Sophie Demers

Sophie Demers

LJI Reporter

The Aylmer development boom continues. A proposal for a new residential project has been submitted to Gatineau for five four-storey buildings with a total of 120 units, 24 units in each building. The project includes the creation of a new road near the planned site located at 891, 895 and 901, chemin Vanier and 275 and 285, rue d’Anver. The project is recommended by the Service de l’Urbanisme et du Développement Durable (SUDD).

The city’s project analysis documents state that, because the project is located further north on Vanier, future residents will have other route options when driving and will therefore be able to avoid the Vanier/Allumettières congestion zone. A traffic analysis conducted in June of 2020 indicates that this residential project will not have any traffic impact. The plans include the commitment by the developers to transfer to the city part of the land that is needed to widen Vanier in the future.

There will be 15 studio apartments, and these will be affordable as defined by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). There will also be 10 affordable 1-bedroom units, and 25 1-bedroom + office units, five of which will be affordable. The rest of the units will be 50 2-bedroom units and 20 3-bedroom units.

According to the CMHC, housing in Canada is considered affordable if it costs less than 30% of the household’s before-tax income.

There will be a total of 137 parking spaces; 93 will be underground parking and 44 will be surface parking. There are 46 trees on the lot, five of which are on the land that will be transferred to the city. According to an analysis of the trees, 22 have defects that will affect their lifespans. The developers plan to cut down the existing trees and replace them with 44 different trees and shrubs.

Photo: Digital rendering of the plans for the new residential project on Chemin Vanier and Rue d’Anver (SD) Photo: Courtesy

Sophie Demers

LJI Reporter

Anik Des Marais, Mitigomijokan councillor, announced during a press conference that she will not be seeking re-election as the Mitigomijokan councillor. In the 2021 election, Des Marais ran as the Action Gatineau Candidate and won with 40.49 % of the vote.

In a statement to her constituents posted on her Facebook page, she said, “Listening to you, exchanging with you and carrying your voice is a real privilege. This decision is the fruit of long reflection, culminating in a desire to return to my career in international development, in the current tumultuous context.”

Since the start of her mandate, Des Marais advocated for various environmental projects and was heavily involved in the initiative to involve citizens in decision-making processes. She highlighted that she was most proud of her involvement in greening three schoolyards, banning Bti, supporting public transit investments and revising the framework for citizen participation.

“I’m leaving with peace of mind, knowing that I’ve helped develop some important policies and action plans that are now coming to life. A new page will open for me next November, but I will remain committed to Action Gatineau. This passionate team shares my vision and love for our city, and continues to implement the values I hold dear,” she said.

The councillor noted that she would continue to work for her constituents until the end of her term in November.

“Anik Des Marais listened and responded to the needs of her fellow citizens with empathy,” said Gatineau Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette. “Her work in the field and her closeness to residents have made her a committed and respected representative. I am privileged to have her as a colleague, and I sincerely thank her for all she has accomplished for Aylmer and Gatineau.”

Photo: Anik Des Marais, Mitigomijokan Councillor, and Gatineau Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette during the press conference where des Marais announced she would not seek a second term as councillor (SD) Photo: Courtesy

Sophie Demers

LJI Reporter

Residents are anxious to learn the fate of the local point of service at 178 rue Principale. With the recent Centre intégré de santé et des services sociaux de l’Outaouais (CISSSO) cuts, people are worried that the few available services will be shut down. One resident said that her vaccination appointments scheduled at the point of service were moved to Hull. When asked why, she was told to file an official complaint.

According to a CISSSO spokesperson, there are no plans to change the services offered at the Aylmer location. CISSSO says they recognize the importance of this service and are working to maintain it within the current budgetary constraints.

The recent Quebec budget announcement detailed a 3% increase in the healthcare budget. However, CISSSO had previously stated that this increase is not sufficient to maintain the current level of service. With the current budget, Aylmer – Pontiac MNA, André Fortin said more cuts may be on the way.

CISSSO states that they must regularly evaluate available resources and adapt their service offering at all facilities.

A satisfaction survey given to users of the services over the past year allowed CISSSO to evaluate those given at their service points and adjust them if needed. However, this survey does not directly affect whether the Aylmer Service Point is cut.

Photo: Sophie Demers

Sophie Demers

LJI Reporter

Quebec presented their $165 billion budget for 2025-2026 on March 25. The budget plans for a $13 billion deficit, one of the largest in the province’s history.

André Fortin, the Member of National Assembly for the Aylmer – Pontiac region and member of the Quebec Liberal party, said “This budget is a real head-scratcher for us because, while the Quebec government is running the largest deficit in its history at $13.6 billion, they’re also announcing that they will decrease services in healthcare and education. Usually when you run a bigger deficit, it’s because you’re adding services, and this doesn’t appear to be the case here. So, Quebecers would be right to ask the question, where’s our money going? If we’re indebting ourselves more and we’re getting fewer services, something is not right with the way we are being governed by Coalition Avenir Quebec (CAQ).”

An example of this is the 2% increase in the education budget, which is not enough to cover the increase in salary that education professionals will receive this year, which represents a 2.5% increase. According to Fortin, this means less money for everyday services in schools for children as well as fewer specialized services in schools.

“The government is simply not investing what it should in the two priority areas that I hear about in this region, healthcare and education,” said Fortin.

The budget details $4.1 billion over five years to support the economy, which will include assistance for businesses affected by the tariffs. The assistance will come in the form of loans and financial support for initiatives that help shoppers identify Quebec products. CAQ said this was a strong response to the current economic tension in the US.

“It’s a nice posture by the CAQ government to say we’re in this situation because of the potential tariffs. But in truth, the $13.6 billion deficit is a structural deficit that has accumulated through years and years of poor decision making. When they came into power seven years ago, they were offered a $7 billion surplus. They have turned that into a $13.6 billion deficit,” said Fortin, highlighting that CAQ lost $270 million by investing in Northvolt and made other poor financial decisions through other failed investments, as well as tax cuts for “people who were in a very comfortable financial situation”.

Fortin says the province’s Liberal Party feels there was a missed opportunity to make more targeted investments in agriculture, especially with the US tensions making Canadians want to purchase local products and food.

For housing, the budget outlines $228 million over three years for maintenance of low-rental housing. The CAQ also plans to build 23,000 housing units by 2029. The Quebec government also commits to opening subsidized housing to 1,000 people over the next five years.

“For every housing unit that the government announces, we will support it. But the government is underestimating the need in terms of housing right now,” said Fortin, noting that the investments announced in the budget will not meet the needs of Quebecers. If there’s any government investment that needs to be sped up, it’s affordable housing.

Fortin also highlights that, with the increase in homelessness, the province has put more responsibility on cities and municipalities to find solutions, when it is Quebec’s responsibility.

For healthcare, there will be a 3% budget increase. Weeks prior to the budget announcement, the Minister of Health stated that a 3% increase would still mean cuts to the healthcare system that is already struggling.

“In this latest round of cuts they just completed, they let go nurses, nurse auxiliaries and social workers,” Fortin said. “The current CEO of the Centre intégré de santé et de services sociaux de l’Outaouais (CISSSO) said that, if we have to cut more, we will have to cut points of service, so local CLSCs, local vaccination clinics. In Pontiac, in Aylmer, in Gatineau, we just can’t afford to lose any healthcare right now. The Outaouais is at ground zero for less-than-optimal healthcare in Quebec.”

The MNA says he will continue to fight for the region in Quebec City and calls on residents to make their voices heard. “If we want them to respond, to do better, to change their ways, we have to be vocal about it,” concluded Fortin.

Sophie Demers

LJI Reporter

Fawaz Sultan Al-Jalloud, a 22-year-old Gatineau resident, was arrested by Gatineau Police on March 19 in relation to multiple sexual assaults. Investigators fear there may be more victims who are reluctant to come forward. Authorities are hoping to meet with anyone who may have had contact with the suspect.

Al-Jalloud is facing charges of sexual assault, incitement to sexual touching, and criminal harassment. After questioning, the suspect was released with several conditions. These conditions state that the suspect is prohibited from being in public spaces or parks where there may be individuals under age 16, prohibited from using the internet or digital networks unless supervised, and prohibited from being in the presence of anyone underage.

Police state that the victims are between the ages of 14 and 18. The suspect met his victims through social media platforms such as Snapchat and Instagram. After speaking with victims online, Al-Jalloud would meet them in person at various locations in Gatineau. The victims would be invited into the car, a blue Volkswagen Golf R 2024, where the assault would take place.

The offences took place between 2023 and 2024. The investigation is ongoing.

Gatineau police encourage anyone who has witnessed an incident or was a victim of Al-Jalloud to contact police by calling the INFO line at 819-243-4636, option 5.

The investigation is ongoing. Gatineau is working closely with the Sûreté du Québec’s Serial Crime Investigation Management Structure (GECS). Further charges may be laid.

Photo 1: The suspect, Fawaz Sultan Al-Jalloud, a 22-year-old Gatineau resident arrested by Gatineau Police on March 19 in relation to multiple sexual assaults (SD) Photo: Courtesy

Sophie Demers

LJI Reporter

Many residents noticed work being done on the vacant lot located along Chemin Aylmer between Victor-Beaudry and du Golf. The vacant lot is highly recognizable with two large inukshuks in the retention basin, often surrounded by ducks in the warmer months.

Although many were concerned that construction was taking place on the site, this is not the case. The Ministry of the Environment required maintenance work and expansion of the retention basin on the site. As owners of the site, Richcraft Homes were required to do the work. The work also includes improving accessibility to the site.

According to a Richcraft Homes representative, the project was necessary due to the recent construction of a school in the neighbourhood.

Deschênes councillor Caroline Murray noted that no development project is planned for the site. This was confirmed by Richcraft Homes who said they currently have no plans to develop the site.

“We’re working around them, but if they fall by any chance, we’re not going to risk workers’ safety to rebuild them,” said the representative regarding the inukshuks, noting that one is not structurally sound. Murray noted that the work respects environmental regulations.

The work will continue over the next two weeks.

Photo 1: Screenshot of retention basin and inukshuk
Photo: Screenshot

Photo 2: Work being done on site on February 14.
Photo: Sophie Demers

Sophie Demers

LJI Reporter

A round of applause could be heard during the February 18 city council meeting when the city clerk announced the results of the vote to overturn the decision to demolish the Manoir Quesnel. The Association des résidents du Parc Champlain et des environs and other local advocates have spent the last weeks fighting to save the home at 1175 chemin Aylmer, built in 1952.

