “Consumers are right to shop around for better prices,” she said. “This doesn’t mean that people aren’t concerned about the environment, but right now, they have other priorities with the rising cost of living. The government should implement a gas rebate system if it wants to provide some relief and make retailers more competitive.”

Daniel Breton, President and CEO of Electric Mobility Canada stated, “The problem is that people don’t know where the money from this tax is going. People need to be better informed and have better access to information because, right now, there’s a huge lack of transparency.”

The money generated by the carbon tax will first be used to invest in several climate change network projects financially supported by the Quebec government. “Some of these projects are good and some are not so good,” stated Breton. “Among the main projects are the charging infrastructure file and the purchase of electric vehicles. However, by 2027, the rebate offered for the purchase of electric cars will disappear. The owner of this type of car will then have to pay a tax,” he added.

“I believe that, first and foremost, we should invest in efficient, electrified public transportation throughout Quebec,” said Breton. “Currently, public transit is underfunded.”

By 2030, the government’s goal is to reduce its petroleum product consumption by 40% compared to 2013 levels. Daniel Breton pointed out that the measures currently in place are not sufficient to achieve this rate.

However, the transition to electric car purchases appears to be accelerating. This will significantly improve the environment and public health. “According to Health Canada, the cost of road pollution is estimated at more than $10.5 billion for Canada, including $2 billion for Quebec,” Breton stated.

Nevertheless, Quebec Premier François Legault has emphasized that people will have to wait for the election results on April 28 before a decision on suspending the tax is made.

Photo: Daniel Breton, President and CEO of Electric Mobility Canada, in front of the Parliament Buildings in Ottawa (June 12, 2024) (MG) Photo: Electric Mobility Canada Facebook Page

MÉLISSA GÉLINAS
LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

SHAWVILLE – Easter Sunday took an unexpected turn for St. Paul’s Anglican Church in Shawville when Reverend Eric Morin discovered the church had been vandalized early that morning (April 20).

“The word that comes to mind is disappointment,” said Rev. Morin. “I find the situation sad and unfortunate, especially because it happened on Easter Sunday, our most important celebration of the year.”

“When I arrived at the church for service around 10:30 am, I saw the damage that had been done,” he explained. “The light fixture that illuminates the back door had been ripped out, the surveillance camera was gone, the basement window had been smashed, and the words ‘No fate’ were carved into the front door with a knife.”

The church’s alarm system was triggered when the window was broken. Around 5 am, officers from the Sûreté du Québec (SQ) in the Pontiac MRC detachment responded to the call. “We went to Main Street in Shawville in connection with a mischief complaint,” said SQ media relations officer Marc Tessier. According to Tessier, the window may have been smashed with the broken door handle. However, no one is believed to have entered the building.

Rev. Morin said he does not yet know the estimated cost of the damage but suspects it will exceed the insurance deductible. “We probably won’t receive full compensation from insurance to cover all the repairs,” he noted. “We’re currently in the process of taking the necessary steps. Following this incident, we’ll be looking into additional security measures.”

As of now, no suspects have been arrested and the investigation is ongoing, according to Tessier.

Photo – Plastic covers the basement window of St. Paul’s Anglican Church in Shawville, which was vandalized on Easter morning. (DS)

Mélissa Gélinas
Local Journalism Initiative

OUTAOUAIS – A $25 million investment is planned to improve Quebec’s cellular network in 2025–2026 through the addition of new towers. However, the Quebec government recently announced that the Outaouais region will be excluded from the provincial cellular coverage plan.

“Six months ago, I attended a conference held by the Quebec Federation of Municipalities (FQM) where I learned that the plan to roll out cellular service would cover the entire province, according to Premier François Legault’s promise to do so by 2026,” said Jane Toller, warden of the Pontiac MRC. “I later found out that the Outaouais had been excluded from that timeline and that the rollout [in our region] would likely happen in 2027 or 2028.”

Toller called the situation unacceptable, pointing out that several municipalities, including Waltham, have no cellular service at all. “It’s especially concerning when it comes to emergencies,” she said. “For example, there’s no coverage while driving along [some sections] of Highway 148, and that’s a serious issue.”

She also noted similar problems on Highway 105 and in Maniwaki, where the network is unreliable.Despite this, the Quebec government continues to claim that the Vallée-de-la-Gatineau has the same level of cellular service as the rest of the Outaouais. But according to Chantal Lamarche, warden of the Vallée-de-la-Gatineau, officials and elected representatives in Quebec City are unaware of the reality and complexity of the region’s geography outside of the City of Gatineau.

“As members of the Outaouais Wardens’ Conference (CPO), we will be submitting a resolution to the Quebec government calling for equitable cellular service across the region and for the rollout to take place by 2026,” said Toller.

The Minister responsible for both communications and the Outaouais, Mathieu Lacombe, did not respond to the Journal’s requests for comment.

Mélissa Gélinas
Local Journalism Initiative

PONTIAC – More than 58,838 voters in the Pontiac–Kitigan Zibi riding cast their ballots in the federal election held on Monday, April 28. With a total population of 111,138, the voter turnout was approximately 53%. The majority of votes went to the Liberal Party of Canada, with incumbent Liberal MP Sophie Chatel winning 55% of the vote.

“I am deeply grateful to the people of the Pontiac–Kitigan Zibi riding for placing their trust in me to represent them,” said Sophie Chatel. “Our region and our country face major challenges, and now is the time to unite and work together,” she added.

Chatel said her four priorities returning to parliament are:
• Working to remove interprovincial trade barriers, both at the federal level and between Quebec and Ontario.
• Prioritizing the processing and sale of agri-food products and ensuring the sector can reach its full potential.
• Securing funding for recreational tourism initiatives.
• Building housing using locally sourced wood.Results by party in Pontiac–Kitigan Zibi
• Liberal Party of Canada – Sophie Chatel: 32,149 votes – 55%
• Conservative Party of Canada – Brian Nolan: 16,174 votes – 28%
• Bloc Québécois – Suzanne Proulx: 6,099 votes – 10%
• New Democratic Party – Gilbert W. Whiteduck: 2,990 votes – 5%
• Green Party of Canada – Claude Bertrand: 750 votes – 1%
• People’s Party of Canada – Todd Hoffman: 676 votes – 1%

National results by party
Across Canada, over 19.5 million voters participated in the 2025 federal election, representing a turnout of 69%.
• Liberal Party – Mark Carney: 44% – 169 seats
• Conservative Party of Canada – Pierre Poilievre: 41% – 143 seats
• Bloc Québécois – Yves-François Blanchet: 6% – 23 seats
• New Democratic Party – Jagmeet Singh: 6% – 7 seats
• Green Party of Canada – Elizabeth May: 1% – 1 seat
• People’s Party of Canada – Maxime Bernier: 1% – 0 seats

Mark Carney has thus won the federal election and will serve as Canada’s new prime minister. He will lead a Liberal minority government. As long as the minority government does not lose a vote of confidence (which is determined by the support of the House of Commons), it may remain in power until the end of its mandate.

According to the Parliament of Canada website, confidence votes include votes on the budget and the Speech from the Throne, which outlines the government’s priorities.
If a government loses a vote of confidence, the prime minister and Cabinet must resign.

They may also request that the Governor General dissolve Parliament. In that case,
a general election is held to form a new government. A minority government must gain the support of one or more other parties to pass legislation.

Photo – Incumbent MP Sophie Chatel celebrates her win on election night at the
Chelsea Pub. (Sophie Chatel)

MÉLISSA GÉLINAS
LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

MRC PONTIAC – To continue serving the Pontiac community, Shawville’s arena will undergo major renovations, while upgrades have already started at the Centre de loisirs des Draveurs Century 21 Élite in Fort-Coulonge.

Shawville Arena
The Shawville facility requires work on the walls, exterior metal siding, and insulation. “The floor and refrigeration system also need to be replaced,” said the recently formed Pontiac Arena Fund Committee. “This is a top priority for us.”

A $2-million investment is planned to replace the refrigeration system, pour a new concrete floor, and install insulation beneath the bleachers. “We’ll turn to local organizations, businesses, municipalities, and all levels of government to raise the necessary funds,” the committee said.

