#nelson sergerie

Gaspé: First steps toward the 500th anniversary celebrations in 2034

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Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

GASPÉ – With discussions underway since 2023, Gaspé is preparing to take an important first step in the preparations for the celebrations surrounding the 500th anniversary of Jacques Cartier’s arrival on July 24, 1534.

When asked on July 24, as the town celebrated its 491st anniversary, Mayor Daniel Côté provided an update.

“We are starting gradually. It’s still in its infancy. The goal is to set up a governance committee in 2026 to properly plan the 500th anniversary celebrations. There’s no question of waiting until the last minute,” noted the mayor, recalling that this is a historic day that marked the meeting of the peoples and the birth of French America.

“It’s an important symbolic day,” he added.

The next eight years will be used, in particular, to convince governments to invest in festivities “of national and international scope,” said Mr. Côte.

The Micmac Nation of Gespeg will play a major role.

“For us, it is absolutely essential that they be involved so that we can also tell the story from the Indigenous perspective and not just from the European perspective, as in our history books,” he added.

Preliminary steps have been taken with Saint-Malo, France, the starting point for Jacques Cartier, who claimed “the New World” in the name of the King of France when he arrived in Gaspé and symbolically planted a cross.

“We want everyone to benefit,” concluded the mayor.

As part of its strategic planning, the town has set its sights on this first chapter in the history of North America. The elected official does not want to repeat what happened in 2009 during the 475th anniversary, when the committee at the time had only one year to organize the festivities.
In his initial reflections, the mayor also considered hosting the Quebec Games in 2034.

Gaspé: First steps toward the 500th anniversary celebrations in 2034 Read More »

Quebec to revisit gasoline prices in Gaspé

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Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

GASPÉ—While the price of a litre of regular gasoline has gradually declined over the summer throughout the Gaspé Peninsula and elsewhere in Quebec, the Gaspé region has bucked the trend, with gasoline selling for $1.57 per litre for several weeks.

Meanwhile, gasoline sold for $1.49 in the Chandler region, just over 100 kilometres from Gaspé, on August 13. A litre was selling for around $1.50 in Baie-des-Chaleurs, $1.54 in Haute-Gaspésie and $1.51 in Matane and Rimouski.

This observation prompted the Member of the National Assembly (MNA) for Gaspé, Stéphane Sainte-Croix to question the profit margins charged by gas retailers in the region. According to data from the Régie de l’énergie, the profit margin was 19.3 cents on August 13 in Gaspé, compared to 13 cents in Baie-des-Chaleurs and 11.5 cents in Rocher-Percé.

The Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) government is looking into this issue. Stéphane Sainte-Croix is already discussing it with the Minister of Energy.

“We have already begun discussions on this issue in light of what we are seeing this summer. As it is well documented in the region, I am using this to make my case. Yes, we will take up the fight again in the future,” says the MNA.

When asked about the nearly 10-cent difference between Gaspé and Chandler, Mr. Sainte-Croix points out that the price floor was abolished to stimulate competition.

“Clearly, there is still a long way to go here,” says Mr. Sainte-Croix.

“In terms of profit margins, there may be an explanation behind this phenomenon that largely accounts for the difference between Gaspé and other areas of the Gaspé Peninsula,” he comments in a brief analysis.

Back in July, the mayor of Gaspé was unable to explain the price difference between Gaspé and Chandler.

“It’s a sign that there is a lack of competition,” said Daniel Côté, calling once again on the Competition Bureau to do its job.

Last September, the Competition Bureau concluded that there was no collusion in the Gaspé Peninsula to fix gasoline prices.

The bureau stated at the time that “combating anti-competitive behaviour in the gasoline sector is a priority for the Bureau. It is for this reason that our investigators visited several regions of Quebec to better understand how gasoline prices are determined. These visits took place in eastern Quebec, including the Gaspé Peninsula, on July 18, 2024.”

“To date, the information obtained has not allowed us to demonstrate the presence of anti-competitive activities in the retail gasoline sector,” the office noted, recalling that its role is to investigate price fixing and other anti-competitive behaviour.

As an enforcement agency, the office does not have the authority to regulate gasoline prices. That task falls to the Quebec government, the federal agency added.

Quebec to revisit gasoline prices in Gaspé Read More »

Heat: records and forest fires

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GASPÉ – Several records were set between August 10 and 13 during the heatwave that affected much of the Gaspé Peninsula.

On August 14, three records were set during hot and humid weather, while drought and lightning caused three forest fires in the Gaspé region.

According to Environment Canada, the thermometer reached 35.6 degrees Celsius in Gaspé, eclipsing the 33.3 degrees recorded in 1953. Meanwhile, 24.2 degrees were measured in Cap-d’Espoir, breaking the 23.3 degrees recorded in 2021. Cap-Chat also set a new record with 27.3 degrees, surpassing the previous record of 26.7 degrees set in 1935.

However, the passage of a cold front on the evening of August 13 brought more seasonal temperatures. The cold front was accompanied by thunderstorms, and lightning sparked three forest fires northwest of Gaspé that day.

Two of the fires occurred in the late afternoon in the Lac Ross and Sainte-Julienne colony areas, and the most recent one in Anse-à-Valleau in the early evening. The latter was still active on August 14.
“We had a few thunderstorms and lightning struck in some areas. SOPFEU teams will continue to monitor the area where lightning struck to ensure they can respond if other fires break out,” said SOPFEU spokesperson Isabelle Gariépy.

The other two fires have been contained or brought under control. In total, some 1.1 hectares were ravaged.

“We had a tanker plane working to contain the fires. Firefighters on the ground worked on some of these fires. Work with a helicopter was done on one of these fires,” added the spokesperson, who noted that the ground is very dry and suggested people not light fires in the forest.

The fire on August 12 was a recreational fire and is considered to be under control by SOPFEU. Its area is minimal.

It should be noted that before the rainfall on August 13, only five millimetres of rain had fallen in the Gaspé region since the beginning of August. On August 13, Gaspé issued a ban on open fires in the area until further notice. The flammability index dropped back down to low levels thanks to the rainfall and seasonal temperatures on August 14.