The final vote came to 13 in favour of saving the Manoir and six in favour of going forward with the demolition. Councillors Jocelyn Blondin, Marc Bureau, Mike Duggan, Denis Girouard, Jean Lessard, and Mario Aubé voted in favor of moving forward with the demolition. The demolition was proposed to clear the way for a 10-storey apartment complex by developers EMD-Batimo.

The association and local advocates raised concerns about the project, arguing that it threatens a piece of local history and negatively impacts the Champlain Ecological Corridor, a designated conservation area where the home is located.

Those fighting against the demolition had met with city council on February 11 to discuss their concerns and amassed over 900 signatures in a petition to save the building.

Although this is a great victory for the neighbourhood, Aylmer Heritage Association addressed their ongoing concerns for the management of heritage homes and increased development along the Champlain Ecological Corridor earlier in the evening. Stating that many of the older homes are being bought and left to deteriorate to eventually propose their demolition for a new development. The association urged the council to work to protect this ecologically and historically rich corridor in the future.

Photo: Manoir Quesnel, February 21, 2025 Photo: Sophie Demers

Sophie Demers

LJI Reporter

Canadians across the country will cast their vote for the next federal election on April 28th. The following is an introduction of the candidates from all parties running in the Hull-Aylmer electoral district:

Liberal Party of Canada (LPC): Greg Fergus
• Greg Fergus has been the Hull-Aylmer Member of Parliament (MP) since 2015. Currently Speaker of the House of Commons, he has served over the years as Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister and to various department heads, such as the President of the Treasury Board, the Minister of Health, and the Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development. Fergus is a founding member of the Parliamentary Black Caucus. Before becoming a politician, he worked in the public and private sectors and has experience working in the academic sector as well as with non-profits.


Conservative Party of Canada (CPC): Jill Declare
• Jill Declare has lived in Aylmer since childhood. She is currently a member’s assistant for Garnett Genuis, a Conservative MP from Alberta, and has been involved in the Conservative Party of Canada since 1993. She has worked for 25 years assisting elected officials in the House of Commons. Declare refers to herself as a “common sense” candidate who is proud of her French and English heritage.


Bloc Québécois (BQ): Alice Grondin
• Alice Grondin has a bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration, a master’s in business administration, another master’s in human resources, and is currently completing a doctorate in business administration. She has founded a running club in her community and has volunteered many hours with local organizations such as food banks. Grondin has experience with Médecins sans Frontières in both Montreal and Toronto.


New Democratic Party (NDP): Pascale Matecki
• Pascale Matecki has lived in the area for 15 years and is the President of the Quartier Wright Residents Association. She volunteers with Action Quartier, an organization focused on promoting citizen involvement. Matecki has presided over the Lac-des-Fées school council. As a post-doctorate at the University of Ottawa, she has led projects and taught a variety of courses. She also developed anti-discrimination training with AGIR Outaouais.

Green Party of Canada (GPC): Frédéric Morin-Paquette
• Frédéric Morin-Paquette grew up in the Outaouais region before pursuing post-secondary education in Montreal to become a teacher. He worked as a teacher at a French school in British Columbia before taking his current position as a fifth-grade teacher at the École Internationale du Mont-Bleu. Morin-Paquette believes social justice and climate change are two major challenges we face today.


People’s Party of Canada (PPC): Jean-François D’Aoust
• At the time of publication there is limited information available on D’Aoust’s academic or career achievements.

For more information about the upcoming election visit the Election Canada website.

Sophie Demers

LJI Reporter

A Chelsea-based development company, Cargo, held an open house on March 26 for residents to learn more about their plans to build an apartment complex at 8 Lattion Street. The project has not been submitted to the City of Gatineau yet, but the developer states that they wanted to speak with the public and hear their opinions before getting city approval.

This development is phase 1 of the company’s plan, which will later include more buildings on the land located from 2 to 6 Lattion Street that Cargo acquired from another developer. The plans include a portion of the building having six storeys while another portion of the building will have eight storeys. The building will have 99 units including 1 bedroom, 2 bedrooms, and 3 bedrooms.

The zoning for the lot allows for this height; therefore, Cargo will not need to request minor variances from the city. According to Cargo’s Director General Daniel Sévigny, they don’t anticipate any minor variances for this project.

The plans do not include affordable housing units. Cargo has yet to finalize plans for phase 2 so they cannot provide unit numbers or building height information at this time. Cargo has completed projects in Gatineau and Chelsea. This will be their first project in Aylmer.

“This open house is really important, especially for the neighbours beside our lot. They’re used to not having anything in their backyard, so we think it’s important to meet with them, to chat with them and hear their concerns. That’s why we’re doing this,” said Sévigny. “We are always available. If people have questions or concerns, they can communicate with us by email, and we are happy to meet with people. We want to hear what people have to say about our projects so we can work together. We might not be able to answer every request, but we will listen and take everything into consideration.”

The consultation was held at 35 Lattion Street, which Cargo recently acquired after the owner heard that they were purchasing property on the street. There is no concrete project for the lot just yet but Sévigny says that they are speaking with the Committee Consultatif d’Urbanisme (CCU) president Caroline Murray, other local councillors, and the Aylmer Heritage Association. They plan on consulting the public before planning a project for the lot.

“It’s a heritage house, so we aim to preserve it in future development,” said Sévigny.

Photo 1: Digital architectural drawings of the development plans for 8 Lattion Street. Plans include a six- and eight-storey building with 99 units.

Photo 2: Aylmer residents participating in the open house to learn more about the future development project at 8 Lattion Street.

Photo 3: The house slated for demolition, currently located at 8 Lattion Street.

Photo 4: The house is located at 35 Lattion Street, where the consultation was held. Cargo also owns this property and is speaking with the city about future plans to develop.

Sophie Demers

LJI Reporter

Canadians across the country will cast their vote in the next federal election on April 28th. The following is an introduction of the candidates from all parties running in the Argenteuil – La Petite-Nation electoral district:

Liberal Party of Canada (LPC): Stéphane Lauzon
• Stéphane Lauzon worked for Canadian International Paper before being certified to teach vocational training. In 2009, he became a Gatineau city councillor and owned and managed a construction company. Lauzon has been the Member of Parliament for Argenteuil – La Petite-Nation since 2015 and has worked as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Citizens’ Services, the Minister of Rural Economic Development, the Minister of Seniors, the Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence. Lauzon has also held the position of Parliamentary Secretary for Sport and Persons with Disabilities.

Conservative Party of Canada (CPC): Martin Charron
• Martin Charron is a former interim mayor and municipal councillor. He states that he has been an entrepreneur for many years and has built and managed businesses. He served as president of the Family Assistance Committee for seven years and helped organize their annual food drive. Charron was also the former treasurer of the Civic Action League and has experience drafting policies for Quebec City.

Bloc Québécois (BQ): Martin Héroux
• Martin Héroux is an actor and comedian who currently lives in Sainte-Anne-des-Lacs, which used to be a part of the Argenteuil – La Petite-Nation electoral district. He has appeared in children’s shows on Radio-Canada and Télé-Québec. Throughout his career, he has worked as an actor, host, stage director, radio station general manager, painter and teacher. He has put his acting career on pause to pursue politics.

New Democratic Party (NDP): Michel Welt
• Michel Welt was born in France and immigrated to Canada when he was 14 and has been raising his children in Argenteuil – La Petite-Nation for 20 years. He is an obstetrician and gynaecologist working in Montreal and Haute-Mauricie. Welt has also worked in Abitibi. He has degrees from the University of Montreal and McGill University. Welt was also the NDP candidate in the previous federal election.

Green Party of Canada (GPC): Bertha Fuchsman-Small
• Bertha Fuchsman-Small is a retired family physician who worked with the James Bay Cree, as well as in Cote-des-neiges and Montreal. She has also worked in the Congo with Médecins sans Frontières. She is a volunteer at Grenville Elementary school and at Arks Harvest in Hawkesbury, a food sharing community organization. Fuchsman-Small is also an active member of Montreal Raging Grannies, a social justice organization.

People’s Party of Canada (PPC): Lindsey Therrien
• Lindsey Therrien is a mother and works in customer service and support. She is a part-time university student studying accounting and finance with the goal of developing her expertise in financial management. Therrien is the mother of four children.

For more information on the upcoming federal election visit the Elections Canada website.

Sophie Demers

LJI Reporter

Canadians across the country will cast their vote in the next federal election on April 28th. The following is an introduction of the candidates from all parties running in the Pontiac-Kitigan Zibi electoral district:

Liberal Party of Canada (LPC): Sophie Chatel
• Elected in 2021, Chatel is the incumbent Member of Parliament for the Pontiac-Kitigan Zibi riding. She was previously a public servant and has a law degree as well as a master’s degree in taxation. She is the former head of the Tax Treaty Unit at the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). Chatel has lived in the area since 2002.

Conservative Party of Canada (CPC): Brian Nolan
• Nolan is currently a Senior Program Officer for the Canadian Border Services Agency and has 25 years’ experience in public service work in various government departments. He has a computer programming degree and has been an entrepreneur running an IT consulting company and previously co-owning a food store in Ottawa. The candidate volunteered with Des Collines Minor Hockey, having held the role of President and Vice-President.

Bloc Québécois (BQ): As of publication, the candidate is yet to be announced. Candidates have until April 7 to announce their candidacy.

New Democratic Party (NDP): Gilbert Whiteduck
• Whiteduck was born and raised in Pontiac Kitigan-Zibi. He has served on the band council for Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg for 20 years, including seven years as Chief. The candidate has worked for over 30 years in education. Whiteduck has four university degrees. He is known as a strong advocate for his community. He also served as Senior Education Advisor with the First Nations Education Council for two years.

Green Party of Canada (GPC): As of publication, the candidate is yet to be announced. Candidates have until April 7 to announce their candidacy.

People’s Party of Canada (PPC): Todd Hoffman
• Hoffman is a former member of the Canadian Armed Forces. Later, he became an entrepreneur, running a construction company and a microbrewery before taking his current position as a high school teacher. Hoffman was involved with the Pontiac Chamber of Commerce for many years. He has served as president and is currently vice-president of the organization.

For more information on electoral districts and how to vote, visit the Elections Canada website.

Sophie Demers
LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

OTTER LAKE – A new community assembly is being established in Otter Lake to improve dialogue between residents and elected officials.

Organizer Thomas Villeneuve first announced the initiative on February 1 during the Otter Lake recreational association’s fishing derby, where it was met with immediate interest.

“I noticed while attending municipal council meetings that the dialogue between residents and council wasn’t always productive,” said Villeneuve. “I thought it would be better to create a space where we could have discussions on more equal footing.”