To help fund replacement of the two exterior walls, the Municipality of Shawville and the Agricultural Society will partner to contribute more than $50,000 annually.

“We’re grateful for the Pontiac community’s continued support,” the committee noted. “Many families rely on the arena, and we’re committed to ensuring it remains a hub for the region.”

Centre de loisirs Des Draveurs Century 21 Élite
Two major upgrades were recently completed at the Fort-Coulonge arena. “We replaced the condenser system and piping at a total cost of $343,000,” said Christine Bourque, vice-president of the arena committee.

Funding came from the MRC Pontiac, the municipalities of Fort-Coulonge and Mansfield, and a fundraising campaign organized by the committee.

“The second project involved repairing the arena’s exterior, adding new metal siding and insulation,” Bourque added. “That cost $93,000. Our main goal is to ensure the arena remains accessible to the region’s youth and families.”

The committee continues to seek funds to complete future projects.

The committee also secured a set of gently used rink boards from the Arnprior arena to replace its aging 1967 boards. Although not originally budgeted for, the $16,000 purchase was made possible in part by an unexpected $8,000 donation from Pontiac MNA André Fortin’s office. Volunteers helped coordinate transportation and storage of the boards, which will be installed once the ice is out.

A grant from the Ministry for Seniors is helping transform the upstairs hall into a more accessible and welcoming space for seniors. “The funding came through a program we applied for,” said Bourque. Plans include furnishing the room with tables, chairs, a television, stereo system, and games like cribbage and darts. “This will give older residents a place to gather and enjoy social activities,” she added.

“On behalf of the committee, we sincerely thank the community for its ongoing support,” Bourque said. “Thanks to your help, we can continue investing in the arena, which remains the heart of our community.”

Photo – Families enjoy skating at the Shawville Arena during the Winter Carnival, Feb. 8. (Municipality of Shawville)

Mélissa Gélinas

Linda Larocque decided to step down as president of Impératif français on April 2, following the strong reactions she provoked by posting xenophobic comments on social media.

Some of her comments were:

“Islam in Islamic lands… not in Quebec, a secular land, damn it!”

“The veil offends me, and I despise those who wear it in secular Quebec.”

“In Rome, we do as the Romans did, go back to your Islamist countries, quickly.”

“We are being invaded.”

In addition to Larocque’s resignation, four members of Impératif français’s board of directors, including Sylvie Lemay, secretary; Gaston Carmichael, administrator; Gérard Lebrun, advisor; and her spouse, Pierre Vachon, treasurer, also submitted their resignations. “I believe this is a wise decision,” commented Maude Marquis-Bissonnette, Mayor of Gatineau. “The city will be there to support them, because we fundamentally believe in the mission of Impératif français and Outaouais en fête,” she continued. “We want this festival to continue in 2025 and beyond.” According to the Mayor, the City of Gatineau could not tolerate being associated with a partner whose spokespersons made comments like these. The goal is to be able to maintain the organization’s services and activities.

Wassim Aboutanos, the organization’s vice-president, will assume the interim presidency. “What’s important for us is that the organization be aligned with its values ​​and with the people it represents,” said Wassim. “When representing an organization, we have to stand by our words and our values.”

Furthermore, a new board of directors will be elected following a special general meeting to be convened shortly. “More than 20 members have requested this,” explained Wassim.

Shortly before her resignation, Linda Larocque issued an apology that was not well received. Mayor Marquis-Bissonnette stated that there was still much work to be done within the Impératif français organization. “I stand by what I said yesterday, which is that it’s difficult for an organization to maintain its position on statements like these in a context where it receives a lot of public money,” she said. “[…] these comments are unacceptable, in my opinion.”

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

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

During lunch break on March 20, more than a dozen prisoners at the Hull detention centre decided to demonstrate their delinquency by throwing and destroying objects in the lunch area.

An emergency team intervened to restore discipline and order. “There were no injuries, thanks to the officers’ rapid response,” said Mathieu Lavoie, president of the Quebec Union of Peace Officers in Correctional Services. “This was an area where behavior had been problematic for several days.”

The increasing rate of violence in prisons is a reality that is becoming increasingly problematic and, unfortunately, few resources are available to alleviate the situation. “The Superior Court has taken away a lot of power from correctional officers,” said Lavoie. “This prevents us from managing a very violent prison population.”

Furthermore, security on the premises is also suboptimal. Several drones transport weapons, drugs, and cell phones to inmates. “This is the reality in prisons today,” Lavoie explained. “We’re calling for intervention tools and taking no action has the effect of encouraging and increasing the trafficking of illegal items and drugs. Although officers are responsible for screening prisoners using X-ray machines, drone activity has increased significantly in recent years.

Given the facility’s dilapidated condition, inmates regularly manage to break their cell windows to retrieve their packages. “We’ve resorted to appealing to the Commission des normes, de l’équité, de la santé et de la sécurité au travail (CNESST) and the courts to secure the windows, since the government isn’t taking action.” According to Lavoie, this problem isn’t just affecting Gatineau, but all detention facilities across Quebec.

In addition to this issue, the Hull prison is an outdated facility that needs major investment, particularly in the old section. “There are still barred doors that are no longer compliant,” explained Mathieu. “Construction of these stopped over 40 years ago.” Solid (closed) doors need to be installed. This prevents objects from being thrown and/or the lock from being tampered with.

On the other hand, according to information gathered from the Quebec Treasury Board Secretariat, the infrastructure will need to be redeveloped and expanded to meet the requirements and the current lack of prison capacity.

Photo: Quebec Correctional Services Badge (December 12, 2024) (MG) Photo: Correctionnellement Facebook Page

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

A lockdown alarm was triggered at Hormisdas-Gamelin High School and the adjacent Vocational Training Centre in the Buckingham sector on March 19 at approximately 12:15 p.m.

Following this alarm, the Gatineau Police Service (SPVG) deployed a large number of police officers who quickly arrived on site to secure the area.

During this time, students had to follow lockdown procedures. “I found this experience really stressful,” said Rosealie Charbonneau, a student at the high school. “No one was aware of the situation, and we had to be confined to our classrooms for a long time.” Once the site was secured, the SPVG confirmed that there were no active threats or injuries. However, as a precautionary measure, medical interventions were carried out. The lockdown was lifted around 3:15 pm.

Despite the situation progressing smoothly, it caused a great deal of stress for students and parents. “I learned the news on Facebook,” said Brigitte Gélinas, Rosealie Charbonneau’s mother. “Several rumors circulated that there was apparently an armed person in the school. At the time, no one knew if it was true or false, but it was still very distressing. The news quickly spread at my workplace, and many parents decided to leave to go to the school grounds.”

To date, no cause for this incident has been confirmed and the investigation is still ongoing. The SPVG is taking this opportunity to remind citizens of the importance of seeking information from official sources to prevent the spread of misinformation. As for the rumours reported on social media, they have been denied by the police.

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

The new US tariffs will affect several businesses in the region, including many local breweries where some beers come from their southern neighbour.

The new tariff measures don’t appear to have an impact on beer prices yet, but they will soon be felt. “The impact won’t be instantaneous,” emphasized Daniel Lagacé, owner of Bistro L’Autre Œil in Aylmer.

Several breweries, particularly macrobreweries, have already pre-ordered large quantities of their spirits from the United States. “They have the means to secure supplies over the long term, unlike microbreweries,” explained Sébastien Gandy, head of sales, communications, and cultural affairs at La Dérive Brasserie Artisanale in Gatineau. According to reports, the cost of a can could potentially increase by 10 to 30 cents. “If it were as simple as raising the price of a can and passing it on to customers, it wouldn’t be so complicated,” said Sébastien. “The real issue is that we’re already in a price war since there’s competition between microbreweries and macrobreweries, which always have the upper hand.” In this sense, beer prices at small breweries, which are already a little higher than average, will make it harder for them to compete.

With imagination, solutions can be found, according to Nathalie, owner of Fine et Futés in Buckingham. “Personally, I find that craft brewers are brimming with creativity,” she said. “Even if they find themselves with a hop shortage, I think they could simply invent a new beer.”