Several records

On August 12, four records were set. The hottest spot was Gaspé with 36.1 degrees, breaking the 32.2-degree mark set in 1940 and 1953. Carleton-sur-Mer followed closely behind with 36 degrees, beating the 31.7 degrees recorded in 2002. New Carlisle saw the mercury reach 35.5 degrees, crushing the 29.1 degrees recorded in 2002. Cap-d’Espoir recorded 28 degrees, breaking the 23.1 degrees mark set in 2002. Cap-Chat tied the record set in 1940 and 1944 with 26.1 degrees.

According to Environment Canada data, on August 11, the mercury climbed to 35.9 degrees in Carleton-sur-Mer, eclipsing the 32.8 degrees recorded in 1971. With the humidex index, it felt like 43 degrees. New Carlisle recorded 34.5 degrees—40 degrees with the humidex index—erasing the 31.1 degrees set in 1995. The mercury reached 28.7 degrees in Cap-d’Espoir, breaking the 26.2 degrees record set in 2005, with a humidex of 36 degrees. On August 10, Carleton-sur-Mer recorded 33.7 degrees and New Carlisle 32.5 degrees.

A heat wave – now referred to as an extreme heat event in meteorology – is defined as a period of at least three consecutive days during which the heat is particularly high and marked by a decrease in the temperature range between day and night.

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Inauguration of Demeure-Toi in Gaspé

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Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

GASPÉ – The Demeure-Toi project, a 12-unit building designed to accommodate 11 adults living with autism spectrum disorder, was inaugurated on August 12 in Gaspé.

The Minister responsible for Social Services, Lionel Carmant, attended the inauguration and said he was proud to see this unique project in the East come to fruition.

“We have projects like Véro and Louis (show host Véronique Cloutier and actor Louis Morissette), but they are more institutional activities. Here, we really have adults who do activities every day independently. The support we offer them can propel them toward something else,” believes the minister.

The organization’s president, Claudine Dupuis, mother of an autistic child, described the project as a dream come true.

“To help them develop their skills and independence. We want to take them further and have them live independently in an apartment in the town centre with minimal supervision. It’s every parent’s dream,” she says.

The first residents are expected to move in this October.

The organization has received $9 million in funding from the federal and Quebec governments, with additional support from the town of Gaspé. An annual contribution of $275,000 from the Quebec government is also planned.

A defeat that gives pause for thought

Meanwhile the CAQ’s stinging defeat on August 11 in Arthabaska is a clear message to the government, according to Gaspé Member of the National Assembly (MNA) Stéphane Sainte-Croix.
He points out that his party has implemented significant changes and that the government must remain committed to its plan.

The elected official believes he is delivering the goods in Gaspé and is proud of it, but he remains aware that at the national level, there are issues that irritate citizens.

The elected official says he is delivering results in Gaspé and takes pride in that, while recognizing that some national-level issues have irritated citizens.

During his summer tour of the riding, Sainte-Croix listened to his constituents and emphasized that the party must return to the centre-right.

“Budgetary discipline is a recurring theme. We must accept the critical choices we have to make in Quebec. We have made progress in terms of identity. I don’t think we have anything to be ashamed of. Economically, some issues have progressed more favourably than others. We have moved far to the left lately. I think we need to return to who we are, to our roots, and embrace that,” says the MNA.
Stéphane Sainte-Croix will be a candidate in the October 2026 election.

Inauguration of Demeure-Toi in Gaspé Read More »

A new student residence in Carleton-sur-Mer

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Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

CARLETON-SUR-MER – A new $7.7 million student residence was inaugurated on August 11 in Carleton-sur-Mer.

Owned by Cégep de la Gaspésie et des Îles and built on land that belonged to the Centre de services scolaire René-Lévesque as part of a partnership, 24 apartments will be available to students.

Nineteen apartments are reserved for CEGEP students, while the remaining five are reserved for the Centre de formation professionnelle l’Envol du Centre de services scolaire René-Lévesque.
The new residence is located about half-a-kilometre from the Carleton-sur-Mer campus and just across the street from the ENVOL trade school.

“We are aware of the housing shortage in the Gaspé Peninsula, particularly in Carleton-sur-Mer. We are convinced that there were students who had to put their studies on hold because they couldn’t find housing. This is a breath of fresh air for the area,” says CEGEP director Yolaine Arseneau.

She adds that the residence supports recruitment efforts. “We recruit internationally, outside the Gaspé Peninsula, and have partnerships with urban CEGEPs for student mobility. Offering accommodation close to campus is a positive factor for the CEGEP’s development,” she says.

The apartments rent for $695 per month, including all services such as internet and air conditioning.
“Of course, the cost may come as a surprise. These are beautiful apartments with a closed bedroom, an open-plan kitchen and living room, and a bathroom. Since it is owned by the CEGEP and funded by the Ministry of Higher Education, there is an operating budget. Of course, this has an impact on the cost charged to students,” explains the executive director.

The project was completed in 10 months, with only exterior finishing work remaining. The $7.7-million budget was respected, with Quebec covering 75 per cent of the construction cost.

Initially, the CEGEP and the school service centre each had their own student residence projects. “For the moment, we think it will meet the need. We’ll see what happens next,” said Ms. Arseneau. Of the 24 units, 19 are earmarked for CEGEP students and five for ENVOL ones.

A new student residence in Carleton-sur-Mer Read More »

Police cadet from Gaspé revives woman in Quebec City

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Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

GASPÉ – A cadet with the Sûreté du Québec, Mikaël Denis, 21, from Gaspé, helped revive a woman who had lost consciousness at Montmorency Falls Park in Quebec City.

The incident occurred on July 12 on the footbridge overlooking the falls, located on the border between Quebec City and Boischatel.

Mr. Denis, along with his 19-year-old colleague, Maude Fournier, were on preventive patrol in public areas as part of their duties.