Villeneuve met with newly elected Otter Lake Mayor Jennifer Quaile, who voiced her support for the initiative and will also participate.

“By discussing certain issues as a community, we may find solutions that might not otherwise be explored,” said Villeneuve. “People might volunteer or get more involved if they feel like they’re part of the decision-making process.”

The assembly will serve as both a decision-making group and a platform for organizing events and projects. Participants can propose topics and ideas for community discussion.

“So far, 20 people have expressed interest in volunteering for the first information session, and other local organizations are also interested in participating,” said Villeneuve. He hopes the assembly will meet monthly once established.

An information session will be held at 5 pm on April 5 at the Otter Lake RA Centre for anyone interested in the initiative. For more details contact info@olcac.ca.

Sophie Demers
LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

MRC PONTIAC – The municipalities of Campbell’s Bay, L’Isle-aux-Allumettes, Otter Lake, and Waltham have received funding from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs (MAMH) to support local projects chosen through participatory budgets.

Participatory budgets allow residents to propose and vote on projects they want the funding to support. This approach ensures the community has a direct say in how the money is spent.

Campbell’s Bay, L’Isle-aux-Allumettes, and Otter Lake each received $10,000, the maximum amount available, while Waltham applied for and received $5,000. The MRC Pontiac will match the funds awarded to each municipality.

“We’ll be putting out a call for proposals, asking for submissions for projects — probably in April,” said Otter Lake Mayor Jennifer Quaile. “We haven’t determined the exact priority areas yet, but there’s a range of options to choose from: the economy, the environment, agriculture, sports and recreation. The interesting thing about this initiative is that it allows the public to have real input into concrete actions that can improve the community at large.”

All 18 Pontiac municipalities were invited to apply for the funding, though some chose not to participate.

“We decided not to apply because we applied for a lot of funding last year,” said Mansfield Mayor Sandra Armstrong. “We’re currently focused on using the funding we’ve already received and completing various projects. Once we’re ready to focus on new initiatives, we’ll certainly apply for additional funding opportunities.”

Residents in participating municipalities can expect more details in the coming weeks about how to get involved with their municipalities’ participatory budgets.

Sophie Demers
Local Journalism Initiative

OTTAWA – The Federal Court has ruled in favour of Kebaowek First Nation’s judicial review challenging a species at risk permit issued to Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL) for their Near Surface Disposal Facility (NSDF) at Chalk River. This is the second win for the Kebaowek in their fight against the nuclear dump, following a judgement in their favour in February where a federal judge ruled that the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) and CNL had failed to properly consult the First Nation on the project, violating their rights under the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP).

The species at risk challenge was initiated by Kebaowek First Nation, along with Concerned Citizens of Renfrew County and Area, the Canadian Coalition for Nuclear Responsibility, and the Sierra Club Canada Foundation.

Justice Russel Zinn’s ruling determined that CNL did not adequately evaluate all reasonable alternative locations for the NSDF, violating the Species at Risk Act. The decision sends the permit application back to Environment Canada (ECCC) for re-evaluation.

The Chalk River site is home to three endangered species—the Blanding’s turtle and two species of bats—according to concerns first raised by Kebaowek First Nation in 2016. The species at risk permit would have allowed CNL to proceed with the NSDF despite these risks.

“This ruling is a resounding affirmation of what we have been saying all along: CNL’s choice of site was flawed from the start,” said Chief Lance Haymond of Kebaowek First Nation. “The court recognized that alternative locations, including Whiteshell in Pinawa, MB, and the Nuclear Power Demonstration (NPD) near Rolphton, ON, posed fewer risks to endangered species, yet CNL dismissed these options without proper justification. This decision is a crucial step toward ensuring that environmental laws are upheld and that our voices as stewards of the land are heard.”

Ole Hendrickson, representing Concerned Citizens of Renfrew County and Area, commented on the ruling: “This decision highlights the flawed site selection process and reinforces the need to prioritize environmental and Indigenous rights in decision-making.”

In response, CNL stated: “CNL respects the decision rendered by the court and is taking time to review and assess the decision to determine next steps. In the interim, the historic low-level waste at Chalk River Laboratories remains in safe temporary storage, routinely monitored. We will continue efforts to minimize environmental impacts of Canada’s nuclear legacy liabilities. We firmly believe in the science behind our proposal, which is the result of almost a decade of study, federal and provincial review, and engagement with Indigenous communities, the public, and other interested parties.”

The NSDF project aims to create a facility for safely disposing low-level radioactive waste from nuclear research facilities, decommissioned reactor sites, uranium mines, and old radium watch factories.

Kebaowek First Nation intends to continue its opposition to the NSDF project, emphasizing the importance of following proper procedures, respecting Indigenous rights, and protecting the environment.

A decision is still pending on a third legal challenge opposing the NSDF licensing due to environmental concerns.

SOPHIE DEMERS
LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

MRC PONTIAC – William Armitage has resigned as president of AgriSaveur Cooperative’s board of directors (responsible for the abattoir), along with two other board members. Armitage declined to comment on his departure.

Kyle Kidder has since taken over as president, and the vacant board positions have been filled.

“I think it’s an excellent project and could be a great asset for everyone in the community and adjoining communities as well,” said Kidder. “It’s going to bring a lot of positives in terms of service, but also employment too. I’m excited about it and look forward to getting things rolling.”

Rumours have circulated that the resignations were linked to frustration over the project’s slow progress, but MRC Pontiac Director General Kim Lesage said that was not the case.

“I wouldn’t say the reason is because it wasn’t moving fast enough,” said Lesage. “I think we’ve just got to a place where it was time for different leadership. A co-op is like a relay race rather than a sprint, and sometimes it’s just time for somebody else to take the torch to move things forward. Everybody from the beginning has played an important part in getting the abattoir open, forming the co-op, and working on the business plan.”

Lesage said the MRC remains committed to the project.

“We really believe in it and are anxious to have it open for our producers,” she said.

According to Lesage, progress is steady. The co-op holds regular meetings every Monday evening, and the general manager position is open for applications until March 14. Several applications have already been received.

The co-op is currently working on securing insurance, preparing documents, assessing site repairs and maintenance, and finalizing its business plan.

Kidder said they aim to open this spring, though no official date has been set.

AgriSaveur Pontiac is an agricultural cooperative for Pontiac producers. The project has three components: a commercial kitchen for the production of local products, the abattoir, and a boutique located at the abattoir to sell the products created.

SOPHIE DEMERS
LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

CHALK RIVER – The parent company responsible for the planned Micro Modular Reactor (MMR) project at Chalk River has declared bankruptcy. Ultra Safe Nuclear Corporation (USNC) filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in the United States in October 2024 to facilitate the sale of its assets, including those of subsidiaries Global First Power Ltd, Ultra Safe Nuclear-Technologies, and USNC-Power.

“Ultra Safe Nuclear remains steadfast in its dedication to bringing safe, commercially competitive, clean, and reliable nuclear energy to global power and industrial markets,” said Kirk Edwards, chairman of USNC’s board of directors.

On December 24, 2024, NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. acquired USNC’s patented MMR system, Pylon reactor technology, associated patents, and certain demonstration project partners for $8.5 million at a court-supervised auction.

NANO said it intends to build on the industry relationships USNC had established. The company aims to ensure continuity in licensing, regulatory, and grant-related efforts where possible.

James Walker, NANO’s Chief Executive Officer and Head of Reactor Development, said their technical team is evaluating the acquired patents to determine how they will enhance NANO’s development plans.

“As our technical teams continue exploring the nuclear technology patents, the benefits they’ll provide to our development plans becomes more apparent,” said Walker.

Global First Power (GFP), a USNC subsidiary, had been advancing the Chalk River MMR system, planned for completion by 2028. Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL) is in discussions with NANO about the project’s future.

“We’ve had conversations with NANO to understand their plans and vision,” said Philip Kompass, Director of Corporate Communications at CNL. “At this point, they haven’t announced whether they’ll be picking up that project, but we’re talking.”

Kompass said that regardless of NANO’s decision, CNL’s Small Modular Reactor (SMR) program will continue. CNL has spoken with other vendors and continues to expand partnerships.

On February 3, CNL announced an expansion of the SMR program, inviting technologies like fusion, battery storage, and other innovative energy solutions to propose projects at a CNL-managed site. Applications for the expanded program are now open.

Sophie Demers

LJI Reporter

Fifty partners, elected officials, and community members gathered on February 22 to celebrate the official opening of Maison Communautaire d’Aylmer. Partenaires du Secteur Aylmer (PSA), who also celebrated their 20th anniversary that evening, worked countless hours to set up the 1875 heritage building as their new home. The building, the former presbytery of St. Paul’s Church, is located at 61 rue du Couvent in the heart of Old Aylmer.

The evening consisted of a ribbon cutting, live music, wine and tasty bites. The guests were served by Acti-Leaders, who are teenagers hired, trained and paid by PSA through their Acti-Leader program for teens.

Lisa Lagasé, General Director of PSA, said that when preparing the building they prioritize conserving the heritage feel of the interior. “We’ve been discussing the need for more space with our partners for nearly 10 years now,” she stated. “When we heard about the opportunity to rent this space from the church, we knew we couldn’t pass it up.”

The Maison Communautaire d’Aylmer will serve as a place where partners and the community can meet, exchange ideas, carry out activities, and training. The heritage home includes a large meeting room that can accommodate up to 40 people, a large kitchen with fridge space, and upstairs are smaller office spaces that partners will be able to rent at an affordable cost.

“This will allow our partners with offices in Gatineau or Hull to bring their services directly to the Aylmer Community. It gives space for services that meet the needs of the Aylmer community. We envision this home as a hub for community activities, projects and initiatives” said Lagasé.

The decor and furniture were all sourced by the PSA team members. The small but mighty team accomplished the work all while continuing their full-time commitment to the organization.

The services offered by the Maison Communautaire will certainly benefit the community, but for the time being, they will be offered through our various partners. A next step could give access to other groups or associations within the community, and perhaps in time, directly to the community itself,” said Samuel Koukpaki, administrative and liaison Assistant with PSA.

“We would like to thank all our supporters; through their work and financial support we were able to make this happen,” said Lagasé highlighting the City of Gatineau’s support for the organization.

PSA was created in 2004, and since it was founded, the organization has worked with its partners to make Aylmer a warm and welcoming place for all to develop and flourish within the community.