For Sébastien, there are few alternatives to alleviate the situation. “Ultimately, we’re caught in a political war that makes no sense, where we don’t have the tools to achieve our goals,” he said. “I think we still feel a desire among the population to encourage smaller local players.”

On the other hand, Daniel believes the issue will be more pronounced in terms of supply. “For breweries like mine that do business with the Société des alcools du Québec (SAQ), it’s currently impossible to purchase American products, whether it’s spirits, wine, or beer,” he pointed out. “While these tariffs can be worrying, the cost of living is also increasing, and when I see my bill, it makes me a little less afraid.”

Photo: Cans of beer with a glass (March 14, 2025) (MG) Photo: Facebook page of À La Dérive Brasserie Artisanale

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

The Western Quebec Career Centre (WQCC) welcomed several students, parents, and guests to the Wellness Fair, which took place at 100 Frank-Robinson Avenue in Aylmer on March 25 from 10 am to 12 pm. The objective of this event was to raise awareness, inform, and support young people and adults in their professional and personal development, with the participation of various organizations in the Outaouais region, such as:

• L’Autre Chez-Soi (Assistance and shelter for women victims of domestic violence and their children)

• The Outaouais Integrated Health and Social Services Centre (CISSSO)

• Carrefour jeunesse emploi de l’Outaouais

• Service Intégration Travail Outaouais (SITO)

• Connexions Resource Centre

• The First Nations of Quebec Human Resources Development Commission

• Option Femmes

• Western Quebec Literacy Council

• And many others

This was an opportunity to discuss a variety of topics, such as mental health, substance use disorders, reintegration into the workforce, career choices, and more.

For example, the Connexion Resource Centre organization helps individuals with mental health issues, particularly those suffering from suicidal thoughts. To this end, the Centre offers accessible resources, health promotion activities, videoconferences, workshops, and more.

“It’s a day where several partners from the region come together and share their services,” said Alex, an academic advisor at WQCC. “We’ve been holding this event every two years for the past 17 years,” he added. “It allows students, parents, and adults to get a better idea of ​​the types of organizations in the region and the services offered.”

Photo: Western Quebec Literacy Council booth at the WQCC Wellness Fair (March 25, 2025) (MG) Photo: Mélissa Gélinas

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

With the rise in technology, social media, and artificial intelligence, online disinformation, sometimes known as “fake news,” has grown significantly.

The goal is to share false information to mislead individuals. Online disinformation is also designed to provoke strong emotional reactions in the recipient. In more serious cases, it can also lead to harassment, hatred, and violence.

False information can lead to poor daily decisions regarding health, finances, and more. Therefore, it is particularly harmful when it concerns health and well-being. It can involve miracle cures, weight-loss programs, false information about vaccinations, and more. According to the Government of Canada website, health misinformation can lead to financial loss, a lack of interest in seeking qualified medical help, and a health hazard (if counterfeit products/medications are taken).

While it’s not always easy to spot, there are some warning signs to watch out for:

– Triggering an emotional reaction

– Bold statements on a controversial topic

– Exaggerated claims

– And many others

Several online fact-checking tools are also available to identify misinformation: https://bit.ly/fact-search, https://factcheck.afp.com/, and https://www.snopes.com/.

It is particularly recommended to identify the source of the information, verify it, and compare it with other media outlets to see if they report the same information.

Social media is one of the vehicles for spreading misinformation through fake profiles. To spot them, simply:

– Check your profile picture

– Identify spelling and/or grammar errors

– Look at interactions and follower count

– And much more

For more information about online disinformation, visit: https://www.canada.ca/en/campaign/online-disinformation.html#1

Photo: Woman covering her eyes in front of her computer (March 28, 2025) (MG) Photo: Pixabay.com

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

The Old Gatineau Business and Professionals Association (AGAP) and its Board of Directors held an annual general meeting at 330 Notre-Dame Street on Wednesday, March 26, to review achievements, projects, and directions for 2025.

The event began at 6 pm, when guests enjoyed a welcome cocktail and discussion. A president and secretary were then elected. Several items were read, including the notice of meeting, the adoption of the agenda, and the adoption of the minutes of the 2023 AGM. The 2024 financial statements were then presented.

A Word from the President: Daniel Baril

“The revitalization of Old Gatineau, and closer to home, its commercial heart, represents a long-term process. The seeds sown yesterday, sometimes dormant, have sprouted and then emerged, motivating us to continue, and even to reap the rewards.”

A Word from the Executive Director: Pauline Bouchard

“Commercial development is now part of a common language. Far from being opposed to economic development, it represents one of the most structuring foundations for a strong and diversified local economy. A local economy interwoven into our daily lives.”

2024 Annual Report and 2025 Directions

The meeting continued with the presentation of the 2024 annual report and the 2025 action plan. This report addressed several topics. First, an explanation of the association and its organization was presented to provide a clearer understanding of AGAP.

Next, the marketing aspect was presented through various projects, activities, and shows such as: Notre-Dame en fête, Chantons ensemble, Placette Main, Marché des fêtes, and more.

A commercial economic development analysis was conducted to obtain an overall picture of spending, participation rates, visitor origins, and several other aspects.

The urban redevelopment of Notre-Dame Street was also discussed to highlight the physical improvements made to the area for its revitalization.

In addition, various communication methods, such as social media, media, websites, advertising posters, and others, were presented to promote the various activities.

The orientations for 2025 were presented in relation to various projects, developments, marketing, and land use planning. “We will have a marketing strategy called BB aux oeufs bleus (an egg hunt activity for children) that will begin on April 2 in three sectors of the city: Old Aylmer, Gatineau, and Old Gatineau,” explained Pauline Bouchard.

Nominations, Candidates, and Speeches

The meeting continued with several nominations, such as the appointment of an auditor for 2025 and an election chair and secretary. A nomination and election of directors were also adopted. The event concluded with speeches from the group.

Photo: Pauline Bouchard, Executive Director, during her presentation at the 2024 AGAP General Meeting (March 26, 2025) (MG) Photo: Mélissa Gélinas

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

At the meeting of the Commission sur les transports, les déplacements durables et la sécurité held on February 27, three presentations were given to provide updates on proposals and various projects.

Presentation 1: Parking for Persons with Disabilities (PWD)

With an increasingly aging population in Gatineau, the number of parking permits distributed to PWDs has increased significantly in recent years. “In Quebec, by 2030, 25% of the population will be aged 65 and over,” said Chantal Lanoix, Team Leader at l’analyse et à la redaction réglementaire au Service de l’urbanisme et du développement durable.

Consequently, the increase in the aging population creates other issues related to accessibility, safety, and maintenance. To address this issue, several suggestions have been proposed.

First of all, the proposal is to increase the number of parking spaces.

Second, it would be important to have a safe and barrier-free path between the parking spaces and the main building. “This would ensure visibility and limit the risk of collisions with motorists,” Lanoix emphasized.

In the new regulations, there is no provision ensuring that there would be at least one parking space for people with disabilities in indoor spaces.

“Furthermore, electric charging stations should be required in parking spaces for people with disabilities,” she said.

Presentation 2: The Implementation of the Tramway

The implementation of the Tramway will accomplish several things, but above all, it is an investment in the future of the city. It will meet a need in the western part of Gatineau. “We would have fewer buses in the downtown areas of Gatineau and Ottawa, and this would allow us to have a certain individual capacity for the future […],” emphasized Stephanie McNeely, surface infrastructure director at the Société de transport de l’Outaouais (STO).

The western part of Gatineau is an area that needs a structuring mode of transportation due to its high ridership and its numerous hubs of educational, commercial, cultural, and sports activities. It also has a growing population. “By 2051, there will be approximately 100,000 more residents in Gatineau,” said McNeely.

The Tramway can carry a greater number of passengers than buses can. “For a 45-meter-long tram, approximately 300 passengers can fit inside,” McNeely explained.

Furthermore, the introduction of this new mode of transportation will contribute significantly to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, while changing transportation habits.

Presentation 3: Policy on the Improvement of Sidewalks and Pedestrian Crossings in Built Environments

This policy specifically addresses missing infrastructure on already constructed streets. “It will not address infrastructure repairs,” emphasizes Luc St-Arnaud, division head of the Asset Planning and Investment Department at the City of Gatineau.