“Around 7 p.m., we went to Montmorency Falls Park to do some surveillance. We work on the Boischatel side and arrived on the east side. We got on the footbridge and people on the west side were waving to get our attention. That’s when we moved toward them to see what was going on and saw a woman on the ground,” the cadet explains.

The police recruit immediately sprang into action. “We made space around the victim, and I personally leaned over to check her vital signs and level of consciousness. The woman had a very weak pulse and was completely unconscious. We put her in the recovery position,” continues Mr. Denis.

As luck would have it, a doctor happened to be at the scene. “He came to help me, and on the phone, dispatch asked us to perform CPR, so the doctor and I took turns until the paramedics took over,” says the cadet.

“I did what I could. We did our best, and everyone was satisfied,” Mr. Denis says afterward.
During his training, he received emergency first aid training. “It’s a course we take in college, and that’s what helped me respond. The symptoms were something we had seen during training. It allowed me to stay in control of the situation,” explains the recruit.

This event reaffirmed Mr. Denis’ career choice. Mr. Denis is studying in the two-year accelerated program in Police Techniques at Cégep Garneau in Quebec City. He will begin his final year at CEGEP in August and will complete his training at the École nationale de police de Nicolet.
The future officer would like to pursue his career in Gaspé or at least in the Gaspé Peninsula, though assignments with the Sûreté du Québec are determined by the organization.

Police cadet from Gaspé revives woman in Quebec City Read More »

Percé: No more access to Anse du Nord

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Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

Nelson Sergerie
PERCÉ – The staircase at the end of Biard Street in Percé, which allowed tourists to descend to Anse du Nord beach, is no longer accessible.

The infrastructure will not be rebuilt after falling victim to coastal erosion.
The town had to intervene every fall. “It wasn’t working anymore,” says the Mayor or Percé Daniel Leboeuf.

Resident Lise Bourget is asking the town to at least take action to make the area more welcoming.
“Last year, they decided not to replace it, but they could remove the remains of the facilities, I think. It’s really ugly for tourists who come to admire the Rock, and it seems very dangerous to me because people still go down there,” she explains.

The town is working on a new concept

“The plan is to install an observation platform. Tourists will still be able to see Anse du Nord. Given the erosion that is occurring, it is not feasible to rebuild a staircase in the short term,” explains the mayor.

There had been plans to install an aluminum structure for the descent that would have better withstood the onslaught of the sea.

“The slope is too eroded. We will not invest tens of thousands of dollars until it is safe,” saYS Mr. Leboeuf.

Such infrastructure could be reinstated if the Department of Public Safety intervenes to protect the area, as the town has been requesting for several years.

“We’ll see. Our request for protective work for the entire Anse du Nord is still pending with the Department of Public Safety. A project has been submitted. Studies are still being conducted. We hope that this part of the village will be protected,” says the mayor.

The request is being made under the disaster prevention program. The protection of Anse du Nord is an important issue: nearly 20 homes and businesses in this area are vulnerable. There is also the fire station and the town’s filtration plant at the end of the cove. If there were to be too much damage on this side, it would jeopardize the safety of the town.

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Water and sewer: Murdochville mayor concerned

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Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

MURDOCHVILLE – For once, the mayor of Murdochville is openly expressing concern about the condition of the town’s aging water and sewer infrastructure, which is now more than 60 years old.
Driving through the streets, one can see areas where the pavement has bulged due to pipes running too close to the asphalt, creating visible bumps.

“We no longer have a choice. We can’t wait any longer. The mining company hasn’t arrived yet. It could become dangerous. It no longer makes sense,” notes Mayor Délisca Ritchie Roussy, adding that the town cannot afford to wait another ten years.

A study conducted in 2014 estimated it would cost $38 million to rebuild all the infrastructure, originally designed for a population of 5,000.

“We may be able to reduce the bill, but it wouldn’t be done properly,” says the mayor, who believes that the bill has certainly increased due to inflation and overheating in the construction industry.
“It’s as if we’re always chasing our tails. The government is facing increasing financial difficulties. We’re not the only ones who need help,” the mayor continues.

Although Osisko, the company working to relaunch Mines Gaspé, has promised to help with infrastructure, the mayor does not want to rely solely on them.

“We don’t approach them by always asking for money. They are nice people, after all. We don’t want to become beggars. The mining company hasn’t arrived yet,” says the elected official.
Fortunately, the town’s network is not experiencing major water losses and is not currently at critical risk.

“It was a beautiful town with beautiful infrastructure at the time, but we need government assistance. I’ve complained about this many times on the air, but no one has ever come to our rescue,” laments Ms. Ritchie Roussy, who arrived in Murdochville in 1972.

Since the closure of the underground mine and smelter, respectively in 1999 and 2002, the town has struggled to move forward.

“We were in a state of decay at the time. And today, things are no better,” she says, though she insists she’s not being defeatist.

“I’m impatient about everything that concerns us. I’d like my turn to come as soon as possible,” she says, noting that a possible revival of the mine will not happen before 2030.

She wants the issue to be resolved quickly so that she can deal with the influx of people who will return to live in her community.

“We’re behind schedule! We’re behind the times! People are repairing their homes, but we’re no longer there. We had sent several apartment blocks to Gaspé, and we no longer have them. We’ll have 1,000 workers during construction, and they’ll need to settle in,” the mayor continues.
“It worries me, never mind, Ms. Roussy. I rarely say this to my people, and it worries me because we don’t want to lose face. Osisko is a good company, but they won’t pay for everything, and that’s normal too!” concludes the mayor.

Water and sewer: Murdochville mayor concerned Read More »

Vehicles on the beach: Gaspé cannot intervene

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Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

GASPÉ – Theoretically, the Town of Gaspé cannot prohibit motor vehicles from driving on local beaches.

In response to concerns about the presence of a few 4x4s on Douglastown Beach, the Town explained prior to July 23 that a provincial regulation permits fishermen to drive in these areas, creating a regulatory grey zone that limits municipal intervention.

However, the Town notes that barriers are installed when abuse is observed.