Photo 1: The new Maison Communautaire d’Aylmer made possible by Partenaires du Secteur Aylmer. The heritage home, built in 1875, is located at 61 rue du Couvent. (SD) Photo 1: Sophie Demers

Photo 2: Elected officials, Steve Boivin, Aylmer councillor, and Greg Fergus, MP for Hull-Aylmer, along with representative from Partenaires du Secteur Aylmer, including Director General Lisa Lagasé cutting the ribbon of the new Maison Communautaire d’Aylmer (SD)
Photo: Courtesy

SOPHIE DEMERS
LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

SHAWVILLE – Les Maisons PAJ, a Luskville-based development company, submitted a proposal to Shawville’s council to build four farmhouse style buildings containing six units each. The first public consultation on the development took place on February 3 at the town hall, with residents voicing their support and concerns.

Some of the one bedroom, one bathroom units will be rented for $900 monthly, while other similar units will be rented at $1,050. Three-bedroom units will range between $1,500 to $1,600.

According to Matthieu Jodoin, Les Maisons PAJ owner, they’re able to offer affordable units by participating in the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corportaion (CMHC) MIL Select program. The program uses a point-based system based on a building’s affordability, energy efficiency, and accessibility. Different levels of insurance incentives are available based on points.

“Thermo-pumps allow us to save up to 40% on energy,” said Jodoin. “All units will include air exchangers, dishwashers, and quartz counters. They’re well insulated. This is quality housing at a price point that’s hard to match.”

Jodoin highlighted the benefits of the project, such as being built on an empty lot. “It will represent additional income for the municipality and will help attract workers and new residents, increasing Shawville’s population.”

“I’ve seen other units in Shawville in that price range, but no new buildings. The existing buildings are older, not as efficient and most likely cost more to heat,” said Charles Gallant, Shawville building inspector, noting he believes the project will integrate well with the surrounding area. “Shawville, like Fort-Coulonge or Campbell’s Bay, is an urban area [intended for] densification. With population growth, if there’s more demand for housing, it will become more expensive in the long run,” he concluded.

Photo – Rental units built by Les Maisons PAJ on King Street last year. (BZ)​

SOPHIE DEMERS
LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

SHAWVILLE – In September, the Western Quebec School Board (WQSB) released their 2024-2025 investment plan detailing the condition of each of their schools, with McDowell Elementary in Shawville ranking the worst.

The assessment found that of the WQSB’s 30 buildings, two are considered in “very good” condition, two are “good”, and three are in an “acceptable state”. Of the remaining buildings, 16 were classified as in “bad” condition and 7 were in “very bad”.

Various categories were evaluated: substructure, shell (exterior, roof), interior, services (heating, electric, plumbing etc.) equipment and sitework. Services represent 41% of the issues found, while issues with the shell represent 29.5%.

The analysis revealed a total investment of about $167 million is required. However, the budget available for 2024-2025 totals $12,610,900.

Pascal Proulx, WQSB assistant director general, said much of the needed work is on equipment or aspects of the building that are at the end of their lifecycle. The WQSB is working to maintain and repair as much as possible within their budgets.

Originally built in 1956 with an expansion in 1961, the total investment needed to address McDowell’s condition is estimated at $18,592,767. It’s one of seven schools that still rely on oil heating.

Proulx said McDowell’s issues are mainly related to its outdated interior, which isn’t prioritized as it’s largely aesthetic. “The McDowell building is safe and there’s no danger. The challenge we have as an organization is there’s not enough money to do everything. We have to find a balance between investing money to maintain old assets versus replacing them. We have to do risk management. The priority is health and safety, legal obligations and the integrity of the infrastructure. Interior renovations, usually related to aesthetics, are unfortunately really low priority,” he explained.

The investment plan details work to be done on McDowell in 2025, with $1,550,000 dedicated to interior renovation work such as lights, floors, ceilings, lockers, interior doors, and asbestos encapsulation of all interior walls. Other upcoming work includes roof renovations costing $1 million and exterior brick wall repair, estimated to cost $450,000.

Proulx explained that although it seems like the WQSB isn’t receiving enough money, the budget is the largest they’ve had in almost a decade. “We’re working with the Ministry of Education. They know we have issues and what the WQSB needs. They’re working to help us find the money,” he concluded.

Photo – Dr. S. E. McDowell Elementary School. (BZ)

Sophie Demers

LJI Reporter

The first city council meeting of the year started off with a bang. A resolution authorizing a Masson-Anger restaurant to add three video lottery machines to the five already installed sparked a heated debate among councillors.

The restaurant would have to move a wall slightly to accommodate the new machines. This required a minor variance that the city needed to approve.

During the preparatory caucus meeting, Buckingham councillor and President of the Economic Development Commission, Edmond Leclerc, asked that the council be vigilant when approving the resolution as it set a precedent for other requests in the future. He noted that the Committee Consultatif de L’Urbanisme (CCU) was in favor of the resolution while the city’s Service d’Urbanisme was not.

Mario Aubé, Masson-Anger councillor, advocated for the approval of the resolution in the name of supporting local businesses and highlighting the financial benefits of these machines for the business. He also noted that other businesses in Gatineau had more than five machines and that exceptions could be made for some and not others. Other councillors also voiced their unfavourable opinions related to the video lottery machines.

“The monetary argument is not usually considered in a decision,” said Aubé, “but when we speak like a machine, rather than thinking with our heads, it is sometimes at that moment that we make it difficult for the merchants in our different sectors. This afternoon, I was very surprised to see that the President of the Economic Development Commission (Councillor Leclerc) opposes this kind of demand when we have merchants who have a lot of difficulty, especially in the eastern sector of the city. I will continue to defend merchants throughout the city, but especially in this sector. In Masson-Angers, over the past few years, there have been four restaurants, including two in Angers, that burned down and no longer exist. There is one left for breakfast, and it is the one we are currently discussing.”

In response, Hull-Wright Councillor Steve Morin said, “It’s disappointing to think that the addition of video lottery is an economic development matter. It does not create a service. Gambling does not create prosperity. Another point, I find it deplorable that after we make a decision here, we imply that taking a position other than that of the person speaking – I’m referring to Mr. Aubé – does not speak with intelligence.”

This sparked a heated argument, with councillors interrupting and talking over one another. Denis Girouard, Lac-Beauchamp councillor, stated that the discussion was unproductive because it was along party lines, while also siding with Aubé. Girouard then said the President of the Economic Development Commission should back down.

Council president, Steven Boivin, had to halt the discussion and remind councillors involved to focus on the agenda item, stop discussions of political parties and suggest council members step down.

Aubé stated that not too far from Masson-Anger, in Buckingham there is a business that has 10 machines. Others noted that saying that these machines won’t bring revenue to the business is shortsighted, as no one would argue that Casino Lac-Leamy benefits from these machines.

Before the vote Boivin stated “Dear colleagues, I remind you that it is rare that we have debates as lively as this. It is important to do it. I hope that we will continue to have these debates. I just hope that when we do it, we focus on the proposal and not get involved in the entire electoral campaign that follows.”

In the end, the council approved the video lottery machines. The vote was 15 in favour and five against. Moran, despite voicing dissatisfaction with the proposal, voted in favor. The vote was not divided along party lines. A mix of independents and Action Gatineau members voted in favour, same with those who voted against.

Photo: Mario Aubé, Masson-Anger councillor, during the January 21 council meeting. (SD)
Photo: Screenshot by Sophie Demers

SOPHIE DEMERS
LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

MRC PONTIAC – Those still waiting for a family doctor may be able to get one soon. After adding four doctors to their network in the past year, the Pontiac Family Medicine Group (GMF) is looking to expand their client list.

“We encourage Pontiac residents to register for a family doctor through the government’s ministerial list (GAP). Ensuring access to family doctors starts with signing up,” said Danielle Romain, coordinator for GMF du Pontiac. “Some people on the waiting list have moved or changed their phone number. If they were contacted but did not respond, they were removed from the list. There may be people who believe they are registered but are not.”

Romain says they have completely emptied their current list and any resident without a doctor should double-check that they are registered or to update their information.

GMF du Pontiac has nine sites including the Chapeau, Mansfield, Shawville, Otter Lake, and Quyon CLSCs as well as the Campbell’s Bay, Shawville (Lotus Clinic), and Pontiac medical centres. The network has 25 doctors, two clinical nurses, three nurse practitioners, two social workers, and a psychologist.

Romain noted that some doctors will be retiring soon; however, GMF du Pontiac has planned accordingly and will be able to manage the transition.

Pontiac residents who want to register can do so through the GMF du Pontiac website: https://gmfdupontiac.com/.

SOPHIE DEMERS
LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

FORT-COULONGE – Last July, the Pontiac Pool Project Committee announced they didn’t receive funding from the Quebec government to proceed with building an indoor pool in Pontiac. This was their second time applying for the $8 million to build the pool after receiving funding early in the process to create an architectural and construction plan.

According to Jane Toller, MRC Pontiac’s warden who spearheaded the project, the committee won’t apply for the same funding again this year.

“In all of Quebec, only one pool got partial funding and the rest were refused,” said Toller. “The provincial government knows it can be challenging to cover operating costs of a pool, so I think they’re reluctant to fund the capital cost. They’re putting far more support into building hockey arenas at the moment.”

Toller, who has put the pool project on her top priority list since she was first elected in 2017, says she’s not giving up and is investigating alternative funding opportunities and ways to simplify the original plan.

Toller noted the Pontiac Pool Committee surveyed residents a few years ago and 80% of respondents stated the pool is one of their top priorities. “I haven’t stopped believing in the importance of a swimming pool because many people will benefit from it and it will improve the region’s health and quality of life,” said Toller.

The original plans included an accessible pool with a ramp for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility, aquafit classes, swimming clubs and lessons.

Although the project will not move forward as planned, Toller says it’s important not to lose hope. “I’m investigating a way of building this pool that will not require us to wait months with our hands out to the government and probably hearing ‘no’ a third time,” explained Toller. “I’m looking into private funding and ways to spend less money. I want to be able to say by the end of this year that a pool is on its way,” she concluded.

Sophie Demers

LJI Reporter

Refurbishment of the biogas and leachate collection system at the former Cook landfill site started in September 2024. This work has been in discussion for years and was an important topic during the 2021 municipal elections in Gatineau. After significant delays, the work has begun and is scheduled to continue until summer 2025. The work being done aims to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) from the site. The Cook site is one of Quebec’s major GHG emitters. The upgrades to the site are part of Gatineau’s climate change plan.

“In the era of climate change, it is essential for the city to make every effort to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions,” said Marc Bureau, President of the Commission de l’environnement et de la lutte aux changements climatiques and Parc-de-la-Montagne-Saint-Raymond councillor. “I am especially delighted about the work at the Cook site as part of the city’s Climate Plan. It is crucial to achieve the objectives, particularly carbon neutrality. In general, this work will also improve the quality of life of our citizens, while contributing to a sustainable future that respects the environment.”