This policy specifically addresses missing infrastructure on already constructed streets. “It won’t address infrastructure repairs,” emphasized Luc St-Arnaud, Division Chief of the Asset Planning and Investment Department at the City of Gatineau.

Gatineau has more than 730 pedestrian crossings, about 100 of which are not designed according to development standards that allow for safe travel and proper maintenance. “Pedestrian crossings are alleys, footbridges, or corridors,” explained St-Arnaud.

On the other hand, the extension and addition of sidewalks are desired in certain locations across the territory. “These may be safety corridors, along school routes, or where there is public transit,” he explained. “Population density also justifies the addition of a sidewalk,” he added. In total, more than 35 kms of sidewalks will need to be added in Gatineau.

“The priority of our policy is to reduce travel distances for pedestrians,” Luc says. “All our crosswalks should reduce the travel distance to get to school, to the next bus stop, or simply to get around the neighborhood,” St-Arnaud added.

The second priority would be for crosswalks to provide access to parks and, finally, to provide access to green spaces.

“We hope the commission will recommend that our policy be adopted by City Council this spring,” St-Arnaud said.

Photo: Gatineau Park Trail (October 9, 2024) (MG) Photo: Gatineau Park Facebook Page

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

More than eight branches of the Société d’alcool du Québec (SAQ) will close their doors across Quebec. By the end of 2025, the SAQ located in downtown Hull on Promenade du Portage will also be closed.

As a government corporation, the SAQ plays a role in the vitality of several sectors that contribute to quality of life and attractiveness. “We hope this decision will be reversed,” said Maude Marquis-Bissonnette, Mayor of Gatineau.

A few years ago, the ARIANE alliance adopted a national planning and architecture policy to make it a priority in Quebec. “However, with recent SAQ closures like the one in downtown Hull, this is not translating into action,” emphasized Marquis-Bissonnette. “It’s not consistent.”

According to the mayor, the financial injection has a positive effect on downtown revitalization, but the government corporation must collaborate and work with Gatineau to achieve the desired objectives. “We have taken steps at the local and national levels to ensure our voice is heard,” she said.

“The SAQs in the area are profitable, but not as much as in other parts of the city where there are larger branches,” explains the mayor.

Indeed, the lack of traffic is one of the issues. According to Philippe Deschamps, communications strategist at Vision Centre-Ville, it would be faster for Hull Island residents to take their bikes to Ottawa’s Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) than to the SAQ near the Casino Lac-Lemay.

“To have a complete downtown, we need a diverse range of services,” emphasized Philippe Deschamps. “However, it’s not up to the government corporation to meet all residents’ needs or to revitalize the downtown area alone.” From another perspective, it seems that the return of public servants to the office full-time is having an impact on the decline in the number of customers.

Scheduling is also a problem. “I often hear people say they prefer to go across the river to the LCBO because it closes at 9 pm, unlike the SAQ, which closes at 6 pm,” said Danny Plante, owner of the Saveurs Épicerie Urbaine grocery store.

For Danny Plante, the SAQ in downtown Hull is his ally. “For me, the announcement of its closure hit like a hammer blow,” he said. One proposed solution would be for the branch to become a service point within his grocery store. For now, several requests have been made to government authorities.

Photo: Maude Marquis-Bissonnette, Mayor of Gatineau, answers media questions about the SAQ closure during the press scrum (March 12, 2025). (MG) Photo: Screenshot

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

Since the pandemic, more and more people have experienced difficulties with their mental health. Today, although the pandemic is over, Canada-US economic tensions are now one of the factors most affecting the psychological well-being of Quebecers.

Indeed, phone calls continue to increase to the group AUPRÈS, a non-profit organization located in Aylmer that supports people with mental health difficulties. “People are currently very worried about the Canada-US economic conflict,” said Marjolaine Chrétien, Executive Director of AUPRÈS. “They wonder if they will have enough money to put food on the table and pay their rent. Some have even developed a fear of television or fear that President Donald Trump could destroy the planet.”

All things considered, rising tariffs, inflation, and rising rents are causing a lot of anxiety for many. According to information gathered, the people seeking help from the organization range in age from 30 to 80. “Our clientele is very diverse,” Marjolaine emphasized.

The organization’s goal is to reassure people and support them on their journey to recovery. “There will always be someone to listen and meet with them,” Marjolaine commented. Outings and meetings are also offered to help break their isolation. “Circles of friends are formed, and this contributes to creating a healthy and enjoyable social life.”

Activities and training are also offered. “We invite them to join training sessions so they can learn how to take care of themselves, budget, shop wisely, and much more,” explained Marjolaine.

AUPRÈS has been in existence for 25 years and has more than 70 users. “Since the pandemic, we’ve been in high demand,” she said. “Today, we’re facing a new issue, and we’re here to maintain people’s mental health.”

For more information about the organization, visit the website: https://www.aupres.ca/

Photo: Marjolaine Chrétien, Executive Director at AUPRÈS (December 20, 2024) (MG) Photo: Courtesy of Marjolaine Chrétien

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

Canadians deserve to age with dignity. To support seniors in the Outaouais region, Steven MacKinnon, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour, announced, on behalf of Minister of Seniors Joanne Thompson, that the federal government has approved funding for 42 projects, totaling $6.5 million, under the community and pan-Canadian components of the New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP) and the Aging Well at Home initiative.

Minister MacKinnon was joined by Maude Marquis-Bissonnette, Mayor of Gatineau, Pierre Guénard, Mayor of Chelsea, several MPs and city councillors, and representatives of organizations at this important announcement, which took place on Thursday, March 13, at the Buckingham Curling Club. “I am extremely proud to announce this government investment, right here in Gatineau, to support our seniors,” said Steven MacKinnon. “The investment announced today is concrete proof of what we can accomplish when we join forces to support our communities,” he added.

This investment will also strengthen our commitment to the most vulnerable seniors. “Today, we are taking a strong step toward their inclusion and well-being,” emphasized the Mayor of Gatineau.

Regarding the distribution of this investment, $5 million over five years will go to the City of Gatineau’s Collective Impact Initiative, selected as part of the 2023-2024 call for project proposals for the pan-Canadian component of the NHSP. “Thanks to this federal investment, we will be able to support 15 initiatives from east to west that will directly reach more than 7,000 beneficiaries,” explained Marquis-Bissonnette.

$800,000 will be used to fund 39 projects in the Outaouais region as part of the NHSP’s community component. “This component will fund a wide range of projects, such as online computer courses, financial education and fraud prevention awareness activities, meal delivery, and the purchase of equipment to help seniors stay informed, connected, and engaged in the community,” said Stéphane Lauzon, MNA for Argenteuil-La Petite Nation.

In addition, $700,000 has been allocated to fund two projects in Gatineau as part of the Home Support Pilot Project component of the Aging Well at Home initiative, to enable seniors to remain safely and comfortably in their own homes. The Mayor of Gatineau highlighted the exemplary work of her colleague Jean Lessard, Chair of the Seniors Commission and City Councillor for the Rivière-Blanche district, as well as all the members. “Thanks to your commitment and determination, we are building a more inclusive team where our seniors find support, a listening ear, and opportunities to fully thrive,” she said.

From left to right: Sophie Chatel, Member of Parliament for Pontiac; Maude Marquis-Bissonnette, Mayor of Gatineau; Steven MacKinnon, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour; Stéphane Lauzon, Member of Parliament for Argenteuil-La Petite Nation, during the announcement of funding for seniors in Gatineau and the Outaouais region at the Buckingham Curling Club (March 13, 2025). MG Photo: Mélissa Gélinas

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

It took just over two hours for 25 firefighters from the Gatineau Fire Department to bring the flames under control on March 8 at a residence located at 1011 Klock Road in the Aylmer sector.

According to information gathered, a neighbour alerted authorities around 7:30 pm. Officers of the Gatineau Police Department (SPVG) responded immediately to the scene. According to Patrick Kenney, public relations officer for the SPVG, two people were evacuated and no one was injured.