Both the Sûreté du Québec and municipal inspectors have spoken with some campers on the beaches to remind them that camping is prohibited.

The Town is urging those who still venture into these areas to stay on designated trails in order to avoid damaging these fragile ecosystems.

Sand couch grass is being planted this year in both Haldimand and Douglastown to protect the shoreline.

However, the context changed on July 25 when the Town of Gaspé issued an update about the situation. The message on the Town’s Facebook page read as follows.

ZERO TOLERANCE ON OUR BEACHES

In response to recent disturbances and blatant disregard for the rules—especially at Douglastown Beach—the Town of Gaspé is tightening controls.

We even discovered that the barrier installed in Douglastown for several years (used in case of overcrowding and left open this year) was removed in the past few days. This is a regrettable act of vandalism.

After an urgent meeting with our partners from the Sûreté du Québec and the Mi’gmaq Nation of Gespeg, a joint decision was made: the awareness period is over and it is not enough.

Effective immediately, SQ officers and our municipal inspectors will issue tickets for any infractions of the regulations.

To be perfectly clear, here’s a reminder of the key prohibitions:

NO CAMPING

Our beaches are not campgrounds. Fines ranging from $200 to $2,000 apply under our bylaw for repeat offenders. For nature stays, campsites are available at official campgrounds in Greater Gaspé: https://zurl.co/X HCZc

NO VEHICLES ON THE SAND

Motorized traffic destroys beach grass, the plant that holds our beaches together and protects them from erosion. This is a fragile environment, not a highway. While some exceptions are allowed under provincial regulations, tickets may be issued outside of those cases.

NO LITTERING

The rule is simple: take back everything you brought with you. Leave the area cleaner than you found it.

These rules are not meant to bother you but to PROTECT our natural heritage. We count on the cooperation of residents and visitors alike to enjoy our beaches responsibly. Thank you for helping preserve the unique beauty of Gaspé.

Vehicles on the beach: Gaspé cannot intervene Read More »

Gasoline: A difference that the mayor of Gaspé cannot explain

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Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

GASPÉ – The mayor of Gaspé says he cannot explain the eight-cent-per-litre difference in gasoline prices between his town and nearby Chandler following a drop in prices at the pump on July 17 in the area between Chandler and Cap-d’Espoir.

In that region, a litre of regular gasoline was selling for $1.47, while in Gaspé, no change had been observed, with the price still at $1.57 as of July 23.

“It’s inexplicable to have an eight-cent difference between Gaspé and Chandler, and it’s just as inexplicable that everyone changed their prices at practically the same time,” said the mayor of Gaspé Daniel Côté.

The price drop spread quickly through the Rocher-Percé MRC on July 17.

According to data from the Régie de l’énergie, as of July 21, retailers in that MRC were earning an average profit margin of 11.3 cents per litre—similar to last year’s average.

In contrast, retailers in Gaspé were charging a 19-cent margin, compared to an average of around 12 cents last year.

“This is a sign that there is a lack of competition. That’s why we’ve been calling on the Competition Bureau for years. We are asking them once again to do their job and demonstrate that there is a lack of competition, which is causing all sorts of abnormal, even absurd things to happen, and it is ordinary people who are paying the price,” commented the mayor.

Last September, the Competition Bureau concluded that there was no collusion in the Gaspé Peninsula to fix gasoline prices.

At the time, the bureau stated that “combating anti-competitive behaviour in the gasoline sector is a priority for the Bureau. It is for this reason that our investigators visited several regions of Quebec to better understand how gasoline prices are determined. These visits took place in eastern Quebec, including the Gaspé Peninsula, on July 18, 2024.”

“To date, the information obtained has not allowed us to demonstrate the presence of anti-competitive activities in the retail gasoline sector,” the Bureau added, reiterating that its role is to investigate price-fixing and other anti-competitive practices.

As an enforcement agency, the Bureau does not have the authority to regulate gasoline prices. This falls under provincial jurisdiction, the federal agency emphasized.

Since the Quebec government abolished the minimum price floor, no price adjustment has been observed in Gaspé, which continues to rank among the most expensive sectors in the province for gasoline.

Only the regions of Northern Quebec and the Magdalen Islands have higher prices than Gaspé.
Some gas stations in Gaspé have adopted similar lower prices, but the trend is far from widespread.

Gasoline: A difference that the mayor of Gaspé cannot explain Read More »

Trump’s shadow still looms over supply management

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Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

CARLETON-SUR-MER – Canadian dairy farmers remain concerned about the potential impact of future trade talks with the United States, despite the fact that supply management is now protected by law in Canada.

The regional president of Quebec Milk Producers, Normand Barriault, recently attended a national conference in Toronto where this issue was discussed in the context of the trade war with our southern neighbours, led by President Donald Trump.

“There are always threats. We talk about negotiations, but there are no negotiations to be had with him. He will impose what he wants. If he doesn’t get what he wants, he’s a big spoiled baby and he’ll cry about it anyway. No matter what Mark Carney (the Prime Minister of Canada) is willing to leave on the table, he’ll never be satisfied,” says the dairy farmer from Carleton-sur-Mer.

But one fact that President Trump does not mention is revealing.

“The Americans export more to us than we export to them. Trump will never say this publicly, but there are many more American products on our shelves or in processing than we export with our specialty cheese products, which American restaurateurs want because they love them,” says Mr. Barriault.

Even when access is granted through agreements, Barriault notes that it is often limited. He gives the example of whole milk from Europe, which is technically permitted for import but has a short shelf life, making it difficult to export overseas.

“He’s a hyper-protectionist. It’s almost like playing ‘my daddy’s bigger than yours,’” says the regional president.

The impact of weather on production

Mother Nature’s capricious weather makes summer production difficult, even though producers remain optimistic and believe that the season will still be a good one.

“We thought we were going to have a very good year. We had an early spring with little snow to melt, but Mother Nature finally gave us a late and wet spring, which caused a delay between sowing and the first hay cut. It’s been a bit of a turbulent year,” notes Normand Barriault.