The scheduled work includes the construction of a new biogas capture and destruction system, modernization of the current leachate collection system, the addition of a leachate collection network in the northern part of the site, along with landscaping and updating the site’s sanitary sewer pumping system.

Gatineau warns that the work may result in heavier traffic and increased noise in the area surrounding the site. The upgrades to the site are part of Gatineau’s climate change plan, which aims to reduce its GHG emissions by 50% based on the 2015 numbers by 2030. Other goals include a 35% reduction in community GHG emissions. Overall Gatineau aspires to be carbon neutral by 2050.

The project is supported by the Quebec government’s Plan for a Green Economy 2030. The project’s cost is estimated to total nearly $10 million. Pronex Excavation Inc. was given the contract to complete this work.

Photo: Cook site on January 10, 2025, work to update the former landfill’s biogas and leachate collection system is underway.

Photo: Sophie Demers

Sophie Demers

LJI Reporter

During the second day of the city’s budget discussions last week, Gatineau presented the action plan for homelessness and social development for 2025-2029. The proposed plan details a $24,028,235 investment over the next five years. For 2025, the city plans to invest $4,997,394.

According to city documents, Gatineau aims to demonstrate strong leadership in fighting homelessness and social development where all residents have a good quality of life and are put at the centre of all actions.

The plan details six categories for achieving their goals:

• Governance: This includes the creation of a municipal team dedicated to the issue of homelessness and social development, an action plan with community organizations, allocating resources and establishment of an interdepartmental committee. In 2025, $3,050,000 of the budget will be allocated to this.

• Targeted communication: Next year, $286,500 of the budget will be allocated to raising awareness with residents, stimulating the interest of organizations and project promoters in developing related initiatives, and improving communication.

• Research, consultation, and partnerships: This category represents a $415,000 investment to strengthen partnerships with community organization and municipal services and optimize support for organizations through the Community Development Support Framework.

• A roof for everyone: Of the total budget for homelessness, $1,325,000 will go toward increasing the construction of housing such as affordable, transitional, and emergency housing, and contributing to access to housing.

• Interventions: Largely, this entails supporting various programs, managing encampments, implementing frameworks for managing encampment operations and makeshift camps.

• Neighbourhood life and community development: This involves encouraging the development of links between community centres, local associations, and social development committees, and supporting citizen access to infrastructure, and encouraging civic participation. This category also involves supporting healthy-living environment initiatives, supporting community partners’ initiatives in public and active transportation, and integrating community development approaches to public spaces and city infrastructure.


The homelessness crisis has been an ongoing issue with the city for many years. At almost every council meeting, there is a resident addressing the council on the topic. There was always a lot of discussion on the fact that homelessness is a provincial issue being pushed on municipalities. Some councillors feel that investing this amount excuses Quebec from its responsibility. Despite most councillors agreeing that Quebec should be supporting cities in fighting homelessness, the proposals to reduce the amount budgeted were rejected.

While the initial plan was kept after going to a vote, a few expressed their disagreement with the approach. Jocelyn Blondin stated that he doesn’t believe that the way the city is going about it will help get people experiencing homelessness out of their situation. “I don’t think that what we are doing now is really a solution to help them in the long term. I have learned over the years that if you want to help someone get by, it’s not by giving them fish; it’s by giving them a fishing rod and showing them how to fish. So, I’m looking for other things in the movement we are doing to really help them get by,” said Blondin.

Mike Duggan, Pointe-Gatineau councillor, stated that the five-year commitment relieves the province from their responsibilities for too long, suggesting that the plan outline be for one or two years instead.

“If we don’t take responsibility, if we don’t fill the void left by our provincial government, who’s going to do it?” said Daniel Champagne, Versant councillor and president of the housing committee. “We’re probably going to find ourselves in much worse situations over the next few years. So, I recognize that it’s elsewhere that we should invest those sums. I totally agree with that. But our reality is very different.”

Steve Moran, President of the executive committee, echoed this, stating, “The sums we allocated, will not be able to meet the needs on the ground. The needs are beyond this defined by the community and by the City of Gatineau. We are doing this to meet our budgetary capacity.” He highlights that if the city doesn’t budget these sums, it will be spent anyway due to community needs and management of encampments.

Photo: The municipal council gathered on the final budget discussion day, where a discussion took place about the amount the city is budgeting for fighting homelessness.

Photo: Sophie Demers

Sophie Demers

LJI Reporter

The $887 million budget, approved on December 10, represents a 10% increase in spending compared to the 2024 budget. It includes a 3.18% tax increase for the residential sector and 4.18% for the non-residential sector.

The budget details an investment of $5 million to fight homelessness, investments in Gatineau’s climate needs and the revival of the city centre. Specifically, the largest budget allocations are $145 million for police and fire services, $140 million for public works, as well as $80 million for the Climate Plan.

“Accelerate urgent investments and reduce pressure on taxpayers. What we offer you is not a sum of numbers. It is an electroshock, a structuring response to our great collective challenges,” said Gatineau Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette in her opening statement. Later in the speech, Marquis-Bissonnette stated, “I am extremely proud of the budget proposal before us tonight and the path we have taken to achieve it. City finances are well managed with tools that allow us to project ourselves in time. The level of debt is low, and we are in a good position to face the challenges.”

Fifteen of the twenty council members voted in favor of the budget while five independent councillors voted against, namely Gilles Chagnon (Lucerne), Mike Duggan (Pointe-Gatineau), Denis Girouard (Lac-Beauchamp), Jean Lessard (Rivière-Blanche) and Mario Aubé (Masson-Angers).

“The budget before us offers out-of-control spending, historical tax increases, increases in all rates, budgetary choices far from the priorities of the Gatineau residents, and spending in the place of the Quebec government. The 2025 budget of the City of Gatineau is a budget of ease because it is much easier to spend and tax than to manage and prioritize. It is visionless and too expensive for the people of Lac-Beauchamp,” said Girouard during the council meeting.

“We will reduce our spending on infrastructure. For example, our investments in paving will be maintained at $55 million in 2025, which was part of our five-year plan that will end in 2025. So, in 2026, 2027, 2028 and 2029, we will fall back by nearly $33 million per year,” echoed Chagnon in his statement. “Meanwhile, the people I meet in my door-to-door cut everywhere in their personal expenses to make ends meet, for example, fewer restaurants. We should take an example of those who tighten their belts a little.”

Photo: Gatineau Mayor, Maude Marquis-Bissonnette, during her opening statement before the budget approval.
Photo: Courtesy

SOPHIE DEMERS
LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

PONTIAC WEST – The Pontiac region, especially Sheenboro, Chichester, Waltham, L’Isle-Aux-Allumettes, and Mansfield-et-Pontefract, continues to experience unreliable power. Residents are frustrated with the frequent and prolonged outages, and progress with Hydro-Québec has been slow.

Corey Spence, Mayor of L’Isle-Aux-Allumettes, says many problems remain the same as they were in July. Spence, who has been working on the power outage file, states that the frequent outages are due to a poorly maintained network, including vegetation near lines, old technology, and cracked insulators.

In an October 24 meeting with municipal officials, Hydro-Québec said they planned to address these issues by increasing resources to the region this fall (2024) to work on areas that require the most attention.

Spence notes the outages this summer and fall were due to the power grid’s sensitivity while connected to the Hydro-Québec network instead of the Ontario network that usually provides the region’s power but was unavailable due to maintenance.

Another issue is slow crew response times. The nearest workers are in Maniwaki, causing a two-hour delay due to travel. Hydro-Québec says they are looking to hire someone closer.

Poor communication is also a problem. The Hydro-Québec app and the representative assigned to the municipality often provide incorrect information during outages. “This makes it impossible to plan essentials for the duration of the outage like getting gas for the generator, preparing water supplies, checking on neighbors etc.,” said Spence. “Hydro-Québec is looking into improving their processes.”

The network is nearing capacity, especially during extreme cold weather. Upgrades, such as larger transformers or extending transmission lines and installing a substation, are needed. Hydro-Québec will provide an update on the network capacity issue in the spring.

“Hydro-Québec assures us they are actively addressing the situation with network improvements that should deliver noticeable results promptly. I remain optimistic but will maintain regular meetings with Hydro-Québec to ensure we stay on the right path,” said Spence​.

Sophie Demers
Local Journalism Initiative

The annual Sûreté du Québec (SQ) Activity Report, covering April 1, 2023, to March 31, 2024, summarizes the activities of the MRC’s Public Safety Committee relating to crime and the SQ’s Pontiac detachment.

“I believe the public was well-protected. Crimes against persons remain a priority. While we have the right number of officers for the reported crimes, the large territory remains a challenge for response times. The two police cadets who worked with us over the past two summers received excellent feedback. The Council of Mayors has agreed to welcome four cadets in 2025, depending on candidate availability,” said Alain Gagnon, Mayor of Bryson and Chair of the Public Safety Committee.

During the reporting period, the committee focused on two main priorities: improving traffic safety (both on and off road) and addressing criminal matters, including graffiti, break-ins, and drug use.

SQ’s Pontiac station conducted 693 road patrols and 26 off-road patrols for quad riders, snowmobilers, and boaters. Of the road patrols, 295 were carried out in the evening, between 3 p.m. and midnight, to monitor crime-prone times.

Elected officials made two key requests to the Sûreté in the past year: addressing speeding in Danford Lake and managing excessive noise in Rapides-des-Joachims. Patrols were conducted, resulting in 10 speeding tickets, while operational files were opened and managed with Rapides’ director general to address the noise issue.

Several prevention initiatives were implemented, including domestic violence simulations for protocol training, cybersecurity, bullying prevention, and alcohol and drug awareness presentations at local schools.

Regarding vehicle collisions, there were 259 incidents, continuing a downward trend from previous years.

Sophie Demers
Local Journalism Initiative

OTTAWA – Backed by a decision from the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB), Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon has invoked his powers under the labour code to order striking postal workers back to work. Canada Post operations resumed at 8 am on Tuesday, December 17.

At a press conference on December 13, MacKinnon stated that negotiations between Canada Post and the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) had made little progress, with the federal mediator reporting that talks were going in the “wrong way.”

Two days of hearings were held by the CIRB, who concluded that the parties are at an impasse in their negotiations. “I have asked the CIRB to extend the terms of the existing collective agreements until May 22, 2025. During this time, an Industrial Inquiry Commission will be established,” said MacKinnon.