“Since this is not a criminal incident, we will not be conducting any investigation,” said Kenney.

The damages totalled more than $265,740. However, thanks to the fire department’s rapid response, the garage and the parents’ apartment were spared significant damage.

Photo: Firefighters extinguishing a fire (October 6, 2024) (MG) Photo: City of Gatineau Facebook Page

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

When the 2025 budget was adopted on December 10, 2024, it was decided to extend the taxation of non-residential parking spaces to the entire territory of the city of Gatineau. However, approval of this new tax is far from unanimous among merchants.

More specifically, this measure targets large commercial parking areas, including registered vehicles, whether customers or employees. Small businesses, private and public transit companies, car dealerships, taxi companies and spaces related to the day-to-day activities of businesses (such as delivery and logistics) benefit from an exemption.

The objectives are to diversify revenues, reduce dependence on property taxes and reduce environmental impacts and mobility. The measure is expected to generate revenues of $27 million for the city. “What we want to tax are large parking spaces, because we know that by doing this, we will be able to redevelop the city within the city; be able to limit these large parking spaces in order to transform them, for example, into underground parking lots, or into housing that will help address the housing crisis,” emphasized Gatineau Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette.

Given inflation, high interest rates and a lack of manpower, many businesses have seen their costs explode, and even more so since receiving their municipal tax bill. “We’re talking about a tax increase of up to 30%,” said Etienne Fredette, Executive Director of the Gatineau Chamber of Commerce. “This new tax represents additional pressure for already weakened sectors. We’re talking about more than $27 million that is being absorbed by 40% of businesses.” He emphasized that it is essential to remember that businesses have been hit hard economically since the pandemic. “As for timing, it couldn’t have been worse!” he exclaimed. Furthermore, these businesses are mainly made up of grocery stores and pharmacies, which represent essential services. “Most grocery stores in our region are paying about $300,000 in additional taxes,” said Fredette. “The costs will therefore have to be passed on to customers. As a result, your bag of carrots could cost you more.”

In addition to raising prices for consumers, this new tax is likely to weaken businesses and reduce jobs. “This tax is definitely not going to solve the challenges of sustainable mobility,” he said. “We are therefore asking the city to review the way it applies it, if not abolish it.”

The CCG is currently collecting testimonies from merchants to learn about the tax increase they are facing and the impact it could have on their businesses. The information collected will allow the CCG to determine the real impact of this measure and better defend the interests of its members. In addition, the CCG invites merchants to come out in large numbers to the next municipal council meeting, scheduled for March 18, to question elected officials on this subject.

Photo: Maude Marquis-Bissonnette, Mayor of Gatineau, answers journalists’ questions during a press scrum regarding the adoption of the 2025 budget (December 10, 2024). (MG) Photo: Screenshot

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

Gatineau Police are getting a financial boost for their services to people in crisis. Hull MNA Suzanne Tremblay announced funding $732,700 to the Gatineau Police (SPVG) to consolidate its mixed practice projects aimed at meeting the needs of people experiencing homelessness or mental health issues. The announcement was made on February 17 on behalf of the Minister of Public Security, François Bonnardel.

“I am thrilled by this grant, which will allow the SPVG to create a police officer position and a civilian project coordinator position dedicated to homelessness and mental health issues,” said Simon Fournier, SPVG Police Chief.

This financial assistance was allocated to the SPVG through the new Program to Support Concerted Police Practices in Homelessness and Mental Health (PSPPC). In total, 22 police services in Quebec will share a sum of $9 million, including $5.5 million for municipal and Indigenous police services.

Since 2017, the Crisis Intervention Unit (UNIC) team has been working closely with the SPVG team. “So, we already have officers who work in partnership with social workers from the Outaouais Health and Social Services Centre (CISSSO),” said Fournier.

In this sense, the PSPPC will allow the UNIC team to maximize collaboration with its various partners who work in homelessness and mental health in the Gatineau territory, for a period of three years. “The goal is to support, accompany and develop intervention tools with local organizations, in order to improve service to citizens,” stated the police chief.

Lionel Carmant, Minister responsible for Social Services, added, “By supporting this program, we are making a concrete investment to improve care and social services trajectories, to reduce the judicialization of these people as well as the use of emergency services for psychosocial issues or mental health disorders.”

“Faced with increasingly pressing mental health and homelessness issues, this investment of $732,700 is a strong message from our government that confirms its commitment to supporting all members of our community and working toward better crisis management by guaranteeing the safety and well-being of our fellow citizens in Chapleau, Gatineau and Outaouais,” said Mathieu Lévesque, MNA for Chapleau.

Photo: Left to right: Maude Marquis-Bissonnette, Mayor of Gatineau, Simon Fournier, Chief of the SPVG, Suzanne Tremblay, MNA for Hull, and Mathieu Lévesque, MNA for Chapleau, during the announcement of $732,700 in financial assistance to the Gatineau Police Department as part of the Support Program for Concerted Police Practices in Homelessness and Mental Health (February 17, 2025). (MG) Photo: Facebook page Suzanne Tremblay, MNA for Hull

Mélissa Gélinas
Local Journalism Initiative

SHAWVILLE – After losing her debit card at a Shawville business, a woman alerted her financial institution and the Sûreté du Québec (SQ) on December 12, 2024.

According to information gathered, the card was allegedly stolen by a man and a woman, both between 30 and 45 years old. They were both dressed in black and wearing dark toques. “The woman was also wearing glasses,” said Marc Tessier, SQ media relations officer. “People can view the photos we have provided,” he added.

By the time the woman notified her financial institution, the suspects had already used her card. As a result, authorities were able to trace purchases made at two different Shawville businesses. “We cannot disclose which businesses were involved,” Tessier said, though Giant Tiger is recognizable in one of the photos of the suspects.

The stolen card had a tap payment feature with a set spending limit. “Although it’s now possible to tap a debit card for authorized amounts, this is still considered fraud,” Tessier explained.

The Pontiac SQ are asking the public to contact the police if they have any information or if they recognize the two suspects in the released photos.

Photo – Suspects sought in Shawville debit card theft. (SQ)

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LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

MRC PONTIAC – Since 2024, the local business component of the Regions and Rurality Fund (FRR), managed by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs (MAMH), has aimed to support access to local businesses in Quebec communities, strengthening their vitality. More than $50 million in financial assistance is available for regions with fewer than 20,000 residents, including MRC Pontiac.

A local business sells everyday consumer goods with a short shelf life, such as milk, bread, and gasoline. “These are essential items purchased regularly,” explained Mouncef Nouani, Business Advisor for the Pontiac MRC’s Economic Development department. Convenience stores (dépanneurs), hardware stores, and gas stations are examples of qualifying businesses.

The program offers grants over a five-year period. Each year, MAMH accepts project applications to allocate funding. “The grant starts at a minimum of $10,000 and can go up to $100,000,” said Nouani. “Certain expenses are eligible, while others are not. To be accepted, they must be tied to the purpose of the activity.”

“This program was launched in response to requests from underdeveloped or less dynamic regions,” he added.

To qualify, applicants must meet three criteria:
Type of applicant: Private businesses or social economy enterprises, such as non-profit organizations or cooperatives, may apply. Community organizations, municipal groups, or other entities are not eligible.
Location: The business must be situated in an area or municipality with fewer than 20,000 residents. “The Pontiac region meets this criterion,” said Nouani.
Type of business: The business must sell everyday consumer goods with a limited shelf life. Food service providers are not eligible.

“The call for projects will run from February 24 to April 11,” said Nouani. “Interested parties can submit their applications on the ministry’s website: https://www.quebec.ca/habitation-territoire/amenagement-developpement-territoires/developpement/fonds-programmes/fonds-regions-ruralite/volet-commerces-proximite.”

“We’ve already received several applications, and we are here to support and answer questions from the community,” Nouani added.

For more information, contact a member of the MRC’s Economic Development team at 819-648-5689, extension 244.

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LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

MRC PONTIAC – Re-established in 2023, the MRC Pontiac Youth Council is a group of high school students from across the region. Each month during the school year, members meet to discuss topics that matter to them and organize initiatives that benefit the community.