The combination of heavy showers every three days, humid heat, and then cold weather is causing the plants to grow quickly. “For grains and corn, we’re going to have variable yields because the mounds will be great, but in the gullies, the yield will be lower,” he notes, due to water accumulation in the lowlands.

The first hay harvest was generous, and the second, which is just around the corner, should also produce a very good yield. “It could be a record year in terms of volume, but we’ll have to see about the quality,” says Mr. Barriault.

A third harvest could be possible under current conditions. However, given the strong yields from the first two cuts, a third may not be necessary later in the season.

It remains difficult to predict how the rest of the summer will unfold, as everything depends on Mother Nature. “We’re still expecting a good season,” he concludes.

Trump’s shadow still looms over supply management Read More »

The three newly elected officials of Gespeg sworn in

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Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

GASPÉ – The three new members of the Band Council of the Micmac Nation of Gespeg have expressed their commitment to working collaboratively with the other elected officials, following their swearing-in ceremony on July 17.

Mark Sinnett, Placide Jeannotte, and Linda Jean were elected in a by-election held on July 13 to fill vacant council positions.

All three are members of the Elders’ Circle, which had contested the results of last fall’s election, arguing that it failed to respect the Nation’s customs and traditions.

“We have been given a mandate and the trust of our members, who have told us that they want us to work together. It is in this spirit that we will begin and continue our mandate,” said Linda Jean, who was designated to speak on behalf of the three elected officials.

Among their priorities are becoming familiar with key issues and working for the well-being of the community.

Following the September 2023 election, the Elders called for a review of the Electoral Code.
“This is a priority for everyone at the table. There are things to correct, look at, and discuss together,” said Ms. Jean.

At one point, the Elders even considered legal action.

“The key words in our campaign were communication and working together. Yes, the courts are there, but to be able to make concrete decisions, it’s better to be on the inside,” said Ms. Jean.
Since the next election isn’t scheduled until September 2028, there is time to reach a consensus on potential reforms.

In October, the Elders launched a petition to try to invalidate the results of the September election. Their primary concern was that the notice of candidacy and election was sent only by email to voting members, rather than by mail, which is the community’s customary method of communication.
They argued that this had caused “serious harm to our population” by depriving many of their right to vote.

The petition collected 375 signatures.

The current interpretation of the Electoral Code leaves much room for ambiguity and does not address all scenarios—particularly when contentious situations arise, as they did in the last election, which resulted in a tie between two candidates.

The petition was rejected by the sitting Council, which ruled that the matter fell under the jurisdiction of the Chief Electoral Officer.

As a result of the decision, the candidate who finished third in the election ultimately became Chief.
After the initial petition, a second was launched in January, this time calling for the complete removal of the Council. However, that request went unanswered.

The three newly elected officials of Gespeg sworn in Read More »

Vandalism in Bonaventure

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Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

BONAVENTURE – Following recent incidents in Chandler, the Town of Bonaventure has also had to deal with acts of vandalism on its territory in recent days.

The Town issued a statement on July 22 following several incidents, particularly in Louisbourg Park, noting that the acts are “disturbing and compromise the safety, beauty, and well-being of our public spaces.”

The Town specifically mentioned the intentional destruction of street furniture and municipal infrastructure, which caused significant damage and endangered safety; the illegal use of motorcycles on municipal property, including furniture such as benches and picnic tables; dangerous motorcycle riding on sports fields, causing significant damage to surfaces and endangering users; fires in restrooms and the dumping of paper, compromising cleanliness and safety; and the deliberate removal of flowers, ornamental plants, and signage from our streets, green spaces, and other locations.

“It’s very unfortunate, but every year, we are victims of vandalism. This year, it’s small motorcycles in particular that are causing damage. We arrive in the morning and it’s damaged by motorcycles,” laments Director General André Pineault.

In 2024, vandalism cost between $4,000 and $5,000, a bill that must be paid by taxpayers.
“Beyond the cost of replacing property, there are staff who are needed to make repairs and clean up. It’s unpleasant for citizens who want to use the facilities because everything has been dirtied, and our employees can’t clean up after every act of vandalism at all hours of the day and night. It’s really a shame,” notes the director general.

Surveillance cameras are in place at Louisbourg Park, and evidence has been collected in various ways.

“They have been in place since this spring. We have images, and they have been handed over to the police,” says Mr. Pineault.

The Town reminds everyone involved that they are liable to legal sanctions, including fines, official complaints, and even prosecution.

In the event of a repeat offence, the Town reserves the right to take legal action without prior notice.

Vandalism in Bonaventure Read More »

Beach replenishment work in Maria

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

MARIA – Three months after awarding a $25.7 million contract to Bélugas Construction of Boisbriand, beach replenishment work to protect Maria from erosion and coastal flooding is progressing well.

Trains and trucks are working in coordinated fashion to carry out this vast project, which covers Route 132 between the municipal beach and the post office, and protects the commercial area between the IGA market and the Lady Maria residence over a distance of 2.4 kilometres.

“It’s going very well. We are very satisfied. The response has been good. The contractors are very competent. It’s nice to collaborate on such a large project and have little impact on the municipality,” notes municipal liaison officer Luce Plourde.

The project includes research, characterization, transportation and installation of granular materials, extension of pipes, development of storm sewer outlets, installation of storm sewer manholes and various other work.

Few complaints have been made to the municipality so far.

“Using the train as the main means of transportation helps. Of course, there are trucks between the railroad tracks and the beach, but people are patient, and we hope they will remain so,” says Ms. Plourde.

The use of the railroad tracks to transport the necessary equipment is still in its early stages.
“It’s going very well so far. We were making two train trips a day. On July 22, there were three. Ultimately, the goal is to get to four trips a day,” she says.

Two types of railcars are used: air dump railcars and hopper railcars that unload underneath, with the material being loaded in trucks by conveyors. From there, the trucks reach the shore where they unload the material.

“Residents and tourists are very happy with this option because it frees Route 132 from a lot of trucks,” the liaison officer continues.