The inquiry report is due on May 15, 2025. “The review could provide the basis of a path forward on how to amend the collective agreements and clarify the structures, rights, and responsibilities of the parties in collective bargaining,” said MacKinnon.

Canada Post responded to the news, “We are prepared to fully participate in the process and comply with the Minister’s directive. While that unfolds, we look forward to welcoming our employees back to work and serving Canadians and customers. We will take all appropriate steps to support that process as quickly as possible given the direction provided to us by the Minister. Our commitment has always been to reach negotiated agreements with the CUPW that would help us better serve the changing needs of Canadians and provide good jobs to those who provide the service.”

CUPW issued a statement denouncing MacKinnon’s decision. “This order continues a deeply troubling pattern in which successive federal governments have used back-to-work legislation or, in this case, its arbitrary powers to let employers off the hook from bargaining in good faith. What employer would move on anything when they know the government will bail them out? Once again, the government has chosen capital over workers by taking away our leverage to get a good deal,” said Jan Simpson, CUPW National President.

In a December 15 press release, Canada Post stated that the returning employees will receive a retroactive pay increase of five percent, dating back to the expiry of the collective agreements (December 31, 2023, for Rural and Suburban Mail Carriers (RSMC) and January 31, 2024, for the urban unit). All regular full-time and part-time employees will be receiving a $1,000 payment before Christmas, with the remainder of the retroactive pay forwarded by the end of January. Temporary employees will receive $500, based on a minimum number of hours.

On November 15, approximately 55,000 CUPW members nationwide went on strike after a year of union bargaining with Canada Post.

Most mail and packages have not been delivered during the strike, affecting millions across the country. Canada Post noted that even after the strike ends, it will take time for services to return to normal due to the backlog.

Originally, CUPW demanded a 24% wage increase over four years but recently amended their demand to 19%. Canada Post, which has faced financial losses for the past seven years, said this demand is still too high and would cost the crown corporation billions over the coming years. The postal service offered an 11.5% wage increase over the same period, which was rejected.

In addition to wage increases, CUPW’s demands include more job security, protection from technological advances, higher short-term disability payments, a cost-of-living allowance, a 20-hour minimum schedule for part-time workers in urban areas, and overall better working conditions. The union is also asking for 10 medical days in addition to the 7 personal days outlined in the collective agreement​.

SOPHIE DEMERS
LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

QUEBEC – Sonia LeBel, president of the Conseil du trésor, announced a public sector hiring freeze in late October. In effect at the beginning of November, institutions and organizations can now only fill positions from within; no outside recruitment is permitted. Although originally it seemed this wouldn’t affect school boards, that’s not the case.

The hiring freeze applies to professional, support and supervisory staff who don’t provide “direct services” to students; teachers aren’t included.

The Conseil du trésor stated the reason for the freeze was “…to curb the growth in the number of employees in the public service and respect budgets allocated for the current year.”

According to the Centre de service scolaire des Hauts-Bois-de-l’Outaouais (CSSHBO), schools are allowed to request an exemption to fill positions externally if the absence of recruitment results in a service interruption.

“We’re doing everything we can to limit the repercussions, notably by reorganizing work and optimizing available resources. The hiring freeze represents a challenge but we remain committed to offering the best possible services,” said CSSHBO in a press release.

The Western Quebec School Board (WQSB) is also affected. George Singfield, WQSB director general, said the bigger impact is on the board office and less so on the schools because staff in schools provide direct services to students. This also means that if a staff member whose position falls under this freeze goes out on maternity leave, they cannot be replaced.

The Fédération du personnel de soutien scolaire (CSQ), the only federation that exclusively represents school support staff in schools and service centers, denounces the public service freeze:

“Not only is the Ministry of Education not able to identify which job classes will be considered ‘direct services to students,’ it will also create an expert review committee with a mission to establish a list of staff who can no longer be recruited. The Ministry hypocritically assures us this freeze will have no impact, or almost no impact on students. They must have a very poor understanding of the education network to make such a statement.”

The Quebec Treasury Board has yet to announce an end date for the hiring freeze​.

Sophie Demers

LJI Reporter

With poppies on their jackets, hundreds gathered at the Aylmer Cenotaph to remember those who lost their lives fighting for Canada. Opening with a land acknowledgement, speeches were given, poems were read, and wreaths were laid at the foot of the monument.

Veterans and active members of all branches of the Canadian Armed Forces were present, as well as representatives from the RCMP. Local politicians in attendance were Greg Fergus, Liberal MP for Hull-Aylmer and Speaker of the House of Commons, representing the federal government, André Fortin, Deputy for Pontiac, representing the provincial government, and Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette, representing the municipal government. Councillors Steven Boivin (Aylmer), Gilles Chagnon (Lucerne) and Caroline Murray (Deschênes) also participated in the ceremony.

Photo: Sophie Demers

Sophie Demers

LJI Reporter

Gatineau’s budget week brought about many new initiatives by the city, one of which is the plan to implement parking lot taxes, starting in 2025. The city administration studied 32 different taxation scenarios before choosing the one best suited for the city.

In 2024, a parking lot tax was applied to parking lot operators and office buildings in Gatineau. In 2025, this will extend to all non-residential buildings in the city. This new tax is projected to generate an estimated $27 million for the city.

The objectives for the parking lot tax include diversifying city revenue to meet the city’s growing responsibilities, addressing environmental issues such as encouraging public transit, and reducing greenhouse gases. Other objectives include reducing asphalt and concrete surfaces that create heat islands, increasing urban densification, development of green spaces, and land optimization.

Gatineau had a third-party organization, AppEco, do an economic study of their revenue diversification measures. AppEco provided three conclusions: the tax must be high enough to change user behaviour; it must provide an incentive to transform the parking lot into more productive spaces; and that even doubling the current rates would have little to no impact on business competitiveness.

The executive committee recommended a progressive rate with a 650 m2 credit. This is equivalent to 22 parking spaces. This 650 m2 credit safeguards most small businesses from the tax. However, this credit would not apply to parking lot operators.

“I want to note the importance of the fact that 60% of the cases are without financial impact,” said Steve Moran, president of the executive committee, and Hull-Wright councillor. “Eighty per cent of the impacted businesses will see less than 10% increase on their tax bill. And I also insist on the strata, the progress of the measure; that is to say, that small businesses are eliminated. The more we grow, the more we have a parking lot area, the more we will be taxed. This is a very important element in encouraging developers to incorporate less parking spaces and encouraging public and active transit.

Four areas will be excluded from the tax, a section of Old Aylmer, the Buckingham urban core, two sections of Gatineau, specifically Notre-Dame and the Masson-Angers revitalization area. The parking lot tax will be 25% higher for buildings in city centres, as detailed in city documents. The city states that these areas are aimed at making the city more compact, user-friendly, allowing for quality living environments with an efficient public transit system. For example, the downtown core.

“We have to find a way to at least benefit the services to the affected businesses after imposing this tax. That’s why I proposed, during an executive committee meeting, to offer things to these commercial zones,” said Point-Gatineau councillor Mike Duggan. “For example, to help with zoning plans for their redevelopment, revitalization, densification. And it was added to the recommendations, so I’m happy to see it.”

Buckingham councillor and executive committee member, Edmond Leclerc also weighed in, stating, “I think we have a regulation that allows us to target our objectives, and I think we included the concerns and demands of our business owners, and I thank them for participating.

Photo: Steve Moran, president of the executive committee and Hull-Wright Councillor, speaking in support of the parking lot tax on November 5 during the Gatineau 2025 budget discussions (SD) Photo: Sophie Demers

Sophie Demers

LJI Reporter

Developers, Luc Quenneville of Dév Méta and Pierre Ali Nordev, co-founder, held a public information session about their 15-storey, 251-unit apartment complex project slated for the south-east corner of the Vanier and Boulevard Allumettières intersection at 435 Vanier Road.

The information session was requested by Caroline Murray, Deschênes councillor, and Anik des Marais, Mitigomijokan councillor. Aylmer has been experiencing a development boom over the last decade and citizens have raised concerns about the increased traffic on Vanier Road many times before. There are plans to expand Vanier; studies are being done in preparation for this work. However, the development project proposals have not ceased.

“An important point for Luc and me, as co-developers and partners of the project, is that we have been here for a very long time,” said Ali. “We have properties in different sectors of Gatineau. We have at least 15 years to develop.”

Residents voiced their support for many aspects of the project, such as the inclusion of 27 affordable housing units, a variety of units ranging from 1- to 3-bedroom, efficient energy standards, thoughtful architecture, and a shuttle bus that residents could use to lessen traffic. However, their main concerns were pedestrians, road safety, and increased traffic in the area.

Traffic and road safety concerns

After a traffic expert presented their findings from their traffic studies, one resident spoke up to say that this did not represent the lived reality of pedestrians and drivers in the area. Highlighting that some of the traffic data used in the study was from 2022, during the pandemic when a large portion of the population was working from home, while other data dated back to 2011.

“Sometimes I do my groceries in Ottawa instead of here because of the disaster that trying to get to Maxi is between 4 pm and 7:30 pm. It’s impossible,” said one resident at the information session. “It’s too complicated. I’ve been living in Champlain Park for 18 years. I think you’re doing a great project. It’s beautiful. But the infrastructure in the area is not there to support it. You don’t consider the development that is currently underway. This will add to the already significant traffic problems.”

Others stated that the area was poorly serviced by public transit and expressed frustration that development was going forward based on the future expansion of Vanier and the tramway which will take years to be fully completed.

The project details an exit onto rue des Attikameks which then leads to an intersection with Vanier between Tim Hortons and a Daycare Centre. This intersection has no lights, and many residents have raised their concerns over the safety of the intersection and how long it takes to turn onto Vanier when there is traffic.

Halfway through the information session, it became evident that the residents’ concerns could not be solved by the developers but were directed at the City of Gatineau.

“We want to hear from our mayor,” said Nina Dani, a resident of the area who mobilized residents through social media to attend the meeting. “Many of the projects are causing tension in Aylmer that is now amalgamated with Gatineau and it’s changing its character.”

Gatineau Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette, who was present for the meeting, took the floor saying “There is a part of this the developer does not control. The Vanier area is not in the promoter’s court. A year from now, there will be a development fund that we will have to pay to help us expand Vanier. This is part of the process. Tonight, I am here because I wanted to hear from you. I know that this is a controversial project for which there are important priorities. It is very enlightening to hear from you tonight. We will have discussions with the promoter. I will have discussions with the city council.”

She reiterated that a decision had not yet been made about the project. The official decision by the municipal council will take place during the December 10 council meeting in Salle Jean-Despréz at Maison du Citoyen, 25 rue Laurier.