Mission and achievements
The Youth Council encourages youth involvement in various causes, fosters a sense of community belonging, and promotes leadership.

“The mission is to give young people a voice to improve life in the Pontiac,” explained Aidan McCann of Desjardinsville, Sheenboro, the newly elected council president.

He highlighted the council’s participation in job fairs, its efforts in organizing BBQ fundraisers for Bouffe Pontiac, and its involvement in various community events.

In 2024, members also launched a forum to openly discuss and raise awareness about youth mental health in the region.

Three new initiatives
“First, we’ve discussed plans for a new trade school in the Pontiac,” McCann noted. “This would allow local residents to build careers while feeling supported by their community. Skilled tradespeople will be the ones shaping the future of the Pontiac.”

Another pressing issue is the increasing use of vaping among youth. The council is working to educate young people on its harmful effects. “We are currently discussing strategies to combat its use,” he said.

The lack of driving schools in the Pontiac is another concern the council is addressing. “Right now, anyone who wants to get a driver’s licence has to travel all the way to Aylmer to take lessons,” McCann pointed out. “That’s a long trip for people in the Pontiac.”

To tackle this issue, the council has developed three potential solutions:
• Reach out to École de Conduite Technic of Aylmer to see if they would send instructors to the Pontiac or hire someone locally to teach.
• Encourage entrepreneurs to establish a new driving school in the region.
• Work with École de Conduite Technic to offer practice sessions for Pontiac students, allowing them to carpool and book lessons on the same day rather than travelling individually.

Officially elected as president
McCann expressed enthusiasm about his new role. “I look forward to working with the council, MRC Warden Jane Toller, staff and elected officials at the MRC to continue our efforts to improve the lives of young people in the region,” he said.

Encouraging more youth to get involved, he added, “The Youth Council is an inclusive and welcoming group, and we would love to have more young people join us.”

Anyone interested in joining the Youth Council can contact Warden Toller at prefete@mrcpontiac.qc.ca.

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Photo – New MRC Pontiac Youth Council President Aidan McCann. (Jonny Fliestra)

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

Despite many challenges and pitfalls and after several years of involvement and research, Aylmer resident Marie-Christine Goulet, a former respiratory therapist, managed to get rid of her epileptic seizures – a victory that she is very proud to be able to share with many people today.

Epileptic disorders (simple partial seizures) appeared in 2003, when she was 33 years old. “When it happened to me, I was unable to speak at all,” said Marie-Christine. “I didn’t even know they were epileptic seizures,” she adds.

So, for four years, three times a day, she suffered these seizures in silence. “I told myself that it would pass, and I didn’t dare tell anyone about it,” she said. During this period, she gave birth to her second child and continued to go to work where the seizures persisted. In 2007, following a tonic-clonic seizure (sudden loss of consciousness followed by muscle contractions all over the body), she decided to go see her family doctor who, after several tests, detected a brain abnormality.

Two years later, in 2009, an epileptologist specializing in refractory epilepsy at the Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal (CHUM) decided to operate on her by removing part of her insula. After five weeks with electrodes connected to her brain, the specialists discovered epileptic foci in the Broca area (the language area). “They told me they couldn’t operate on me there because I would become mute,” she said. “There wasn’t much that could be done.” However, thanks to the appropriate medication, the tonic-clonic seizures were well controlled, but the simple partial seizures continued to persist. After many years of service at the Centre intégré des services sociaux de l’Outaouais (CISSSO), Marie-Christine learned that she had been fired in 2010. “When I heard the news on the phone, I had an epileptic seizure because it had really affected my emotions,” she says. “I had been working there for seven years as a respiratory therapist and I loved my job,” she continued.

Despite the bad news, Marie-Christine kept busy, volunteered and accompanied her partner on official trips. The years went by and in 2020, she received a magazine from her mother entitled: Perdre du poids en mangerant du gras, which would change the course of her life. With nothing left to lose, Marie-Christine decided to start the ketogenic diet on her own.

To receive more help with her efforts, Marie-Christine decided in 2021 to enroll in the Bye-Bye Plateau program where she learned how to integrate fasting into her diet. The ketogenic diet combined with fasting therefore seems to be the solution to put an end to epileptic seizures.

However, in 2023, when she was returning from her trip, Marie-Christine had another seizure, after eating food served on the plane. “At that time, I was really hungry and I had no choice but to eat what was available,” she says. “After this seizure, I told myself that it was not normal, that I was not going to stop myself from going out,” she adds. Following this incident, while continuing to fast, Marie-Christine began adding exogenous ketone bodies (natural forms of ketones that the body can produce itself) to her diet, which allowed her to quickly fall into ketosis. This decision was the solution to the problem and Marie-Christine never had another seizure. “I finally understood that the real source of my seizures came from the carbohydrates I was consuming, since they were disrupting the proper functioning of my neurons,” she explains.

Marie-Christine Goulet (February 25, 2025) (MG) Photo: Courtesy of Marie-Christine Goulet

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

Following a reported string of car break-ins in the Plateau area, police say no reports have been filed. In mid- to late January, residents in the densely populated area between Hull and Aylmer complained on social media about several vehicle break-ins. “We didn’t receive any reports,” Gatineau Police spokesperson Patrick Kenney told the Aylmer Bulletin.

Kenney offered several vehicle break-in prevention tips. “Parking your vehicle in a well-lit area with video surveillance can dissuade criminals from committing theft or can help police gather important information in the event of a theft,” he said. “When you have to run the engine because the vehicle is covered by frost or ice, it is recommended that you stay close to it and keep it under your constant surveillance.”

Regarding the theft of vehicles for export, the SPVG wishes to advise the public that it is not impossible for the thieves to be spotted when they pass through the region. “We are therefore asking owners of recent luxury vehicles with push-button start to take the necessary measures to make access to their vehicle difficult,” continued Kenney. “This can be done by parking another vehicle in front of theirs or by using anti-theft protection methods.”

In addition, the SPVG recommends equipping yourself with anti-theft devices and systems available on the market, such as:

• anti-theft device on the vehicle’s steering wheel,
• OBD (on-board diagnostics) protector blocking access to the universal OBD port that provides access to the vehicle’s on-board computer,
• anti-theft system independent of the vehicle,
• tracking system independent of the vehicle.

Photo: SPVG police officers walking down a street (June 2, 2019) (MG) Photo: Gatineau Police Department Facebook Page

Mélissa LJI Reporter

Several city councillors came together to lend a hand by accumulating more than $19,000 through their discretionary budgets, allowing the Sanscartier Park heating station to stay open for an extra four hours, from 4 pm to 8 pm, to accommodate the homeless.

“City councillors got together and raised $13,000, in addition to $6,000 from Denis Girouard […],” said Annie Castonguay, coordinator of the Guertin and Sanscartier Park heating station.

Thanks to the amount obtained, the heating station will now be open from 4 pm to 8 pm until April 15. “This will allow us to ensure that people in this sector are not cold during this period,” said Castonguay.

Some of the funding raised will be used to pay employees, and it will also cover some of the cost of food and hygiene kits. “This will provide a little boost to the situation, because my team, which is extraordinary, is starting to find the situation difficult since they must constantly work with a feeling of helplessness,” she explained.

Although this is good news, other priority problems on the Guertin site remain unresolved. “People are very tired because they can only sleep in two-hour stretches […],” Castonguay pointed out. In fact, every two hours, people have to go outside for 10 minutes to do a rotation. “We reduced the time spent outside from 30 minutes to 10 because of the cold,” she said.

The Guertin heating station has no beds or adequate space to sleep. Some people have to sleep on picnic tables or on the ground. “It’s not a very restorative sleep.”

According to Castonguay, it’s also a way to encourage people to go to other services such as the Gîte Ami, a community temporary shelter for people experiencing homelessness. “However, some people have limited access to the Gîte due to disruptive behaviour,” she explained. “Others simply don’t feel comfortable going there.”

“Our goal is to be a lever for change, because it’s pointless to think that it’s possible to get by staying in a heating station,” she continued. “So, we must encourage people to go to other services. However, there’s a lot of service lacking in Sanscartier. For example, there is no Gîte Ami there.”