The work is arousing curiosity. “People are venturing out to see what’s happening on the beach. But they must respect the measures in place, because a construction site is still quite dangerous. They should stay away from anything orange,” explains Ms. Plourde.

The municipality is working to develop access points to better view the work, particularly at Vieux-Quai Park.

A security perimeter is also being established near the train unloading area on Hirondelles Street to allow curious onlookers to view the operations.

The current construction zone is located around Town Hall, Vieux-Quai Park and the central sector. “Traffic is flowing smoothly,” says Ms. Plourde.

Regular rainfall is helping to reduce dust levels. Approximately 500,000 tons of material are required to replenish the beach.

In addition, experts concluded on May 7, that 50 buildings in the Pointe Verte sector are now under imminent threat from erosion and coastal flooding and constitute an imminent disaster.

A maximum of $385,000 per property is being granted for demolition or relocation. Those who choose to stay will still be entitled to municipal services. People have up to a year and a half to make their decision.

Every Friday, the municipality will publish a summary of the week’s work and upcoming work on social media.

A dedicated page will also be available on the municipality’s website.

Beach replenishment work in Maria Read More »

Salmon fishing: Up to $1.3 million for Gesgapegiag

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

Nelson Sergerie, LJI Jounalist

GASPÉ – The Micmac Nation of Gesgapegiag could receive up to $1.3 million under an agreement reached with the Quebec government allowing a partial resumption of net salmon fishing in June.
According to a decree published in the Official Gazette on July 2, the amount will be paid during the 2025-2026 fiscal year.

This sum stems from the agreement reached on October 22, 2024, which was automatically renewed for one year on April 1, 2025, according to the decree.

The announcement was made in a press release on June 10. In that press release, Quebec indicated at the time that the agreement allowed certain salmon fishing activities to resume on the Cascapedia River, in accordance with the terms of the community fishing license.

Species conservation was at the heart of the discussions, as indicated by Minister Ian Lafrenière, responsible for Relations with First Nations, during a May visit to the Gaspé Peninsula.

Net fishing is a traditional cultural practice for the Mi’gmaq. In addition to species conservation, ensuring the transmission of knowledge to younger generations was also a key concern.
Fishing activities took place on June 18, 19, and 20.

Discussions for a multi-year agreement are ongoing and could address predictability for all users of the river.

In June 2024, at least one net was spotted on the Grand Cascapedia River. The two parties had been in dispute since the end of a 16-year agreement on March 31, 2024, under which no nets were used to catch salmon.

At the time, the Quebec government informed Gesgapegiag that it would no longer enter into individual compensation agreements, proposing instead to pay sums to create jobs and protect and conserve salmon. That proposal was rejected by the community.

In the absence of an agreement, there were no longer any restrictions on net fishing, according to the memo sent to Gesgapegiag Nation members.

However, in the days that followed, a new agreement was reached. The Quebec government agreed to pay compensation in exchange for refraining from net fishing, and the nets were subsequently removed.

Salmon fishing: Up to $1.3 million for Gesgapegiag Read More »

11 major infrastructure projects in Gaspésie

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

Nelson Sergerie, LJI Jounalist

GASPÉ – Eleven construction sites are currently active in the Gaspé region as part of the Quebec Infrastructure Strategy.

This information comes from a new interactive map put online by Quebec City on June 19. However, some of the map’s elements are questionable.

For example, the map shows that section 2 of the rail line between Caplan and Port-Daniel-Gascons is in service, even though over the third week of June, the Société du chemin de fer de la Gaspésie indicated that a bridge in Caplan had not yet been completed.

Rehabilitation of this section has now cost $299.7 million.

Section 3, on the other hand, is in the planning stage, with the budget to be announced once the project is formally approved.

Other transportation projects include the $27.3 million Petit Pabos river bridge in Chandler and theplanned refurbishment of the Matapédia bridge.

In terms of public buildings, the Maison des aînés in Chandler ($75.6 million), the Carrefour de l’innovation des pêches in Grande-Rivière ($31.2 million) and the English elementary-secondary school in New Carlisle ($30.3 million) are on the agenda.

Finally, there are two social and collective housing projects in the planning phase: the 84-apartment Havre district in Gaspé and the 36-apartment Villa Mgr Bourdages in Sainte-Anne-des-Monts.
Notably absent from the interactive map is the emergency and intensive care renovations project at the Maria hospital.

11 major infrastructure projects in Gaspésie Read More »

Formal board of directors for Centre artistique de Cap-aux-Os

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Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

GASPÉ – The Centre artistique de Cap-aux-Os now has a formal board of directors since June 17, which will enable the project to convert the village church into a creative venue to be finalized.
Six people have been appointed to the board, with a seventh member to be named soon.

“We were a provisional committee since 2021, when we created it to have a registered committee to solicit bids, sign contracts with funders. We were a committee of what I called founding members registered as a non-profit organization. As soon as we had confirmation from all the funders, we called a special meeting to elect the directors,” says president Daniel Bernier.

The project involves transforming the village’s former church into a modern, dynamic and inclusive arts centre.

The Centre artistique will be a creative hub dedicated to artists, and will become Gaspé’s first Maison de la culture.

This emblematic site, once the heart of the community, will regain its role as a gathering place thanks to a complete renovation that respects its heritage while embracing innovation.

Planned renovations include replacement of doors and windows, improved insulation, redesigned interior cladding and new staircases.

At the same time, special attention will be paid to universal accessibility: adapted toilets, a barrier-free entrance and modernized exterior staircases will be integrated to ensure that this space is truly open to all.

The installation of an artesian well, a septic tank and the replacement of oil heating with a more ecological option also mark the project’s commitment to sustainability and environmental standards.
A crowdfunding campaign has been launched to encourage community participation, with a target of $30,000.

“Right now, it’s difficult. We’re still optimistic. We’re going to appeal to the public because right now, we’re only 11% of the way to our goal. We’ve got a long way to go, but we’re confident,” says Mr. Bernier.

The total project was estimated in 2022 at $4.1 million.