“I’m really worried about mobility in the sector. Aylmer residents are reluctant to have projects on Vanier and it is not the first time that citizens have opposed one in the area,” said Councillor Murray. “The artery is always congested. And then, particularly with this project, the fact that the entrance is through Rue des Attikameks, where there is not even a traffic light, creates a lot of insecurity. “There are a lot of people in this neighbourhood who walk, for example, to D’Arcy McGee High School. I am hoping for changes to the project to make it safer, so that citizens find it more acceptable.”

Photo: Maude Marquis-Bissonnette, Gatineau Mayor, addressing frustrated residents during the November 12 information session held with developers of the 435 Vanier Road project.

Photo: Sophie Demers

Sophie Demers

LJI Reporter

The Centre Intégré de Santé et des Services sociaux de l’Outaouais (CISSSO) is taking steps to help English speakers navigate the healthcare system. “ALLO, do you speak English?” is an initiative that started in Côte-Nord and is slowly spreading to different regions of Quebec. The project allows healthcare workers to identify themselves with yellow ID cards, indicating they can communicate in English.

This is available to all healthcare staff and volunteers, including nurses, doctors, and pharmacists in all departments.

“When we say that we speak English, it is a point of reference for our English-speaking community, whether in Pontiac or Maniwaki,” said Joanne Dubois, assistant to the director of the local network of Pontiac health services, and coordinator for English services and the ethno-cultural community with CISSSO. “Patients who come to any of our hospitals can look for the yellow identifying badges and feel reassured that they can ask for help, and they will be understood. So, it is a point of reference for someone who is English-speaking to navigate the health system.”

According to Dubois the initiative has been very well received by staff with over 1,000 employees within the organization wearing the yellow card after an internal campaign. “We get calls every week asking for more yellow ID badges,” she said.

To get the word out to the English-speaking communities, the department put signs up in all CISSSO buildings, as well as online. They also partnered with Connexions and the Western Quebec School Board to get the information out.

This initiative is separate from the translation and interpretation available with CISSSO. The healthcare facilities that are designated bilingual by the Quebec Health Ministry are required to have employees are required to serve patients in English.

Dubois noted that the project demonstrates acts of kindness in the healthcare system, highlighting proudly that one of the first individuals to wear the yellow ID badge was CISSSO’s president, Marc Bilodeau.

Photo: Example of the yellow badges worn by health care professionals and staff to indicate that they can speak English.

Photo: Courtesy

Sophie Demers

Local Journalism Initiative

OUTAOUAIS – Kitigan Zibi Anishinàbeg (KZA) has launched a major regional initiative through their Natural Resource and Wildlife Office (NRWO) to enhance biodiversity protection across their traditional territory. The project will use a unique governance model balancing Indigenous leadership and collaboration with non-Indigenous local governments and institutions.

The initiative has three main objectives: community engagement – gather the community for consultations and discussions to share knowledge and possible solutions; assess regional biodiversity to identify priority areas for protection and restoration; and create a strategic plan outlining how to protect habitats, restore degraded ecosystems, and preserve endangered species.

The KZA Stewardship Plan for Anishinàbeg Aki Conservation and Biodiversity is a two-year project with two phases. Phase 1 involves creating a collaborative regional working group led by KZA to develop a regional action plan to protect key areas. Phase 2 will consist of enforcing protections to conserve 30% of land and freshwater ecosystems and restore 20% of degraded areas.

This initiative follows the UN Biodiversity Conference (COP15), where the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework was adopted by over 190 nations, including Canada. The framework aims to conserve 30% of land and freshwater ecosystems and restore 30% of degraded ecosystems by 2030.

“Collaboration and information sharing is key. We want to create a collaborative atmosphere so we can share all the data and information gathered. A lot of the time, governments, organizations, and NGOs work towards similar goals, but don’t work together or know what the other is doing,” explains Jonathan Côté, spokesperson for KZA and Guardian Nagadjitodjig Aki. “If we’re going to try and reach this 30 by 30 goal, we need to start working together for the greater good.”

Collaboration with municipal representatives from Gatineau and Outaouais MRCs, along with academic and scientific experts, community members, elders, and youth will provide a comprehensive understanding of biodiversity across the Outaouais.

KZA is calling on community members with expertise in traditional knowledge, local history, and biodiversity to join the advisory committee to help shape the project.

“We want to ensure everybody’s voices are heard and considered when planning and determining this roadmap,” said Côté, while highlighting the importance of Indigenous knowledge, which thinks about seven generations ahead. “I’m very passionate about this project. I have a young granddaughter, so it’s about thinking about their future as well.”

Photo – The official launch of the project took place on October 21 at the KZA Cultural Centre near Maniwaki. Côté said there was a great turn out, with over 70 people attending from all walks of life; regional, provincial, and federal government representatives, community members and project leaders from the KZA NRWO. (Alice Beaudoin)

Sophie Demers
Local Journalism Initiative

MRC PONTIAC – A call for projects was announced in early June by the Environment Ministry (MELCCFP) for conservation projects for public forests and waterways.

The initiative was in line with Quebec’s commitments made at the 15th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (COP15) to protect 30% of land and waterways by 2030. As of March this year, almost 17% of Quebec’s territory was
protected. The government will need to double the size of the current protected areas to meet its target.

The Outaouais chapter of the Canadian Parks and Wildness Society (CPAWS) coordinated the submission of seven projects for the Pontiac, proposing a total of 2,111 square kilometers of protected area.

1. Noire and Coulonge Rivers corridor
This 403 km2 area is home to a wealth of significant landscapes and ecosystems including various bodies of water and a mature forest. Bryson Lake Lodge and the Forant Lake Outfitter are located within the targeted area and Lodge owners Laurel and Denis LeBrun said they support the proposition. A May 2024 inventory identified more than 40 species in the area, including six with provincial and federal conservation status. The proposed 403 km2 will expand on the 852 km2 already designated as a conservation area last year.

2. Lac-Brûlé
This area covers 837 km2, the majority of which is in the MRC Pontiac. A small portion, 48 km2, is located in MRC Vallée-de-l’Or and 205 km2 are in MRC Vallée-de-la-Gatineau.

The project was proposed following a meeting with the Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg community who highlighted that mining exploration in the area has environmental repercussions on the Coulonge River. If the conservation proposal is accepted by the Ministry, the mining exploration will be stopped, according to Yanny Ritchot, CPAWS biologist and conservation project manager for Western Quebec.

Additionally, a 2020 field study by biologists identified 55 area species that are considered at risk.

3. Lac-Dumont-Ellen-Murray
CPAWS found several landscapes of interest when they visited this 172 km2 area in July. A 2012 plant inventory indicated the presence of old-growth forest in the area. The forest is 80 years old, populated by sugar maples and red oak. Another section showed signs of being 100 years old.

4. Lac-Saint-Patrice and Poussière River
This 490 km2 area contains parts of two controlled harvesting zones: ZEC Saint-Patrice and ZEC Rapides-des-Joachims. CPAWS proposed this conservation area because of the interesting landscapes, important aquatic ecosystems, and its use by the community for outdoor activities.

5. Coulonge-River-East
CPAWS proposed this 510 km2 area for conservation due to the presence of animal and plant species of interest, important ecosystems, and aquatic environments. The area is home to rare and endangered species including the wood turtle and Canada warbler. A 2020 study found the presence of 55 at-risk species in the Noire and Coulonge watersheds.
CPAWS also highlights that the Coulonge watershed is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, which can contribute to the local economy by supporting tourism-related businesses. The proposal suggests promoting “trackless ecotourism” to preserve the area’s natural flora and fauna.

6. Presqu’île du Lac à l’Indienne
This 823 km2 area was proposed due to the presence of important ecosystems, environments of interest and its significance for outdoor activities. The proposal covers part of the Nilgaut Lake area and part of the Municipality of Otter Lake. Eagles’ nests have been observed as well as the presence of 100-year-old trees, indicating an old-growth forest.

7. Alvars and riverbanks of Bristol and Clarendon
CPAWS proposed this 16 km2 area because of the presence of important ecosystems, environments of interest, and its popularity for outdoor activities. The majority of the area is located in MRC Pontiac, however 3 km2 are in the MRC des Collines-de-l’Outaouais.

The area has a range of wetlands, forests, and riverbanks, as well as a variety of species, including some at-risk. Studies have found a total of 110 bird species, and 57 species whose status is being evaluated.

According to Ritchot, the proposals will be analyzed by MELCCFP. In the next year, a list of retained areas will be announced. The change to conservation status should be finalized for the selected areas in two years.

SOPHIE DEMERS

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

MRC PONTIAC – In the spring, MRC Pontiac put out a call for interest for solar energy projects. According to Rachel Floar-Sandé, economic development officer at the MRC, they’ve been talking to various companies interested in developing a solar project in the Pontiac.

The MRC decided to connect with energy companies because the region has the best photovoltaic potential in Quebec, according to Solar Quebec. Simply put, the higher the potential, the greater the amount of energy that can be produced by a solar panel. Additionally, Hydro-Quebec will be announcing a call for tenders for solar projects in December 2024.

“We wanted to be prepared for that call,” Floar-Sandé said. “We received submissions to our call for interest and we’ve been in discussions with one solar energy company, Innergex.”

Innergex is an international, 100% renewable energy developer based in Longueuil that is active across Canada, the United States, France, and Chile. They’ve been operating solar energy facilities for over 10 years, specifically in Hawkesbury and Sault Ste. Marie.

“Our main concern is social acceptability, which is why we’re collaborating with these energy developers to create the best project possible for Pontiac,” said Floar-Sandé.

On August 21, the MRC Pontiac resolved to sign a confidentiality agreement with Innergex. Floar-Sandé explained this is the first step in collaborating with the developer.

Earlier this month, Pontiac took another step by signing a collaboration agreement with Innergex to work with them on social acceptability, including information sessions with residents, and to assist Innergex in finding land. Floar-Sandé clarified there are no financial obligations related to the agreement. Innegex plans to respond to Hydro-Quebec’s upcoming call for tenders.

“We strive to be a transparent and community-focused developer, and we will keep community members posted as soon as we have updates,” said Guillaume Perron- Piché, senior communication advisor for Innergex.

Sophie Demers

LJI Reporter

Plans for the construction of a three-storey eight-unit multifamily building at 13 rue Symmes have been submitted to the City of Gatineau. The site located in Old Aylmer is currently cleared after a house fire destroyed the previous two-unit home in January 2023.