One solution, according to Castonguay, would be the development of a permanent warming shelter including prison-type equipment facilities. “That would be my goal, my dream, to be able to offer that to people who are in difficulty,” she said.

Photo: Interior of the Sanscartier Park warming shelter (December 21, 2024) (MG) Photo: Annie Castonguay Facebook Page

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

A traffic signalman lost his life following a collision with heavy machinery (snowblower) during a snow removal operation near the intersection of La Vérendrye Boulevard West and Rue de Cannes on February 24.

According to the information gathered, the victim was the father of a two-year-old girl and was in his thirties. The man was confirmed dead by first responders. Around 1 pm, officers from the Gatineau Police Department (SPVG) were alerted to the incident and went to the scene. Upon their arrival, a security perimeter was set up to protect the scene and carry out the necessary interventions.

A witness to the accident described what happened. “I was stopped at the traffic lights on the corner of Rue de Cannes and Boulevard La Vérendrye where I noticed a pedestrian (traffic signaller) […] to my right on the corner of the street,” he said. “When the light turned green, the snowblower started to turn at the intersection where the man was. It was at that precise moment that the man started running in the same direction as the heavy machinery, seeing that it would not stop.”

Although this is an isolated case, according to the information obtained, it has been possible to identify nearly 23 deaths since 2008 among road signaling workers while they were on duty. “Of course, there is always a risk in this type of work,” says Serge Carrière, a road signalman for 14 years and president of SNS Signalisation Inc. “Every three years, road signalmen must undergo training, but very often, it is citizens who are not attentive enough on the road and cause accidents. Last year, two road signalmen were hit. The first incident was caused by road rage and the other by passing in the right lane. We should perhaps consider equipping workers with a camera that they could wear.”

According to Carrière, more public awareness should be raised. “The police officers who are on the side of the road are always well respected since there is a protective corridor, but the traffic flaggers often find themselves on foot when they do their job. I recommend that people allow enough time to get where they are going and behave calmly on the road.”

For the moment, according to information from the SPVG, the incident does not involve any criminal act. “Our investigators will continue to assist the coroner in this investigation,” said Patrick Kenney, SPVG public relations officer.

Photo: SPVG vehicle (June 12, 2024) (MG) Photo: Gatineau Police Department Facebook page

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LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

MRC PONTIAC – Two good Samaritans have recently had their vehicles stolen while stopping to help stranded motorists. Although unrelated, both thefts were committed by young men from Montreal.

Incident in Campbell’s Bay
The first incident took place in Campbell’s Bay around 3 am when resident Maurice Morin was out checking road conditions for his family’s plow business. On Highway 148, Maurice noticed a car broken down on the side of the road and stopped to help. Meanwhile, Morin’s grandson, Steve, was following his usual plow route, and saw his grandfather with the stranded driver.

“My grandfather then decided to go to his garage to get the tools needed to change the flat tire,” Steve Morin explained. “I told the young man he could warm up in my truck while I cleared snow at Dean’s Grocer,” he added. “He stayed with me for a few minutes and seemed very polite, respectful, and grateful for the help. He didn’t appear to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol. He mentioned he was from Laval and was in the area to go snowmobiling with friends.”

However, Steve found the situation a bit odd as the man was heading in the wrong direction for his stated destination. “I just thought he was probably lost,” he said.

When Maurice returned, he realized he needed to go back to the garage for a grinder. During this time, the driver asked if he could accompany him. “Not even 30 minutes later, I found out the young man had stolen my grandfather’s truck,” Steve said.

Maurice reportedly tried to stop the thief but was unsuccessful. He called the police, who found the broken-down vehicle and quickly determined it was also stolen.

The next morning, around 6:30 am, police pursued the suspect on Highway 50 near Lachute, but he managed to escape after colliding with a police vehicle and another car. Continuing his flight, he was killed when he crashed into two more vehicles in Blainville. According to reports, the drivers of the other vehicles sustained only minor injuries.

The investigation is ongoing to determine the circumstances leading to the accident.

Incident in Waltham
In Waltham, on the afternoon of February 13, Sûreté du Québec (SQ) officers from the MRC Pontiac were alerted to a car that had gone off the road on Highway 148. While a good Samaritan stopped to help, the young man who had crashed took advantage of the situation, quickly getting into the good Samaritan’s car and fleeing eastward. The police were able to get a clear description of the suspect and the stolen vehicle.

They later located the car on Chemin de la Passe in Mansfield, with the suspect standing beside it. Officers arrested the 21-year-old man from Montreal, took him to the SQ station for processing, and then to the hospital for a blood test.

Police also discovered that the vehicle he was driving when he went off the road was stolen and had been reported by the Ontario Provincial Police.

According to SQ information, the suspect appeared at the Campbell’s Bay courthouse. As of now, no details have been released regarding the charges he faces.

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LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

FORT-COULONGE – On International Women’s Day, it’s important to recognize the significant role women play in our communities. At the Pontiac Community Futures Development Corporation (SADC), a predominantly female team drives economic growth and supports small businesses in the region.

The SADC is a non-profit organization funded by Canada Economic Development, dedicated to stimulating the local economy through various projects. “We have been supporting businesses, organizations focused on economic development, cooperatives, and community projects for nearly 40 years,” said Rhonda Perry, Executive Director of the SADC.

The organization is part of a national network present in rural areas across Canada. “SADCs are found from Newfoundland to British Columbia but only in rural communities, not urban centres,” Perry noted.

The Pontiac SADC team includes nine members, mostly women, with each playing a key role.

Leading with experience
Rhonda Perry has been with the SADC for 26 years, serving as Executive Director for over 15 years.

“After graduating, I worked at a youth centre in the Pontiac MRC,” Perry shared. “In 1998, I joined the SADC as a youth advisor for a new program called Youth Strategy. I later became a financial analyst before taking on my current role. I manage the budget, secure funding for our MRC, and maintain our presence in Pontiac’s communities to support businesses and economic development projects.”

Supporting local businesses
Brittany Morin, Business Advisor for Marketing and Communications, has been with the SADC since 2008. She specializes in project management, digital marketing, and economic development.

“After completing my studies in Montreal, I wanted to return to Pontiac and applied to the SADC,” Morin said. “I work with entrepreneurs to develop marketing strategies or assess their needs for their projects.”

Amy Taylor, Business Advisor specializing in startups and business planning, has been with the SADC for over 12 years. “I help entrepreneurs with everything related to entrepreneurship except financing,” Taylor explained. “I provide guidance, help with business plans, technical support, permits, and paperwork.”

Celebrating 40 Years
This year, the SADC celebrates its 40th anniversary. The Annual General Meeting will take place on June 12, in Quyon, followed by an anniversary dinner on September 12.

Photo – The team at SADC Pontiac: Rhonda Perry, Lise Lagarde, Sarah Graveline, Sarah Adam, Brittany Morin, Tracy Francoeur, and Amy Taylor. (Brittany Morin)

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

As part of a regional forum on the theme of food security under the 2024-2029 Government Action Plan to Combat Poverty and Social Exclusion, the Honourable Chantal Rouleau, Minister responsible for Social Solidarity and Community Action, came to Gatineau to announce the investment of $1.4 million over a five-year period for the Urban Agriculture Laboratory.

Before attending the forum, Rouleau agreed to answer a few questions related to the funding for the laboratory as well as the many investments related to food security in Quebec, and in Gatineau.

Q: How will the investment in the Urban Agriculture Laboratory and funding for social development contribute to the fight against poverty in Quebec and in Gatineau?

A: The goal is to increase food security projects funded by the Ministère de l’Emploi et de la Solidarité sociale by 30% over the next five years. I want this laboratory to be better known, because these are researchers who have developed a wealth of expertise in urban agriculture. These researchers will support and assist organizations, businesses and municipalities in carrying out agricultural projects. The idea is to bring food closer to people.

This will also help supply community kitchens. There is, for example, Moisson Outaouais, which is funded by the Alliance de l’Outaouais. The Alliance de l’Outaouais is a group of regional county municipalities (MRCs) in Gatineau or the sector that, based on consultation with the community, establishes the major priorities to work on. They will then call for tenders for the projects that are chosen by the organization. We provide funding to alliances that have the ability to deploy the projects. In addition, an amount of $5.2 million was distributed to the Outaouais Alliance to improve social development. We are very concerned about the state of the situation in the Outaouais region, but more particularly in Gatineau.

