Taylor Clark

Pontiac teaching positions filled despite provincial shortage

TAYLOR CLARK

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

MRC PONTIAC: Although almost 6,000 positions remained vacant in Quebec by the end of the summer, the teaching shortage didn’t hamper the start of the new academic year at Pontiac schools.

Weeks before the school year kicked off, Bernard Drainville, Minister of Education, announced that 5,704 teaching positions had yet to be filled across the province; a 33% decrease compared to the same time last year. The 80% increase in enrollment for the past academic year was attributed to immigration, causing nearly 3,700 new teaching positions to be created.

George Singfield, director general of the Western Québec School Board, said recruitment wasn’t as challenging as the previous year, but the August 8 deadline “was hard to meet.”

The signing of the new collective agreement for teaching staff meant positions had to be filled no later than August 8 “to guarantee greater stability at the start of the school year and more time for teachers to prepare,” according to the Ministry.

“We still had people we needed to hire as of August 8, but we mostly had all our people hired at our schools,” said Singfield. “And we’ve reduced the number of non-legally qualified teachers we have in our schools this year.”

Quebec has turned to educators without teaching certificates to fill the gap in teachers missing from the classroom. While the Education Act requires someone to hold a teaching permit issued by the Minister of Education to teach in Quebec, the minister may allow school boards to hire candidates without teacher training when no qualified personnel are available.

According to the Auditor General of Québec, more than a quarter of the teachers who taught during the 2020 to 2021 school year were unqualified.

“The goal is to get ourselves to a place where all our teachers are qualified. And I don’t mean to take away from teachers who are in our schools who are non-legally qualified. We value them as well and support them, but the goal is to get everybody qualified,” said Singfield.

To counter the shortage, institutions like TÉLUQ University introduced shorter training courses for nonlegally qualified teachers already working in schools. The university committed to developing new 30-credit study programs in seven teaching disciplines.

Denis Rossignol, director general of the Centre de services scolaire des Haut- Bois-de-l’Outaouais, said French schools had all their positions filled by the deadline, but not all the educators have teaching certifications.

“We’re having trouble filling our positions with people who are qualified … It’s all over the world, not just in Quebec or Canada,” said Rossignol.

The 2023-2024 report by the Auditor General revealed the saturation of unqualified teachers is affecting the quality of educational services, which can lead to learning delays and ultimately dropouts, adding to learning delays acquired during the COVID pandemic.

“I don’t want parents to think that because the teachers are young people who aren’t legally qualified that we don’t have good supervision and students are at risk,” said Rossignol. “There is a certain amount of risk, but we do everything we can to make sure the children are well looked after by the staff.”

In fact, Rossignol said its success rates have increased despite having some schools staffed 50% with unqualified personnel.

The Ministry of Education has stated it plans to increase its network of close to 8,000 non-legally qualified teachers by 4,200 within three years.

Pontiac teaching positions filled despite provincial shortage Read More »

Aylmer mom brings self-defence to the community with the help of martial arts school

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

A hair-raising encounter with a stranger left an Aylmer woman determined to build a safer community.

“At that moment I realized I’ve never actually taken self-defence and I wasn’t 100 per cent sure what I should have done in that situation,” said Kathleen Fortin. “Everything goes through your head when something like that happens. You don’t think it’s ever going to happen to you.”

With her baby in tow, Fortin set about on an everyday trip to a local big box store. As she checked things off her list, she got an eery feeling they were being followed. Testing her hunch, Fortin began maneuvering down random aisles, but the stranger remained on her tail.

“This person ended up following me to my vehicle and everything,” said Fortin.

Realizing the stranger knew her vehicle, Fortin returned inside to get the help of an employee. Once the stranger was out of sight, Fortin loaded her car and headed to the closest police station to file a report.

Though shaken by the incident, Fortin shared her experience on social media in hopes of organizing a course to equip the community with the know-how to keep themselves safe. “You don’t realize how scary it is in those situations until it happens to you, and how important it is.”

She was quickly met with comments and private messages about similar experiences. “It was scary that it’s a common thing happening. People didn’t feel safe and didn’t know how to respond to these situations.”

The overwhelming response led Fortin to team up with Outlaw Martial Arts to deliver an introduction to self-defence workshops for women as well as teens and tweens. Focusing on defending against an attack from a stranger, attendees will learn ways to stay safe and what signs to pick up on.

Women have the choice between two sessions while those aged 10 to 15 will be grouped together in a later workshop. All sessions will be held on November 2 at Christ Church in Aylmer. The workshops will also double as a fundraiser with all the proceeds going to the church. “We’re helping the community in different ways all at once.” The minimum cost is $25 per participant, but donations are also being accepted via e-transfer to kbyrne@outlook.com.

Leading the sessions will be sensei Mike Lance, a third-degree black belt in traditional jiu-jitsu, a black belt in combat jiu-jitsu, and a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. At his side, his wife and business partner Lija Logan, is also a black belt in traditional jiu-jitsu.

“The beautiful part about jiu-jitsu is it’s the opposite of fighting,” said Lance. “Jiu-jitsu is avoiding and transferring weight and learning to manipulate the joints.”

In boxing, Muay Thai, and Taekwondo, the fighters’ goal is to strike their opponents, while the core of jiu-jitsu lies in using an opponent’s force against themselves.

“It’s not guaranteeing that you’re going to get out of every situation, or away from every single person who comes at you; it’s the confidence to be able to say, ‘at least I can think of something to do and not feel like the victim’,” said Logan.

Breaking these barriers and developing that confidence doesn’t happen in an hour and 15 minutes. Lance said it comes with practice and building your comfort level in inadequate positions.

“It’s a lot of repetition like anything you do,” said the sensei. “We want to make sure that what we do when we do these self-defence classes is an introduction to look at what’s possible.”

Those looking to continue their journey in self-defence can sign up for a four-week program at the event.

For more information and the registration sheet, search “Self-Defence Fundraiser in partnership with Outlaw Martial Arts” on Facebook events.

Photo: Outlaw Martial Arts coach Lija Logan and sensei Mike Lance have teamed up with an Aylmer mom to host self-defence sessions in the community.

Photo: Courtesy of Mike Lance

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Have your say on the designs shortlisted for the future Alexandra Bridge

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

Three shortlisted design concepts have been unveiled for the replacement of the historic Alexandra Bridge.

The designs, dubbed Echo, Rendez vous, and Motion, were presented to the board of directors of the National Capital Commission at a public meeting on October 1.

First serving as an interprovincial passage for trains, horses and wagons, electric streetcars, and pedestrians, the 123-year-old bridge was deemed to have reached the end of its life. In 2019, the Government of Canada directed the crossing be replaced within 10 years.

Working with the public, Indigenous communities, and stakeholders since 2020, Public Services and Procurement Canada and the National Capital Commission have narrowed down the designs to three concepts for the public’s viewing.

The first of the designs was Echo which reinterpreted the current bridge. But the design team’s lead bridge architect Martin Knight clarified that it was not a replica.