“Exterior work is starting and we’re in the plans and specifications process to receive them with estimates for the construction vacations or right after. This would allow us to go to tender around the end of August for interior work during the fall, winter and early spring,” says Mr. Bernier.

If all goes according to plan, the facility is expected to open in May 2026.

Funding includes $1.6 million from the federal government, $2 million from the provincial government, $155,000 from the Town of Gaspé and $50,000 from the MRC de la Côte-de-Gaspé.

Formal board of directors for Centre artistique de Cap-aux-Os Read More »

New framework for the Rural Areas Fund penalizes Gaspésie

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

CARLETON-SUR-MER – The terms and conditions of the Rural Areas Fund are now known, and the Table des préfets de la Gaspésie deplores the fact that the rules have been changed, which will ultimately harm the region’s development.

The most significant irritant is the limitation of resources dedicated to MRC staff who supported the community in developing projects. Previously, up to 20% of the budget could be used to pay salaries. The percentage is now limited to 5%.

“What this means is that we can no longer pay a large portion of our employees with these budgets. We will have to turn to municipalities for contributions,” said Mathieu Lapointe, president of the Table of préfects.

Another major change involves the funding disbursement schedule.

“The disbursement is now a three-year agreement. Initially, we will receive 30% of the amount and 70% at the end of the three years. The MRCs will have to advance the amounts through lines of credit or credit facilities. It will be the same for the projects we support. We will have to ask organizations to financially support the MRC’s contribution for the duration of the project,” explains Mr. Lapointe.

The impact will be significant, particularly for community organizations.

“We can provide up to $150,000 to support a project. If we tell the organization that we will give them $150,000 but that they will receive 30% of the funds upon signing and 70% when the project is completed, we are putting significant pressure on these organizations, which may not have the financial cushion to absorb these amounts. This will lead to several issues,” says the president.
The operation of organizations can no longer be supported through the Rural Areas Fund.

“This also limits our interventions in the community and weakens organizations,” continues Mr. Lapointe, who notes that the amounts have already been agreed upon, with each MRC receiving approximately $1 million per year.

Organizations that may no longer be eligible for support include Stratégie Vivre en Gaspésie, Place aux jeunes, and local chambers of commerce.

“With the new terms and conditions, based on the information we have, we will no longer be able to support them,” said Mr. Lapointe, who is also the prefect of the Avignon MRC.

He questioned the Quebec government’s decision to restrict the fund’s use, which had previously been praised for its agility and flexibility.

Mr. Lapointe believes that the Gaspésie is paying for other regions that have not managed their budgets well.

“That’s what we understand from these decisions, that there may have been abuse in certain regions. That is not the case for us. What we are saying to the ministry is that if regions or MRCs have not complied with the old criteria, enforce them and don’t crack down on those who did follow the rules,” says Mr. Lapointe, who remains hopeful that he can convince the Quebec government to change things.

The first signs of this change were received last December for this fund, which is the MRCs’ main development tool.

At the time, Mr. Lapointe even discussed the issue with the Ministry of Municipal Affairs, demanding that the fund remain unchanged.

New framework for the Rural Areas Fund penalizes Gaspésie Read More »

Dubé health care reform not acceptable to nurses

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

SAINT-SIMÉON – The Dubé health care reform is simply not acceptable to the nursing staff at the CISSS de la Gaspésie.

This is the finding of a survey conducted by Léger on behalf of the Fédération de la santé du Québec de la Centrale des syndicats du Québec (CSQ), to which the Syndicat des infirmières, infirmières auxiliaires et inhalothérapeutes de l’Est du Québec (SIIIEQ) is affiliated.

According to the union, 55% of SIIIEQ members hold a negative opinion of the reform, while only 15% view it positively. An additional 30% either had no opinion or declined to answer.

“The first effects of this reform, given that Santé Québec came into effect on December 1, 2024, have been budget restrictions, staff cuts, and staff not being replaced. This has a direct impact on the workload,” says SIIIEQ president Pier-Luc Bujold.

He adds that the administrative burden has also increased significantly.

“It’s like building a ship in the middle of a storm. There are many inconsistencies and a lack of information. People are running around much more to get answers to their questions. Workers do not have much confidence in this reform,” adds Mr. Bujold.

“What we’re hearing on the ground is not cheerful or desirable. Greater centralization means that decisions are more disconnected from the reality on the ground. It achieves the government’s objectives, but does it serve Quebecers?” asks the president.

He also points to promises made by the CAQ government when it was elected in 2018, including a family doctor for every Quebecer and reduced emergency room wait times.

“We are waiting for the positive effects, but they are not materializing on the ground,” he notes.
When asked to rate the CAQ government’s management of health care since 2018, the president is clear.

“It’s difficult to give a rating. There are many inconsistencies. It would not pass,” the president assesses.

Dubé health care reform not acceptable to nurses Read More »

Agreement reached for financing of Demeure Toi in Gaspé

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

GASPÉ – The president of the Demeure Toi organization in Gaspé is satisfied with the agreement reached with the CISSS de la Gaspésie.

On July 15, the organization announced that, following two weeks of discussions with the regional health authority, it had secured $275,000 per year in funding for the next three years.

“We discussed each other’s understanding and perception of the client profile. We realized that we had a common understanding of the needs of this clientele,” says president Claudine Dupuis.
The agreement will be re-evaluated in three years.

“We have no guarantees, but I remain very confident that with the collaboration we have with the CISSS, everything will go smoothly,” Ms Dupuis adds.

The $8.9 million building is scheduled to be delivered at the end of July, with interior work to follow in preparation for welcoming the first tenants, people living with autism, by mid-September. Of the 11 spots available, a few remain open.

Hiring of staff will begin shortly, although the organization has not yet finalized its operating budget. Calculations are still underway.

An open house is planned, possibly in August, to allow the public to visit the facility.

Earlier this year, a dispute over funding had led Demeure Toi to consider delaying the opening of the building. At the time, the organization cited a promised $318,000 in funding from the Quebec government, while the CISSS was offering only $50,000.