The developers have asked for an exemption from the city’s requirement to have a structural or underground parking lot. Both the project and the exemption are recommended by the Service de l’Urbanisme et de Développement Durable (SUDD).

The architecture and heritage value of the Old Aylmer neighbourhood require new constructions to blend into the surrounding area. According to city documents, the proposed building is inspired by similar architecture. The four trees on the property will be preserved and seven more trees will be planted.

The owner presented the project to the Aylmer Heritage Association (APA), and the association responded with several recommendations. The owner followed some of the recommendations. Those not followed were to reduce the height to 2.5 storeys, the number of units to six, and to reduce the number of balconies.

The applicants note that they would not be reducing the number of units, as their goal is to densify the neighbourhood.

Photo 1: The previous building located at 13 rue Symmes that burned down in January 2023

Photo 2: The proposed construction on the now cleared site. A three-storey, eight-unit multifamily building.

Photo credit: Courtesy of the city of Gatineau

One old Aylmer house and two Vanier buildings facing demolition to build multi-unit structures

Sophie Demers

LJI Reporter

Three demolition requests have been submitted to Gatineau’s demolition request committee (CDD) for Aylmer. The first is located at 29 rue du Centre in Old Aylmer; the other two are on adjacent properties at 891 and 901 chemin Vanier. All demolition requests are recommended by the Service de l’Urbanisme et de Développement Durable (SUDD).

29 rue du Centre

The Old-Aylmer house was built in 1885 and, according to city documents, is considered to have “low heritage value”. The home is valued at $158,300 and the land at $289,900. According to a 2022 inspection, the building’s foundation is cracked and causing water damage. The structure is wet and rotten in some places. The cost to repair the home is estimated at $250,000.

The proposed plan after demolition is a three-storey eight-unit residential building. The project will be evaluated by the municipality if the demolition request is approved.

891 and 901 chemin Vanier

The adjacent houses on chemin Vanier are also facing demolition to build five four-storey apartment buildings, each containing 24 units, for a total of 120 units. However, if the demolition is approved, the construction plans must also be approved by the municipal council. Neither building is on Gatineau’s built heritage lists. According to city documents, both buildings have several sanitary and structural problems.

The 891 chemin Vanier house was built in 1955. It is valued at $283,300 and the land at $189,800. The 901 chemin Vanier house was built in 1945 and is valued at $324,300 and the land at $183,300.

The CDD meeting will take place on August 20 at 4:30 pm in the Mont-Bleu Room on the 1st floor of the Maison du Citoyen located at 25 rue Laurier. Any Gatineau resident wishing to address the committee must be present at the meeting. Others interested in watching the meeting can do so online.

Within 30 days of the Committee’s decision, any Gatineau resident may request a review of the decision. This will suspend the demolition until the council reviews the appeal. This process costs $122.50.

Photos: (Left) The house currently located at 29 rue du Centre and (right) the developer’s plan for the cleared land, should the demolition request and the project be approved.

Photos Credit: Ville de Gatineau

Sophie Demers

Local Journalism Initiative 

SHAWVILLE – The local healthcare users committee held their first annual general meeting September 23 at the CLSC in Shawville. Formed earlier this year, the Pontiac user committee advocates for the rights of healthcare system users and addresses their concerns.

According to committee president Jennifer Larose, the meeting was well attended with over 25 present. The agenda included review of administrative work for the committee and addressing recent concerns about food quality for patients within the medical system.

After receiving complaints about food quality, the user committee launched an investigation, and work is being done to improve the situation. “This is just one example of what we do and how we advocate for the healthcare system’s users. We have more work planned,” said Larose.

Representatives from the Centre intégré de santé et des services sociaux de l’Outaouais (CISSSO) were also present, however CISSSO was unable to respond to an interview request by press time.

Jean Pigeon, the director of the Gatineau Health Foundation and representative for the activist organization SOS Outaouais, was invited to discuss the challenges facing the healthcare system in the region.

SOS Outaouais is a newly formed coalition that seeks to unite the voices of citizens to address the current state of the healthcare system, including the disparity in access and quality of healthcare in the Outaouais compared to other regions in Quebec.

According to the Outaouais Development Observatory, an organization linked to the University of Quebec in Outaouais, in terms of funding, there is $450 missing per resident in the Outaouais. In other words, there is a $180 million per year deficit in healthcare funding for the region.

Pigeon also highlighted salary issues for healthcare workers, which must be raised to compete with Ontario positions. The activist stated that SOS Outaouais was well received by participants.

SOPHIE DEMERS

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

SHAWVILLE – Residents may have noticed a recent increase in housing in the Shawville area with many new apartments.

Developer Les Maisons PAJ is responsible for creating this housing. Current projects include: four 2- bedroom units at 518 King Street, a multi-unit building at 360 King Street, and a triplex on Main Street across from the United Church. There are also plans to build 18 more units on King Street and 12 additional units in the area in 2025.

Two-bedroom units are currently listed for rent at $1,300 a month. Despite multiple attempts, Les Maisons PAJ didn’t respond to the Journal’s requests for information by press time.

“We’re finding there’s more interest in the Pontiac, especially from private builders and people looking to renovate,” said Rachel Soar-Flandé, economic development officer for housing with the MRC Pontiac.

When asked about affordable housing in the region, Soar-Flandé highlighted there are nine buildings totalling 121 units of social housing for seniors in the region. There’s currently no affordable housing projects for families or other low-income individuals.

“It’s quite a complicated process. But we’ve been discussing with certain municipalities the possibility of finding available land for an affordable housing project. There are other challenges as private buildings often don’t want to build these projects because of the high costs,” said Soar-Flandé explaining some municipalities are limited for projects like these because they don’t have adequate water or sewage infrastructure.

Shawville Mayor Bill McCleary echoed Soar- Flandé’s comments about the new construction. “It’s great because we need the housing and it’s good for the town. Most of the comments I get are good. I have an occasional person who doesn’t like the look of them, but we can’t keep everybody happy.”

When asked if the new apartments are affordable for Shawville residents, McCleary stated, “What are the options? If the rent is too low, it attracts the wrong sort of people.”

McCleary said it’s difficult to determine what affordable is as it depends on each individual’s income. However, he says the units will increase the population in Shawville, which he considers a net positive for the town.

Sophie Demers

LJI Reporter

In December of last year, My Catering Group purchased the Chelsea vineyard and sugar shack, Le Vignoble de Chelsea. Le Vignoble de Chelsea will be the closest vineyard to the nation’s capital and will be used for farm-to-table catered events.

Owner and founder of My Catering Group, Derick Cotnam, wants to make the location an agri-tourism destination. In order to do this, the sugar shack will need some upgrades. Using a Quebec crowdfunding website, La Ruche, and selling tickets to a fundraising soirée, the new owners of the site were able to surpass their $20,000 fundraising goal. The “party with a purpose” event took place on September 29, the event consisted of food, music and drinks that were enjoyed by all. The funds raised totaled $21,945.

The new owners are working closely with the MRC des Collines-de-l’Outaouais, Tourisme Outaouais and Juniper Farms to get to know the community and prioritize sustainability. The upgrades will mostly be updating equipment throughout the rest of the year just in time for next year’s sugar shack season. Equipment upgrades will include an oil-fired evaporator, tubing, pumps, and syrup containers, tanks, and pans.

Le Vignoble de Chelsea is located at 1582 Route 105 in Old Chelsea.

Photo: Le Vignoble de Chelsea

Photo credit: courtesy

Sophie Demers

LJI Reporter

The former pulp mill in Thurso was lively on September 9 for the official launch of Évolys, the company that will be taking over the industrial site. Évolys was created by Canadian mining giant Rio Tinto and American company Aymium, with the goal of accelerating decarbonization in the metal industry. Specifically, on reducing greenhouse gas emissions created by Rio Tinto Iron and Titanium facilities. The existing Fortress pulp mill buildings will be redeveloped to build a new renewable metallurgical biocarbon plant using forest residues.

Évolys aims to be operational in 2025. It will create over 30 permanent jobs, and an additional 50 jobs for construction. This is welcome news for Thurso, which took major losses when the Fortress pulp mill closed five years ago.

“These last five years have not been easy for the community. It has not been easy for families,” said Thurso Mayor Benoit Lauzon, “families who have been forced to move to continue working. We hope to see them come back home in the next few years, to come and work on this new site here with the Évolys company.”

The first phase of the operations consists of a $50 million investment. The initial capacity will be 50,000 tonnes of biocarbon annually. In terms of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, this represents taking 30,000 cars off the road.

“In collaboration with Évolys Québec, our government is breathing new life into these facilities [that are] of great importance to Thurso and the surrounding area. The project will create jobs for the people of Papineau and stimulate our local economy. I’m very proud of the work accomplished over the past few years to revive this industrial site, to the benefit of the entire Outaouais region.” said Mathieu Lacombe, MNA for Papineau, Minister of Culture and Communications, Minister responsible for Youth and Minister responsible for the Outaouais region.

The Évolys project helps Rio Tinto’s goal of being at net zero carbon emission by 2050. This reflects the Quebec government’s commitment to be carbon neutral by 2050 as well.

Biocarbon is created using biomass, Évolys plans to partner with the local forestry industry for their biomass supply, which will consist of pulp quality round wood, forest residues, and sawmill residues. This will support the existing industries in the region.

“This project is much more than an industrial revival. It symbolizes our ability to evolve toward a more sustainable future and to preserve quality jobs. The forestry industry is thus coming back to life. This is therefore good news for Thurso and for the entire ecosystem, because jobs will be secured in our city and everywhere in Outaouais,” said Lauzon. “The creation of Évolys is perfectly in line with the vision we have of our territory.”

Rio Tinto is a mining giant in Canada; they produce aluminum, titanium dioxide, iron ore, diamonds, and scandium, and they operate eight hydroelectric power plants, and two research centres.

Aymium produces biocarbon that can be used to replace fossil fuels, specifically in the production of metals, energy, for agriculture, and air and water purification. The company is based in the United States.


Photo: From left to right, Sophie Bergeron, Executive Director of Rio Tinto Iron & Titanium and Diamonds; Benoit Lauzon, Mayor of Thurso and Warden of the Papineau MRC; Mathieu Lacombe, Minister of Culture and Communications, Minister responsible for Youth, Minister responsible for the Outaouais region and Member of the National Assembly for Papineau; Pierre Renaud, Mayor of the Canton of Lochaber-Partie-Ouest; and, James Mennel, Chief Executive Officer of Aymium. Provincial and municipal government representatives, along with executives from Rio Tinto and Aymium at the September 9 official launch of Évolys in Thurso.

Photo: Sophie Demers