“The Echo bridge concept draws inspiration from the historic Alexandra Bridge, combining heritage with modern design. Featuring two V-piers and a refined twin structural truss, it honours the original bridge while remaining in scale with the landscape and with Kīwekī Point,” said Knight.

Spanning 210 metres, the concept would maintain a distinct identity while respecting the landscape of the National Capital Region. Indigenous expression was represented in the design with the inclusion of timbre members between the top cords, invoking the structural bracing of an Algonquin birchbark canoe.

The public spaces were marked by V-shaped supports. This gathering space could be enhanced with seating and seasonal canopies. Like all three design concepts, the pedestrian deck, and the public space were on the upstream side while the roadway was on the downstream. Cyclists would be able to breeze through the bridge’s centre without interrupting passersby with a naturally separated pedestrian deck.

Putting the Ottawa River centre stage as the defining environmental and social component of the landscape, the Rendez vous design wished to strengthen the concept of a meeting place.

“It appears to step lightly in the Kitche Zībī with a pair of graceful arches meeting at water level, acknowledging the river’s importance to the Algonquin Nations and defining a collective vision to create a bridge and urban landscape as a place of exchange,” said Knight.

The set of arches spanning 290 and 220 metres meet a single pier in the river. Although the pair reached more than 15 metres above the existing bridge at their crown, the architect said the arches’ height and transparency amplify views, providing a feeling of openness. Where the arches dip below deck level, the public space forms, creating a seasonal, flexible stage when closed to traffic.

The final design – Motion – took inspiration from the flow of the Ottawa River and the American eel, which calls the river home. “The architectural approach effortlessly blends with its surroundings, weaving a harmonious tapestry of land, water, and sky.”

Its defining three rolling arches mimic the flowing water below, rippling up and down from end to end. The heights of the arches vary with the central arch measuring 3.5 metres taller than the existing bridge and secondary arches 3.5 metres lower, creating a dynamic silhouette that was still in scale with its surroundings.

“The signature form of the bridge marks a new destination for the National Capital core area and provides a rich experience when viewed from below as well as from afar, matching another unique element to this much-loved river scene.”

Two open houses were held in Gatineau and Ottawa to give attendees one-on-one time with the project team in early October. The public can also provide feedback on the three concepts by completing an online survey on the National Capital Commission website until October 24.

The comments will be considered in the final design concept, which will be submitted for approval in spring 2025. The replacement work was expected to begin in 2028 with the new bridge to be operational in 2032.

Photo: The National Capital Commission wants the public’s input on the three concept designs proposed for the replacement of the Alexandra Bridge.

Photo: National Capital Commission Website

Have your say on the designs shortlisted for the future Alexandra Bridge Read More »

Arrests made in third homicide of the year

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

On September 26, a 56-year-old man and a 41-year-old woman known to Gatineau Police were arrested in connection with a homicide that occurred earlier that morning on boulevard des Allumettières.

In the early hours that day, officers responded to a person on the ground near the intersection of rue Saint-Rédempteur, whose state of consciousness was unknown. The man, 35-year-old Maxim Bourgon-Frigon, also known to police, was taken to the hospital where he was pronounced dead.

“His injuries could have been caused by a firearm,” said police. An autopsy was to be performed in Montreal to determine the cause of death.

A portion of boulevard des Allumettières was closed to traffic in both directions until the late afternoon as a larger perimeter was set up for the investigation. Close to 15 hours later, the two individuals were arrested by police.

This was the third homicide of the year to occur in Gatineau, after two incidents in April.

The investigation is ongoing. Police invited anyone with information related to the homicide to contact their information line 819-243-4636, option 1.

Photo: Gatineau Police are investigating their third homicide of the year after a 35-year-old man was found near the intersection of rue Saint-Rédempteur early on September 26.

Photo: Service de police de la Ville de Gatineau Facebook Page

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Second public consultation on Alexandra Bridge replacement set for October

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

The public will be able to have their say on the proposed design concepts for the replacement of the historic Alexandra Bridge at an upcoming public consultation.

In 2019, the Government of Canada ordered that the over 120-year-old bridge be replaced within 10 years, after a lifecycle cost analysis from the previous year found that replacing the bridge would not only save money but would also be less disruptive to the public.

Now, in the planning and design stages, the National Capital Commission has invited the public to participate in an open house in Gatineau or Ottawa. The sessions will allow citizens to view the proposed designs and provide feedback.

The Gatineau session will be held on October 2 at the Canadian Museum of History from 4 pm to 9 pm, while the open house on the other side of the river will be at the same time the following day at the Shaw Centre.

A third public consultation will be scheduled in the spring or summer of 2025 to review the reference design before moving on to the procurement and implementation stages.

Photo: The National Capital Commission will host two open house sessions to gain the public’s feedback on the proposed design concepts for the replacement of the Alexandra Bridge.

Photo: Taylor Clark

Second public consultation on Alexandra Bridge replacement set for October Read More »

PPU for Old Aylmer enters next phase

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

A vision for the future of Old Aylmer has begun to take shape after citizens participated in the first in a series of consultations for the sector’s Special Urban Planning Program (PPU) on September 18.

“It’s often said that you have to know where you come from to know where you are going,” said Aylmer district councillor Steven Boivin. “In other words, this beautiful and unique sector, Old Aylmer, we’re going to be able to define together. It’s a unique opportunity to define how we’re going to tell the next politician that this is how we want our sector.”

A PPU is a component of an urban plan that is defined by the Act respecting land use planning and development. Along with establishing a vision, it sets a direction for development based on the sector’s challenges, as well as the concerns, needs, and expectations of its residents. The firm L’Atelier Urbain was retained to lead the process and draft the PPU which focuses on the 2041 horizon.

Citizens were invited to participate in a vision workshop to contribute to the creation of a common vision for Old Aylmer. Participants expressed ideas on various themes such as development, public space, mobility, and the environment.

These themes were highlighted in the territorial diagnosis carried out from 2022 to 2023 where more than 160 citizens participated in activities to characterize the sector. The diagnosis allowed a precise portrait of the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and challenges of the sector to be made and serve as the basis of the PPU.

Residents can still have their say by participating in one of three more consultations over the next year. Come winter 2025, the public will be invited to imagine and design urban development scenarios for the sector by exploring various architectural and environmental aspects. A validation workshop will finalize and confirm an optimal urban development scenario in spring 2025. The consultation process will wrap up with an open house session in June 2025 where the complete PPU will be presented to the community before being adopted by municipal council in the fall of 2025.

For more information on the PPU and the consultation process, visit www.gatineau.ca/consultations.

Photo: Aylmer district councillor Steven Boivin and Deschênes district councillor Caroline Murray welcome residents to the first of four consultations to gain feedback on the development of the sector’s Special Urban Planning Program (PPU).

Photo: Taylor Clark

PPU for Old Aylmer enters next phase Read More »

“Online sale gone wrong” leads to three arrests in Gatineau sector

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

Gatineau Police reminded the public to exercise caution when entering private sales after three people were arrested following “an online sale gone wrong” in the Gatineau sector.

Officers responded to a call regarding a robbery in a parking lot at 25 chemin de la Savane on the evening of September 21. Police gathered that the individuals met at the location to make an exchange following an online sale.