Agreement reached for financing of Demeure Toi in Gaspé Read More »

Maria Hospital: another delay for preliminary studies

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

MARIA – The preliminary studies on the mechanical infrastructure of the Maria hospital centre, an essential first step towards building a new emergency room and intensive care unit, have been delayed again. The report, originally expected by the end of June, is now projected for September.

According to the CISSS de la Gaspésie, additional surveys and drilling are required before the study can be submitted. The delay follows budgetary concerns that had already caused the contract to be suspended last fall, although it was eventually relaunched during the winter.

The authorized studies are technical in nature, focusing on the facility’s electromechanical, structural, and civil components. Among other things, the study, conducted by the firm CIMA+, aims to determine whether: the electrical system is powerful enough to accommodate the expansion, and whether the water and sewer systems need to be adjusted to accommodate the expansion.

In September 2023, the CISSS board of directors increased pressure on the Quebec government to include the project in the 2024 Quebec Infrastructure Plan (PQI).

The resolution adopted by the board of directors and its chair to take steps to ensure that the Maria emergency project was included in the PQI and to take steps to obtain strategic support for the project to be recognized as a regional priority.

The absence of the project from the PQI when the 2024 budget was tabled in March prompted strong reactions from regional elected officials and the nurses’ union.

However, in the March 2025 budget, one line mentioned the Maria hospital in the PQI.
The document stated that “the Ministry of Health and Social Services will submit requests for approval by the government over the next year for new major projects, namely the Drummondville and Maria hospitals and phase 3 of the program to add places in MDAAs (seniors’ homes and alternatives).”

The project, which had been on the table since 2018, was granted “clinical relevance” status in the fall of 2022, meaning that the Ministry of Health recognized the need.

The Clinical and Real Estate Master Plan already showed in the spring of 2022 that the hospital, built in 1952, was no longer suited to modern practices, especially the emergency room, where the last renovations date back to 1972.

In June 2018, the CISSS de la Gaspésie adopted a resolution to move forward with a new construction to replace the current facility, a scenario that dates back even before the creation of the CISSS.

In the meantime, the modernization of the emergency room was prioritized.

For comparison, the new emergency room and intensive care unit at Gaspé Hospital—opened in 2021 in a newly connected building, cost $31.7 million.

No financial results before September

The CISSS de la Gaspésie’s financial results for the last fiscal year, which ended March 31, will not be available before September.

The network has submitted its final financial data to Santé Québec and is still awaiting official confirmation. The documents must first be tabled in the National Assembly, which resumes on September 16.

In an email, the CISSS stated that efforts are underway to meet the $30 million savings target for the 2025–2026 fiscal year, based on a total operating budget of $560 million.

However, CEO Martin Pelletier recently acknowledged that independent labour alone accounts for $20 million of the projected $30 million deficit.

Maria Hospital: another delay for preliminary studies Read More »

Discretionary budget: Gaspé adjusts its approach

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

GASPÉ – The Town of Gaspé has revised the process surrounding elected officials’ discretionary budgets, following a decision by the Quebec Municipal Commission concerning the City of Gatineau.

The commission had reviewed how Gatineau handled its discretionary funds after receiving a complaint and, in June, concluded that the Gatineau municipality had exceeded the roles and responsibilities defined by the provincial legislature for council members. It also found that the accumulation of funds for discretionary use did not comply with the legal framework.

Gaspé maintains that its own practices are in line with regulations.

“We believe so. Our legal opinions point in that direction. We don’t operate in the same way as Gatineau. In the end, the result may be similar,” said Mayor Daniel Côté.

In Gaspé, the procedures are clearly defined. The council authorizes discretionary funds through a borrowing bylaw, which can ultimately lead to a referendum. This is formalized at the January council meeting following the presentation of the December budget.

“All of this is planned and made public in budget reserves, in accordance with the regulations. It’s not the same as in Gatineau, where it was directly included in the city’s operating budget,” he continues.
Going forward, the town of Gaspé will adopt specific resolutions identifying how and where discretionary funds are allocated.

“We are proceeding in the most transparent manner possible. We are adding safeguards by passing resolutions. We are convinced that we were legal before, but we will be even more so once the decision is adopted by the councilors,” said the mayor.

The added step could delay funding for local organizations, but it’s seen as a move toward greater fairness.

“All financial assistance procedures will be reanalyzed, possibly with the new council after the election. All grants may be debatable. What we want is maximum fairness for all organizations,” said the man who will be running for mayor next November.

Each year, Gaspé provides approximately $2 million in financial support to community organizations.
“The entire council seems comfortable with the way things are done,” concludes the mayor, emphasizing that fairness is a core value.

Right of first refusal

Gaspé is granting itself a right of first refusal. The town of Gaspé will have priority to purchase private land that may be put up for sale for certain uses, a power granted by Quebec in June 2022.

“It must be for public use: housing, children’s areas, even areas sensitive to biodiversity,” Mr. Côté gives as an example.

The town will determine the targeted land over the coming months.

“The urban planning team will identify the land on which we will register our right of first refusal. The owners will be informed,” he says.

The value of the land is not expected to change, according to the elected official. If there is a transaction, the Town will be able to match the offer, if it deems it appropriate.

Detailed information will be available soon on the Town’s website.

Cheaper asphalt

Surprisingly, the only bid submitted by Eurovia to pave the streets of Gaspé this year is slightly lower than the town’s estimates. The mayor says this is good news.

A total of $1.1 million has been allocated to pave several street sections deemed the highest priority.

“We are doing several hundred metres where it is most urgent. I would like to point out that an objective analysis was carried out using specific criteria. There is no political arbitration involved,” said Mr. Côté.

In 2022, the Town of Gaspé adopted a $3.4 million borrowing bylaw, in addition to sums from various funds for a total of $4 million over four years.

In the first year, the cost skyrocketed, with Eurovia’s bid requesting $1 million higher than that town’s $600,000 estimate. In 2023, however, the cost dropped to $676,000.

Discretionary budget: Gaspé adjusts its approach Read More »

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