Q: The City of Gatineau is facing a major challenge in terms of homelessness. How do you think the government’s Action Plan to Combat Poverty and Social Exclusion will support this issue?

A: In total, the Plan represents more than $4.3 billion in investment, including $141 million dedicated to food security and $3.5 billion to housing and combating homelessness. This also applies to the Outaouais region. My colleague Lionel Carman implemented a $280 million interdepartmental plan to combat homelessness in 2022. The amount currently stands at $410 million in investment. Recently, I represented the government in an announcement where the federal government added an amount of $50 million. A lot of money has been invested to combat homelessness, but also in the construction of supervised housing to bring people into support, social reintegration and employment.

Q: You recently modernized the social assistance system. Can you tell me more about it?

A: One of the central elements of the government’s action plan to combat poverty and social exclusion is the modernization of the social assistance system. The law has not been amended in 20 years. We have taken into account the situation we are experiencing today, but also events that may occur that we could not have foreseen, such as the pandemic, the explosion in the cost of living and the recent announcement by our American neighbour. The goal is to better support people to enable them to reintegrate the labour market. To do this, we will also allow them to commit to obtaining their high school diploma. Today, despite what we hear, there are far fewer people on the social assistance system than there were 20 years ago. Since then, needs have changed. In particular, to better adapt the system, a 25% increase in the income supplement will be established.

Photo: Chantal Rouleau, Minister responsible for Social Solidarity and Community Action, during her interview (February 10, 2025) (MG) Photo: Mélissa Gélinas

Mélissa Gélinas
Local Journalism Initiative

SHAWVILLE – To support nursing students in the Pontiac region, on January 30, Promutuel Insurance donated more than $20,000 to the MacLachlan Family Scholarship Program.

The initiative began about a year ago with a significant donation from the MacLachlan family, aimed at creating a scholarship program for bilingual students from the Pontiac.

The foundation provides students with up to $5,000 per year to help cover expenses such as housing, fuel, and other costs. “There are many expenses when studying outside the region,” said Nicole Boucher-Larivière, director of the Pontiac Local Health Services Network. “This is a way to support young families who cannot afford to send their children to school in Gatineau,” she added.

During their studies and summer breaks, students are guaranteed work at the Pontiac Community Hospital or the CLSC in Mansfield. After graduating, they are required to work in the region for the same number of years they received the scholarship.

So far, four students have benefited from this financial aid. “We are working on providing them with summer jobs to support them throughout their studies,” said Boucher-Larivière.

Denis Larivière, president of Promutuel Vallée de l’Outaouais, explained how the donation came about: “During the holidays, I received a request from Nicole Boucher-Larivière explaining the program and I immediately saw it as a great cause. We know how difficult it is to recruit nurses for hospitals.”

Additionally, the MacLachlan Scholarship recently received an anonymous $40,000 donation, on top of the $20,000 from Promutuel. “This will allow us to increase the number of students we can support,” Boucher-Larivière noted. “We are currently reviewing applications and hope to increase the number of recipients to eight by next year.”

An announcement on the next group of scholarship recipients is expected in the coming weeks after applications are evaluated.

“We’re thrilled to see the community supporting innovative initiatives like this, especially in a time of nursing shortages,” Boucher-Larivière concluded. “We look forward to seeing the positive impact of this scholarship in the years ahead.”

Photo – L/R: Nicole Boucher-Larivière, director of the Pontiac Local Health Services Network; Denis Larivière, president of Promutuel Vallée de l’Outaouais; and Allan Dean, president of the Pontiac Community Hospital Foundation, holding the $20,000 cheque for the MacLachlan Family Scholarship Program. (CISSSO)

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

On February 4, 2025, the President of the United States, Donald Trump, announced that the entry into force of the imposition of 25% customs tariffs on Canadian imports would be delayed by one month. In Gatineau, the forestry, metal, steel, aluminum, agri-food and digital industries would be the most affected by this potential economic measure.

“Obviously, we quickly wondered what the impact would be on our local economy, and therefore on our businesses and on our workers,” said Gatineau Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette.

Although Canada obtained a 30-day reprieve, it is still difficult to anticipate the many economic impacts that such a measure will have. “We’re going to have to adjust,” said the mayor. “[…] obviously, there are some who have contracts, there are some who fear short-term liquidity challenges, which could actually lead to closures and job losses,” she added. However, the City of Gatineau has a relatively reassuring record regarding its purchases in the United States. “In 2023, there were 85% Quebec suppliers, 10% Ontario suppliers and 4.5% from the rest of Canada,” explained Marquis-Bissonnette. “There remained 0.5% of our purchases that were made internationally, including in the United States.”

“That said, we have identified 78 American suppliers in Gatineau for whom we will have to find Quebec, Canadian or even international alternatives in the event that customs tariffs are imposed,” the mayor mentioned.

In this regard, a watch (set of monitoring activities aimed at improving a company’s competitiveness) has been set up at the city level to support businesses and monitor the evolution of the situation. “Leadership is at the city level through the Economic Development Office, ID Gatineau and Edmond Leclerc, the President of the Economic Development Commission, who has also made several calls,” the mayor emphasized.

In addition, Export Outaouais and the Gatineau Chamber of Commerce will contribute to this action plan. “This is a great initiative, and I want to emphasize it to truly be able to prioritize, once again, our local businesses to the detriment of American businesses,” the mayor said.

A working committee will be set up, among other things. “The message I want to convey today is that we all have a responsibility and an ability to act in the face of the situation,” she emphasizes. “Obviously, there are things that fall under the responsibility of the levels of government, but I think we can all make an effort to buy local, to buy from Gatineau, Quebec, Canadian or even international companies,” she concludes.

Photo: Gatineau Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette during the press scrum on February 4, 2025 (MG) Photo: Screenshot

Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

The cold snap of the last few weeks and days has been felt throughout the region. This temperature, although unpleasant, is a whole different story for homeless people who are outside on the Guertin site.

Many of them live in tents or shelters, and it is very difficult for them to warm up properly when the mercury drops so drastically. “I think it was -32°C one morning recently and it just doesn’t feel right to be in a tent,” said Annie Castonguay, coordinator of the Guertin site and Sanscartier Park heat stations.

However, it is very difficult for them to rest in the heat station due to the crowds and the lack of beds. “People sleep either on the floor or on picnic tables,” says Castonguay. “Per shift, I can receive between 80 and 120 visits to the Guertin heat station.”

The result: people become more and more irritable, and this leads to conflicts that the workers must manage.

Consequently, on December 20, Castonguay made a request to the City of Gatineau and the CISSSO to obtain about 15 camp beds and a second heated trailer. According to the information gathered, the CISSSO was open to the request. However, no response was received from the city. “We realized that Steve Moran was not aware,” Castonguay said. “Yesterday, after sending him the request, Moran said he would look at the file.” (It should be noted that Steve Moran is also the homelessness commissioner.)

On a more positive note, some elected officials finally agreed to dip into their discretionary budgets to help alleviate the situation.

As for the population, they were also very generous. “There are people who come back every two or three days to bring things,” Castonguay stated. “We also had the MNA for Hull, Suzanne Tremblay, who made a lot of purchases for the homeless,” she continued.

In addition, the Patate Lou Lou company, located on Eardley Road in Aylmer, notably showed great generosity by offering the homeless at the Guertin site about 50 homemade meals each week for a period of eight weeks.

For those who wish to bring donations in the form of food or items, simply go directly to the heat stops at the Guertin site, which is open 24 hours a day, or to Sanscartier Park, which is open from 4 pm to 8 am. “We would need juice, bottles of water, snacks, socks, warm clothing and blankets,” said Castonguay.

Photo: From left to right: two Patate Lou Lou employees followed by the owner Laurent Lamirande and Jade Fahey, worker at the Réhabex heat stop at the Guertin site with the meal donation boxes (January 30). (MG) Photo: Courtesy of Annie Castonguay