The press release indicated the two sellers showed up with what appeared to be a firearm and a bladed weapon. “One of them then pointed the gun at the buyer, leading to an altercation between the three individuals,” said police.

All three people were injured during the altercation, with one of the sellers, a 25-year-old man from the Montreal area, still hospitalized as of September 23. The buyer was released without charge, while the 25-year-old seller and the accomplice, who is a minor, will face charges of armed assault, conspiracy, and robbery.

The investigation is ongoing.

Neutral zones

Police advised the public to utilize public spaces during busy hours or secure exchange areas to facilitate transactions following online sales. Secure exchange zones have been deployed to the parking lots of the police stations in the Gatineau and Hull sectors. Identified by blue markings and permanent signage, the neutral zones are under camera surveillance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

The neutral zones outside the police stations allow Gatineau residents to facilitate exchanges in a secure location with 24-hour surveillance.

Tips for sellers

As a seller, the police said you should always try to find out about the buyer before making the transaction. If their profile was created recently or provides little information, you should be suspicious. A seller should ensure the validity of the payment before handing over an item to a potential buyer, even if the buyer would like to inspect it before buying.

Tips for buyers

Like being a seller, buyers should learn about the seller before making a transaction. If the seller’s profile provides little information or was created recently, be wary. One should also be cautious if the asking price is much lower than the item’s value, especially if the seller indicates the item is new or rarely used. Asking questions and requesting more photos was also important. Reverse image searches can be done using search engines like “Google Images” to see if the item is listed somewhere else. Buyers should always ask to see the item before making a payment to spot any anomalies from a distance.

Photo (1): Gatineau Police highlight their secure exchange zones in the parking lots of the police stations in the Gatineau and Hull sectors for safe transactions after three people were arrested following an altercation over an online sale.

Photo (1): Service de police de la Ville de Gatineau Website

Photo (2): The neutral zones outside the police stations allow Gatineau residents to facilitate exchanges in a secure location with 24-hour surveillance.

Photo (2): Service de police de la Ville de Gatineau Website

“Online sale gone wrong” leads to three arrests in Gatineau sector Read More »

Widening of Vanier Road moves into feasibility study

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

After years of discussion, Gatineau has finally embarked on the feasibility study for the widening Vanier Road, between Pink and Aylmer Roads, with the environmental impact study to follow.

“We have an obligation, particularly through the environmental impact study, to ensure that the majority of people understand the progress of the file and can contribute at different stages,” interim director of urban planning and sustainable development Catherine Marchand told the Commission sur les transports, les déplacements durables et la sécurité on September 19.

Changing little since being the main thoroughfare in the 19th century, the roadway consists of no sidewalk or cycling path and little street lighting. Crossing the western sector of Gatineau from north to south, traffic issues have manifested along the axis over the years, particularly at the intersection of Boulevard des Allumetières, which falls under provincial jurisdiction. The current and anticipated levels of traffic have now made it necessary for the city to implement measures so as not to compromise its future travel capacity.

“We’re moving toward a much more extensive network that will not only include the tramway but also more extensive transport services,” said Marchand.

Vanier has been the subject of a development plan that included the proposal to widen the road to four lanes. The proposal was at the centre of a study in 2015, and the results led to another study in 2019 to find temporary measures to overcome the traffic issues.

The city adopted a regulation in 2023 “decreeing an interim control along Vanier Road between Pink Road and Aylmer Road,” to undertake the steps leading to the widening of the roadway after insufficient municipal influence and real estate growth in the sector.

Earlier this summer, the executive committee awarded a $2.85 million contract to WSP, an environmental consulting company, to carry out the required studies. Work of this scale involves government authorization and Gatineau hopes to complete the preliminary steps to obtain this approval in three years.

The feasibility study was expected to wrap up in April 2026 and led into the environmental impact study that will be filed with the Ministry of Environment, Fight Against Climate Change, Wildlife and Parks. After government approval, the city can move on with the design and complete the work.

In the meantime, Gatineau will host information and consultation processes to keep citizens up to date on the project.

“From day one,” Marchand stated, “we want to make sure that we consult the people who are the beneficiaries or those who are impacted by the proposals that will be made to ensure transparency throughout the process.”

The city planned to complete all its informative sessions by June 2026 and commence work by 2030.

Photo: The long-awaited feasibility study for the widening of Vanier Road was expected to be completed in 2026, with the work to begin by 2030.

Photo: Sophie Demers

Widening of Vanier Road moves into feasibility study Read More »

Province commits over $11.5 million to revamp the Guy-Sanche Library

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

The Government of Quebec invested $11,576,500 toward renovating and expanding Gatineau’s busiest library in its municipal network.

“The Guy-Sanche Library plays a central cultural role in the community, and it is essential that it continue to offer quality services in an environment adapted to today’s needs,” Gatineau Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette wrote in a press release. “This expansion and modernization project had become a necessity to meet the expectations of Gatineau residents.”

Located in the Maison de la culture de Gatineau, the library has become a major cultural hub. Having been designed over 30 years ago, the structure now requires sizeable renovations to not only meet the current standards but also the future needs of the population.

Chapleau’s MNA Mathieu Lévesque accompanied Mathieu Lacombe, the Minister of Culture and Communications, Minister responsible for Youth and Minister responsible for the Outaouais region, to make the announcement on September 16. The support stemmed from the Capital Assistance program under the Ministry of Culture and Communications, which will allow the City to receive a contribution of up to 50 per cent of the project’s eligible expenses.

The complete renovation and expansion will total $46.8 million and allow the library to double its current surface area to 5,355 m². Along with the expansion, the existing space will be redeveloped to incorporate areas for children and adolescents, individual and group workshops, new collections as well as multimedia recording and production rooms.

Photo: Fulfilling another campaign commitment, Gatineau Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette was pleased to receive provincial funding to go toward the expansion and modernization of the Guy-Sanche Library.

Photo: Maude Marquis-Bissonnette Facebook Page

Province commits over $11.5 million to revamp the Guy-Sanche Library Read More »

Outaouais Recreational Hockey League wants to bring hockey home

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

Hockey lovers are reliving their former glory in the rink with the Outaouais Recreational Hockey League.

“A lot of people wanted to play at a rink they haven’t played at since they were younger,” said league founder and community organizer Austin Gervais-Beauchamp.

What began as a few pickup games a week between friends in Aylmer has quickly transformed into a men’s league with hundreds of players, referees, standings, and statistics tracking.

“We kind of just wanted to bring hockey back to our region,” said Gervais-Beauchamp.

With a gap between minor hockey and the 30-plus Aylmer Hockey League, Gervais-Beauchamp and his friends restored to playing hockey in the neighbouring province.

“I should thank my friends and teammates. We were playing adult league in Kanata, and we’re all from Aylmer. It’s far and we wanted more ice, so we came up with the idea that maybe we should rent the ice in Aylmer every now and then.”

He said the next logical step was creating the men’s league.

The recreational hockey league consists of six teams and will begin its inaugural season this October, but Gervais-Beauchamp said a few spots were still available.

“We’re looking for individuals or groups of friends who would like to be placed on a team. But we also highly encourage people who can’t commit to playing full-time to come out and spare every now and then so they can at least experience what fun organized hockey can be in the region.”

The puck drops on October 8 at 10:30 pm at the Frank Robinson Arena for the first exhibition game where the Aylmer Yetis and Mighty Ducks will face off. Along with the Frank Robinson Arena, Gervais-Beauchamp said the league planned to utilize the Paul-et-Isabelle-Duchesnay Arena on Wednesdays at 10:30 pm and the Cholette Arena on Sundays at 10 pm. The locations and hours are subject to change as Gervais-Beauchamp works with the city to find better days or hours.

“Unfortunately, the hours are kind of tough because of minor hockey but it’s easily the closest we’ll get to reliving our childhood.”

A driving force in Gervais-Beauchamp’s community involvement was his grandfather Jacques Gervais, who has been forever immortalized in Aylmer with a street in his name.

“I kind of wanted to follow in his shoes … I love Aylmer just like he did, and I want to help bring the community together just like he did and make him proud.”

To register for a team, contact the league by email at orhlaylmerhull@gmail.com. To stay up to date with the league, visit their website at orhl.hockeyshift.com/home or join their Facebook group ORHL – Aylmer pick up.

Aylmer businesses looking to get involved with the league can also reach out by email. Gervais- Beauchamp said four of the six teams were still hoping to showcase local businesses with sponsored jerseys. Businesses can also donate to have their logo displayed on the league’s website.

“For me, all that matters is making the other people happy and seeing everyone back playing hockey again.”

Photo: Catch the season kickoff game of the Outaouais Recreational Hockey League in Aylmer on October 8 at the Frank Robinson Arena.

Photo: Outaouais Recreational Hockey League

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Seven hours to seal natural gas leak on Klock Road

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

Many residents were met with a smelly odour on the evening of September 18 after a natural gas pipe broke on Klock Road just north of Front Street.

Six residences were evacuated as Gazifère sealed the leak in a six-inch pipe.

Klock Road was completely closed between du Verger and Maurice-Duplessis streets from 4:10 pm to 11:15 pm.

Photo: Emergency services were on the scene of a natural gas leak on Klock Road on the evening of September 18.

Photo: Camera de nuit Facebook Page

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First phase of literary project debuts on Radio-Hull

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

“The beast had appeared on my path in the middle of the forest, and I remember its shrill cry, the fear that gripped my stomach, the speed at which I pedaled, the heart pounding in my skull. There’s just one other time I felt the same way – ten years later – on the same bike, by the way.” (Translated excerpt)

Stirring away from traditional storytelling, “La couleur des murs” is a voice-driven story by Karina Pawlikowski with no meaning, end or even a beginning.

“My work avoids narrative constructions where you can find, for example, spectacular and then twists and turns,” said Pawlikowski. “It’s really more into transmitting impressions, writing living tableaux.”

The intimate spoken piece took listeners on a journey of chance encounters and the random sequences of events that shape a person’s life, leaving one with the feeling they’ve chosen everything in advance, even down to the colour of the walls.

As an artist and writer, Pawlikowski focuses on the visual and literary arts. Her writing allows her to transmit her work in various forms, whether it be visual exhibitions or performances on stage. “My writing practice wanders a lot in these different disciplinary fields, but it’s still something that I also bring through my different professions as well.”

Pawlikowski has been teaching observation drawing at the École des arts et cultures de l’Université du Québec en Outaouais since 2018 and has become a familiar face at the Centre d’exposition L’Imagier after being named the executive director earlier this year.

Her works pull together writing, voice, drawing and everyday life, referencing intimacy, domestic space and those who inhabit it.

“What is special about this is that it is an ongoing project. What was broadcast on Radio-Hull is a first iteration.”

What Pawlikowski described as the first chapter hit the airways on September 11 as part of the fifth edition of Radio-Hull. The literary project first took the form of a manuscript and by joining forces with Transistor Média, “La couleur des murs” had its first life as an audio medium.

“I plan to work on this project, for sure … It is certain that the next form will be more literary.”

Photo: Artist and writer Karina Pawlikowski debuts the first phase of “La couleur des murs” with the help of Transistor Média on Radio-Hull.

Photo: William Sabourin

First phase of literary project debuts on Radio-Hull Read More »

Back to school ticket blitz sees close to 150 per cent more infractions than last year

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

Gatineau Police is reminding the public to stop for school buses and respect signage in school zones after issuing over 200 tickets in the first two weeks of the 2024-2025 school year.

“Children are vulnerable road users and motorists have a duty to take measures to ensure their safety. This includes respecting speed limits in school zones,” read the news release.

For close to two weeks, police officers and officers from the parking division carried out 79 intensive operations in school zones across Gatineau aimed at improving road safety. The operations led to 236 tickets being issued, signifying a 148 per cent increase from the same time last year.

Among the over 200 tickets, 146 were for speeding in school zones and six were for failing to comply with school bus flashing lights. These tickets were issued in less than nine school days.

During the entire 2023-2024 school year, police issued 33 tickets for failure to comply with school bus flashing lights. The six tickets issued in less than two weeks of this school year amount to about 18 per cent of the total number of tickets issued last year.

Drivers and cyclists are required to stop more than five metres from a school bus or minibus that has its red lights flashing or the stop sign activated. Failure to do so could result in an $80 to $100 fine for cyclists, and for vehicle drivers, a fine of $200 to $300 and nine demerit points. This rule does not apply, however, if there is a traffic median between the bus lane and the lane used by the cyclists and vehicle drivers.

Photo: As the 2024-2025 school year starts, Gatineau Police encourage the public to obey the regulations within a school zone to ensure the safety of students travelling to school.

Photo: Service de police de la Ville de Gatineau Facebook Page

Back to school ticket blitz sees close to 150 per cent more infractions than last year Read More »

Union representing federal employees apologizes after “boycott campaign”

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

The Public Service Alliance of Canada, the union representing federal employees, is backtracking after its National Capital Region chapter urged its members to “buy nothing” downtown on in-office days.

As of September 9, federal public servants have been mandated to work in the office for a minimum of three days per week, or four for executives, in accordance with the federal government’s new hybrid work policy.

Since the announcement of the return-to-work protocols in May, the labour union has challenged the cookie-cutter approach, deeming telework the best solution.

“Remote work has transformed the way we work. The Government of Canada has an opportunity to shape the future of work in ways that benefit not only workers but our communities,” read the labour union website.

Two days into the mandate, the chapter posted to Instagram encouraging its members to limit spending by packing their own lunches and buying from small local businesses.

“The needs of the downtown core shouldn’t fall on the back of workers and the federal public service,” wrote the union. “Our working conditions shouldn’t be leveraged by politicians to appease commercial interests.”

Concerned with what it refers to as a “boycott campaign”, the Gatineau Chamber of Commerce issued a press release, stating the downtown merchants were not responsible for return-to-work decisions and should not be targeted.

“Civil servants certainly play an important role in our region, but they are not the only option for ensuring the economic and social vitality of our downtown core. We have made this mistake in the past and it is crucial not to repeat it,” wrote the general manager of the Gatineau Chamber of Commerce Etienne Fredette.

The chamber invited constructive dialogue and common solutions to support a sustainable and diversified recovery of the downtown core. “It is imperative to build a resilient economy, capable of adapting to changes while meeting the needs of the community,” wrote Fredette.

The union’s post was removed the following day and replaced by a statement from the regional executive vice president Ruth Lau MacDonald, clarifying the chapter was not calling for a boycott of downtown businesses.

“After speaking to local business leaders and our members, I acknowledge that this approach was misguided, and our intention has never been to pit federal workers against small downtown businesses,” wrote Lau MacDonald.

The union recognized the challenges small business owners downtown faced with the COVID-19 pandemic and apologized for the confusion.

“At the same time, it’s important to remember that remote work has allowed small businesses outside the downtown core to thrive by giving workers the opportunity to support businesses in the neighbourhoods where they live and raise their families.”

Lau MacDonald argued that these businesses will also suffer as public service workers return to the downtown core. “We’re asking for the federal government to work together with municipalities and the business community to revitalize our city centres – without putting the burden on the federal workers.”

Gatineau Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette agreed that bringing our downtown core into a new age could not be placed on the shoulders of public servants.

“That’s why we’re moving forward on supporting commerce to really have an attractive offer in the downtown area, not just during office hours but so that people want to come on weekends, evenings, to enjoy the cultural offer of restaurants and shops,” said Marquis-Bissonnette.

Photo: Public Service Alliance of Canada’s executive vice president of the National Capital Region apologies after the union encouraged its members to minimize spending downtown as return-to-work protocols come into effect.

Photo: Public Service Alliance of Canada Instagram

Union representing federal employees apologizes after “boycott campaign” Read More »

People experiencing homelessness to be moved to Saint-Rédempteur Park

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

Saint-Rédempteur Park is to be redeveloped as Gatineau makes way for the relocation of 33 tents and 37 trailers while construction is underway at the Robert-Guertin Centre site.

“People experiencing homelessness are full-fledged citizens of the City of Gatineau and it is our duty to have everything in place to ensure that they have dignified living conditions that respect their person,” Hull-Wright district councillor and Commissioner for the Fight Against Homelessness Steve Moran.

While the City moves forward with Village Transition with the hope of opening the container village before the winter, those experiencing homelessness on the site will have to be relocated to allow for construction to begin.

Based on Gatineau’s analysis, Saint-Rédempteur Park would allow for easier set up of the tents in the short-term over the Allumettières area. To facilitate the move, the park will undergo three weeks of redevelopment to remove the play structures and vegetation.

Given the fragility of the red tents left over from the first phase of Devcore’s homelessness solution, 30 new tents will be installed at the site following the redevelopment work. As for the trailers, the site could possibly accommodate all the mobile homes, according to a presentation from the city. The temporary sanitary block was currently undergoing winterization to be accessible this winter while awaiting the installation of the permanent block.

“Gatineau is making sustained efforts to work collaboratively and implement structuring solutions. The solutions we are providing now are a first step in a series of actions that will be necessary to meet everyone’s needs,” said Moran.

Photo: The City of Gatineau provides a draft model of the plans for the Robert-Guertin Centre site to accommodate people experiencing homelessness.

Photo: City of Gatineau Presentation

People experiencing homelessness to be moved to Saint-Rédempteur Park Read More »

Enjoying the beer necessities this Oktoberfest in Vieux-Aylmer

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

5e Baron will be brewing up Oktoberfest celebrations for a weekend of festivities beginning on September 27.

“For us at 5e Baron, fall is synonymous with German lagers and good beer,” said Jacob Barrette, owner of the microbrewery.

For three days, 5e Baron will be serving up its own German-inspired beers, along with guest beers from breweries like Wills Beer, Godspeed Brewery, and Tooth and Nail Brewing Company.

“We’ll still keep some of the classics like Mixtape and Céleste on tap, but lots of German beers,” said Barrette.

Along with German-inspired lagers, Ferme SolAil will be dishing out a Bavarian-inspired menu while patrons enjoy live music acts on the patio. Sweet treats will also be available from local chocolate artisan Béatrice et Chocolats.

“We like the synergy there is between a lot of businesses in Vieux-Aylmer and whenever we get a chance to collaborate on anything, it’s a good time. It just helps shine a light on our community a bit more.”

The local microbrewery is only one stop on the list of Oktoberfest activities in Old Aylmer. Starting September 19, Bistro L’Autre Oeil will be toasting to Oktoberfest with a three-week-long celebration centring around German-inspired beers and special items on their menu. The Aylmer Legion will be hosting an Oktoberfest Party on the 28th with live music, Bavarian-inspired food, and a dance. Aylmerites can also enjoy a special European-themed snack all weekend long at William J. Walter Saucissier.

“If the weather holds up, we hope to see a bunch of people out supporting their local businesses and celebrating Oktoberfest.”

Photo: Celebrate Oktoberfest in Old Aylmer this year with a cold brew on the patio at 5e Baron.

Photo: 5e Baron Facebook Page

Enjoying the beer necessities this Oktoberfest in Vieux-Aylmer Read More »

Trailers to be removed on case-by-case basis from the Guertin site to make room for new

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

The pressure is on while Gatineau reconfigures the Guertin site to make way for new projects like the Village Transition. This comes at a time when the city has claimed leadership in tackling homelessness.

“The work that’s being done, and will continue to be done by the teams, is really about support, because we don’t want to weaken people who are already vulnerable,” said Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette. “It’s really a case-by-case dialogue, and then seeing how we’re able to support people.”

The former home to the Gatineau Olympiques made the list of demolitions in late February due to its “significant level of deterioration.” A $2.1 million contract for the deconstruction of the arena was awarded in June and it was expected to take at least a year.

The deconstruction of the Robert-Guertin Centre would allow for undertakings like social housing on rue de Carillon, Gîte Ami’s Mon Calme project, and Village Transition to take shape.

The temporary and transitional village solution came as a second phase in a homelessness solution from Devcore after the company provided 48 heated tents to the arena parking lot last winter. The village would take the shape of 60 shipping containers managed by Transition Québec and house up to 100 people for a transitional period of two to five years as they seek permanent accommodation.

But to house more than 50 containers, trailers that currently reside on the Guertin site will have to be reorganized and some may be removed, said Marquis-Bissonnette.

“We don’t want to remove them all, because in fact, what we’re dealing with at the moment, is the transition. It’s the transition between before and after the arrival of the Transition Québec site.”

Over the last year, trailers have arrived on the grounds of the Robert-Guertin Centre. Marquis- Bissonnette said their numbers have increased over the months. According to the City’s data, 70 per cent of those residing in the trailers would like to integrate into one of the containers.

“The idea is not to weaken them until they can integrate into a Transition Québec container. When I say “weaken”, I mean turn them around in a timely manner because the reality is that a trailer is still an improvement in conditions for people experiencing homelessness compared to a tent. But some trailers are going to have to be removed because we’re going to need space to do these jobs.”

Marquis-Bissonnette said the removal of the trailers would be on a case-by-case basis but the mobile homes facing advanced dilapidation would not make the cut.

“The idea is to get people to move with us and then bring them into a continuum of service that meets their needs … Ultimately, these projects on the Guertin site will help improve quality of life and offer services, so they’re essential.”

Photo: The 67-year-old Robert-Guertin Centre is set for deconstruction to allow for new projects aimed to combat homelessness to take shape.

Photo: Taylor Clark

Trailers to be removed on case-by-case basis from the Guertin site to make room for new Read More »

Gatineau “making progress on all fronts”

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

Gatineau Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette said the City was making strides in terms of economic recovery and homelessness since being sworn in three months ago.

“I would say that things are going very well, both with the work with the administration and the work with colleagues around the table. We feel that we have winning conditions to move forward,” said Marquis-Bissonnette.

With the upcoming budget, the mayor said she hoped there would be significant amounts “that have never been invested since the municipal merger” for the revival of the downtown core. The funds would go to several fronts but particularly to infrastructure.

“We know that one way to revive the economy is to invest in our own municipal infrastructure to attract business,” she said.

When it came to breathing new life into the downtown core, Marquis-Bissonnette said the solution could not rely on the return of civil servants, who since September 9 have been required to work in their offices at least three days per week.

“That’s why we’re moving forward in terms of supporting commerce to really have an attractive downtown offering, not just during business hours but so that people want to come on weekends, in the evenings, to enjoy the cultural offerings of restaurants and businesses.”

To get there, Marquis-Bissonnette hopes Gatineau will become the first major city in Quebec to implement development charges to fund infrastructure projects like the widening work on Vanier Road.

Along with firsts in economic development, the mayor expected Gatineau to take the lead on tackling homelessness but only on the condition that the Government of Quebec provide resources on top of the $5 million already set aside in the municipal budget.

“This is the situation we are seeing right now in Guertin and in other areas of the City. It is the result of a continuum of services that are not adequate for people experiencing homelessness.”

While the responsibility for homelessness does not fall to the City, Gatineau has had to indirectly combat the growing issue as it is “in its own backyard.” In the last four years, homelessness has increased by 268 per cent in Outaouais compared to 36 per cent in Montreal or 33 per cent in Quebec City.

“We are by far the region where there is a greater increase in homelessness, and I think Quebec City understands that.”

By taking leadership, Gatineau planned to be the connecting link between stakeholders and services to provide those experiencing homelessness with more robust and complete services. What form these resources from Quebec are to take has yet to be specified but “will take a lot of time.”

Photo: Mayor of Gatineau Maude Marquis-Bissonnette gathers journalists at the Maison du citoyen to highlight the major projects that will guide the work of council in the coming weeks.

Photo: Taylor Clark

Gatineau “making progress on all fronts” Read More »

Help get local athlete and the rest of Team Canada to Norway

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

Without corporate backing, $40,000 stands in the way of a local athlete and her team donning the maple leaf on a global stage.

Born and raised in Gatineau, Émilie Charron-Pilotte always dreamed of representing Canada.

“My inspiration comes from a Paralympian from Aylmer, Jean Labonté,” said Charron-Pilotte. “He is the one who inspired me a lot to follow my dream of pushing myself to one day make the national team.”

Charron-Pilotte began her journey in Para hockey in 2017 and has played defence on the national team since 2022. If the team can raise the necessary funds, it will be Charron-Pilotte’s third time competing at the Women’s World Challenge hosted by World Para Ice Hockey.

From October 25 to 28, teams will face off for the first time outside of North America in Skien, Norway. Team Canada Women’s Para Ice Hockey is not funded under Sports Canada for its High Performance program, leaving athletes to pay expenses out of their own pockets.

A fundraiser was launched to cover costs and even with sponsors like Canadian Tire and Bauer Hockey, the team is faced with high travelling expenses.

“(Women’s Para hockey is) in a phase where we want to go to the Paralympics. And for that, we must develop the sport,” said Charron-Pilotte. “If we can raise awareness of the sport and develop it, that is our biggest goal for Team Canada.”

The competition will set the course for the first-ever Women’s World Champions in 2025 and a step toward including women’s Para hockey in the Paralympics Winter Games.

While Para hockey was changed from a men’s event to a mixed tournament in 2010, only three female athletes in history have ever competed at the Paralympic level, none of whom were Canadian.

“Once you actually have the flag and you’re on the ice representing your country, it’s very emotional. I remember the first time I heard the national anthem when I was in my jersey on the ice. I was very moved. But it’s also true that it brings a lot of responsibility.”

Now living in Luskville, Charron-Pilotte is constantly training and striving for her best. “When I am unmotivated for my training, things like that, I remind myself of this responsibility that I have to wear the maple leaf.”

Along with the Women’s Para Hockey of Canada’s main fundraiser, each player has a separate donation page which can be found at www.wphcanada.com. The community can support the main fundraising campaign and Charron-Pilotte’s donation page until October 19.

Photo: Émilie Charron-Pilotte of Canada’s national women’s Para hockey team receives silver inthe 2023 Women’s World Challenge in the United States.

Photo: Women’s Para Hockey of Canada Website

Help get local athlete and the rest of Team Canada to Norway Read More »

Two arrested for bike theft at Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

The online sleuthing of a theft victim led to the recovery of their high-value bicycle that was stolen from the grounds of the Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival.

In the early hours of September 2, an Abitibi resident noticed their expensive bicycle missing from the festival site and filed an online complaint with the Gatineau Police. After some research online, an advertisement was found matching the stolen bike, and the victim reported it to the police.

Officers set up an appointment with the seller to purchase the bicycle the following day. A 37- year-old man and a 41-year-old woman, both from Gatineau, were arrested at the meeting point. The individuals were released following questioning by investigators and the bicycle was returned to its owner. Charges for theft, possession of property obtained by crime, and trafficking property obtained by crime were submitted to the Director of Criminal and Penal Prosecutions.

Photo caption: A theft victim’s vigilance led Gatineau Police to the arrest of two suspects for stealing a high-value bicycle at the Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival.

Photo credit: Service de police de la Ville de Gatineau Facebook Page

Two arrested for bike theft at Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival Read More »

Financial assistance opens for Bellevue residents impacted by tropical storm Debby

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

Thanks to the vigilance of the City of Gatineau and district councillor Alicia Lacasse-Brunet, Bellevue residents impacted by sewage backflow from tropical storm Debby are now able to apply for financial assistance from the Government of Quebec.

“The recent sewer backups in our neighbourhood have had a major impact on many homes, and I’d like to express my full solidarity with those affected,” said Lacasse-Brunet.

The passage of tropical storm Debby brought heavy rains on August 9 and 10, causing extensive flooding and soil movement in the southern portion of the province. Quebec’s Minister of Public Security François Bonnardel quickly announced that financial assistance would be available for eligible municipalities under the General Disaster Financial Assistance Program.

The assistance program works as a last resort measure to support those impacted by certain disasters that do not fall under insurance policies. Expenses like temporary preventive measures, damage to eligible personal property, and emergency work would qualify for financial assistance and compensation.

Almost a week later, the minister clarified the terms and conditions of the assistance program and invited disaster victims who were unsure of their eligibility to submit a claim. Bonnardel reminded citizens to first look to their private insurer before seeking additional assistance through the government program.

“Insurers must assume their responsibilities and compensate citizens according to the terms of their insurance policy. Now, in some cases, we understand that the causes of the losses experienced by several citizens are multiple. That’s why we’ll be looking closely at claims involving mixed causes, such as overflowing waterways leading to sewer backups,” Bonnardel wrote in a press release.

When the rain was at its heaviest, Lacasse-Brunet was on the ground to relay citizens’ concerns and observations to the municipal teams “to ensure a rapid, coordinated response.”

“I’d like to thank Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette for her support and proactivity. She was able to get all the stakeholders around the table to get clear explanations of the situation and plan the next steps, in addition to offering an information session to citizens,” said the Bellevue district councillor.

In a press briefing on August 21, Marquis-Bissonnette told reporters that city crews were tending to the damage.

“There are several explanations for the sewer backup in (the Zone Blanche) sector but what is clear is it’s a situation that is not acceptable. We will have to propose a certain number of actions,” said Marquis-Bissonnette. “We are in the process of developing an action plan for this sector in particular. There will be short-term actions and longer-term actions to ensure that the situation is resolved.”

Among the actions undertaken or planned for the neighbourhood were inspections of the sanitary network’s observation shafts and sewer covers, installing a flow restrictor on the splash pad at Roberval Park, as well as having teams carry out random inspections during heavy rain to find homes with illegal foundation drain connections, which are the source of network saturation.

Photo caption: Gatineau Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette says city crews are on the ground dealing with the damage inflicted by tropical storm Debby.

Photo credit: Screenshot of Mêlée de presse du 21 août 2024 – Comité exécutif

Financial assistance opens for Bellevue residents impacted by tropical storm Debby Read More »

Labour Day long weekend leads to three arrests for impaired driving

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

A police officer was left with minor injuries after a 61-year-old man from Gatineau rear-ended a
patrol vehicle in the early hours of Labour Day.

Gatineau police were called to assist the Gatineau Fire Department at the scene of a vehicle fire
on Autoroute Guy-Lafleur around 2:30 am. While flashing its lights to warn motorists to reduce
their speed, the stationary police vehicle was struck from the rear.

The officer inside the vehicle at the time of the impact was taken to the hospital as a
precautionary measure, but only suffered minor injuries from the incident. The driver of the car
that collided with the police cruiser was not injured.

The 61-year-old was arrested at the scene for impaired driving. Tests at the police station
revealed a level of more than twice the legal limit. The vehicle was seized for 30 days, and the
man’s driver’s licence was suspended for 90 days.

Police reported two other collisions over the weekend, which also resulted in impaired driving
charges.

Officers attended the scene of a single-vehicle collision with a streetlight at the intersection of
Maloney Boulevard East and Pélissier Street shortly after midnight on August 31. The driver was
alone in the vehicle and was arrested at the scene after police observed signs of alcohol
intoxication. Tests showed the 27-year-old man had a blood alcohol level above the legal limit.
His driver’s licence was suspended for 90 days, and the vehicle was impounded.

Hours later, police returned to Maloney Boulevard East, in response to a call concerning a
collision between a vehicle and a traffic light. At the scene, officers discovered the occupants of
the vehicle had fled, but they were quickly located. The driver, a 48-year-old man from Gatineau,
was arrested for impaired driving and hit-and-run charges. Tests revealed a blood alcohol level
more than twice the legal limit. The vehicle was seized for 30 days, and the man’s driver’s
licence was suspended for 90 days.

Photo caption: A 61-year-old man was arrested over the long weekend for impaired driving after
rear-ending a stationary police cruiser on Autoroute Guy-Lafleur.
Photo credit: Service de police de la Ville de Gatineau Facebook Page

Labour Day long weekend leads to three arrests for impaired driving Read More »

Twenty tickets issued in illegal watercraft rental service

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

Gatineau Police issued 12 tickets to a teenager for operating an illegal rental business with their father’s watercraft at the Aylmer Marina this summer.

Following numerous complaints of dangerous watercraft behaviour, Gatineau Police conducted an operation via drone surveillance targeting an illegal rental service in early August.

“It turns out that a teenager was illegally renting a watercraft,” said police.

Although a minor, the individual received 12 tickets for a variety of offences, including lending a watercraft to a person who did not have the required skills, allowing someone to use the watercraft without the necessary equipment, and renting a watercraft to a person under 16.

Eight other tickets were issued to three people who rented the watercraft. These were for various reasons, such as using the watercraft in a reckless manner.

Since the teenager was running a business without a permit and had already been made aware of their illegal actions, they could receive other tickets for violations under municipal bylaws.

Photo caption: An operation targeting an illegal watercraft rental business at the Aylmer Marina concluded with Gatineau Police issuing 20 tickets.

Photo credit: Service de police de la Ville de Gatineau Facebook Page

Twenty tickets issued in illegal watercraft rental service Read More »

Sports to return to La Fonderie this fall

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

After a three-year hiatus due to decontamination work, La Fonderie will reopen to local athletes, a commitment made by Gatineau’s now Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette during her by-election campaign.

Starting this fall, Gatineau residents will have access to a synthetic turf soccer field and two multisport fields in the Hull sector thanks to a renewed partnership between the City and Gestion ARSO for the management of the facilities on the second floor of La Fonderie, known as the Centre Multisport, for the next five years.

“This agreement will make accessible, modern facilities available to all while supporting the development of the sports infrastructure needed for soccer and other sports in Gatineau,” Marquis-Bissonnette wrote in a press release.

As per the agreement, Gestion ARSO will be responsible for managing and coordinating the rental of the three sports facilities available to citizens, school groups, and various sports organizations in the region. The City will still retain the right to use the facilities for its open participation activities and certain recognized organizations such as soccer clubs.

Gestion ARSO and Soccer Outaouais director general Richard Gravel said the renewed partnership was “a breath of fresh air” for Gatineau’s sports and cultural communities.

“Working together is a guarantee of success and opens the door to other future projects for the benefit of all,” wrote Gravel.

Photo caption: Fulfilling a by-election commitment, Gatineau Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette announces the renewed partnership between the City and Gestion ARSO, which will reopen the sports facilities on the second floor of La Fonderie.

Photo credit: Taylor Clark

Sports to return to La Fonderie this fall Read More »

Front Street seafood and cocktail restaurant turns one

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

Gin et Chips owner and chef Gabriel Messier looks forward to the future of the seafood and cocktail restaurant as it celebrates its first milestone.

“It’s been a year and it passed in a flash,” said Messier. “I can’t even fathom how it went by.”

Since opening its doors in late August 2023, the restaurant has been serving up gin-infused dishes accompanied by gin-based cocktails or select wines not represented at SAQ. As the seasons change, so does the menu but the core of every dish remains fresh, locally grown products.

“Elevating normal ingredients that people can recognize is something that I like a lot,” said Messier. “I transformed the Brussels sprout salad into something that most people love and it’s a vegetable that’s been destroyed in so many households.”

A constant at the restaurant is its staple gin-battered haddock and chips, created out of the chef’s love for battered fish but allergies to hops. “Find me one fish and chip that has no beer in it, I’ll be there because I love it.”

While the restaurant is known for its signature fish and chips, Messier’s passion for the culinary arts was first ignited by desserts.

“In high school, I had a teacher that every time it was somebody’s birthday, someone in the class would have to make a cake. When it got to my turn, well, it was nobody else’s turn after that.” From high school, Messier went on to study pastry which only “enhanced (his) taste for the restaurant business.”

But owning a restaurant always seemed out of reach as Messier battled cancer for 10 years of his adult life. “It always cut my opportunities from the big restaurants … It was just always a hindrance.”

Whenever Messier would begin a project, he said cancer would rear its head. “This is kind of like my Hail Mary … What makes me happy is feeding people. Seeing them eat my food and wanting to come eat my food. And there’s no truer way to do that than doing it on your own.”

Well, not completely on his own. Messier started this endeavour with his parents at his side. Along with tending to the garden outside the building, his mother takes care of the little details that make up Gin et Chips while his father lends a hand in the kitchen occasionally.

“For me, it’s easy to wake up every morning and make my family proud and make good food for the people. It’s such a love process.”

With under 30 seats indoors, Messier emphasized the importance of calling ahead and making a reservation, even if it was the morning of.

“I found that to be very rewarding, to be able to cook fresh every day for the people that want to make their evening special. It’s kind of a win-win. They want to treat themselves right, and I want to treat them right.”

Gin et Chips is open for dinner Tuesday to Saturday from 5 pm to 10 pm. Reservations can be made by calling 819-332-0677.

Photo caption: Chef Gabriel Messier hopes to expand on his restaurant Gin et Chips to be a premier cocktail destination in Aylmer.

Photo credit: Taylor Clark

Front Street seafood and cocktail restaurant turns one Read More »

Petition pushes feds to pay up for Ottawa side of tramway

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

An e-petition urging the Government of Canada to fund the pre-project studies for Ottawa’s portion of the tramway has been making the rounds.

“It is absolutely essential to always reiterate that this is a need that is demonstrated by the numbers, but also desired by the population,” said the petition’s creator and MOBI-O director general Patrick Robert-Meunier.

Despite the late June announcement where the federal and provincial governments invested $163.5 million to set the planning phase in motion on the Quebec side, funding has yet to be announced for the studies of the 2 kilometres of tramway line planned for the other side of the river.

“The request has always been made, in fact, since the beginning of this project, that the federal government take full responsibility for financing what is happening on the Ontario side,” said Robert-Meunier.

Prior to the tabling of the 2024 federal budget in April, Canada’s Minister of Transport Pablo Rodriguez assured that the studies for the project would be financed by the federal government.

Of the recent joint investment, the Government of Quebec covered 60 per cent of the cost while the Government of Canada funded the remaining 40 per cent. Robert-Meunier intends to hold the federal government to its word and foot the complete bill for the Ontario side.

Accommodating over 30,000 passengers daily once in service, the tramway has been deemed the most sustainable solution to meet the needs of residents for the next 30 to 50 years.

“I would say the numbers are clear in relation to the travel needs … Investing in a RapiBus, for example, would mean investing hundreds of millions of dollars in a system which, in a few years, would no longer be functional. It’s not a good public investment to do that.”

With the ability to carry three times the number of passengers than an articulated bus, the system will not only meet the demand but also reduce congestion in the Gatineau and Ottawa downtowns.

As of August 28, the petition surpassed the minimum of 500 signatures required to receive final certification. Once it closes on September 25, the signatures will have to be verified before the petition is presented to the House.

Robert-Meunier was hopeful the Government of Canada would make an announcement this fall to “seal the future of this project.”

“I think that the federal government understands that we will not be able to build a tramway that stops at the bottom of Pont du Portage and that it must cross to Ottawa if we want it to be effective and meet peoples’ travel needs.”

To learn more about the petition and add your name among the signatures, visit www.noscommunes.ca/petitions/fr/Petition/Sign/e-5015.

Photo caption: With the funding secured for the planning stage of Gatineau’s side of the tramway, a petition seeks confirmation on the investment for the Ottawa portion of the interprovincial project.

Photo credit: Tramway Gatineau-Ottawa project office Website

Petition pushes feds to pay up for Ottawa side of tramway Read More »

311 calls up as citizens continue to adjust to robotic waste collection

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

Gatineau is in “listening mode” after the City received higher-than-expected complaints from citizens about the transition to robotic collection of waste and residual materials.

“You can see that it’s a big change of habit, and it’s not easy. But what I want you to remember is that we are constantly adjusting. We listen to the public. We look weekly, even daily, to see how the situation is evolving, and then we make adjustments accordingly,” Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette told reporters during a press briefing on August 21.

The new collection method came into place at the end of May, requiring households to position their bins 60 centimetres apart with the wheels facing their home to ensure the robotic arm collected their waste.

Comité exécutif president and Hull-Wright district councillor Steve Moran said the 311 line was overwhelmed, receiving 200 per cent of its normal capacity in calls. The councillor asked the public to be patient as more manpower was added to the 311 line.

“We’re getting there, everyone in their own way, whether it’s the contractor, whether it’s the City, whether it’s the public, we’re gradually adjusting to changes in the way things are done,” said Moran.

Derichebourg Environment Canada, who was contracted to collect residual materials in Gatineau, was short-staffed, said Moran. The company has since added four trucks to its fleet which was expected to up capacity by 30 per cent.

When asked if the one-month adaptation period should have been extended, Moran said he wasn’t sure it would have made a difference. “The fact is, we saw that people were still struggling to comply. Information was given every time, but at the same time, it took time.”

According to the councillor, 80 per cent of households were now correctly positioning their bins within the “famous” 60 centimetres parameters.

“There are other cities that have moved to mechanized waste collection. It’s going to cost us less with the labor shortage,” said Marquis-Bissonnette. “I think we’ll get there in the end, but we’re not there yet, and we’ll continue to listen and adjust.”

Photo caption: Three months into its robotic collection system for waste and residual materials, Comité exécutif president Steve Moran said 80 per cent of households in Gatineau have adjusted to the new requirements.

Photo credit: Ville de Gatineau Website

311 calls up as citizens continue to adjust to robotic waste collection Read More »

18-year-old arrested for kidnapping and sexually assaulting a minor

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

Gatineau Police have arrested an 18-year-old man for sexual offences against a minor.

Officers arrived at an apartment building in the Lac-Beauchamp district shortly before 8 pm on August 22 for a possible child abduction. At the scene, police met with a young girl who explained she was confined and sexually assaulted by a stranger.

The suspect was identified and arrested later in the evening. The 18-year-old remained in custody until his appearance before the Court of Québec on August 23. Several charges including kidnapping, sexual interference, and sexual assault with a weapon were submitted against him to the Director of Criminal and Penal Prosecutions.

Photo caption: A report of possible child abduction led to the arrest of an 18-year-old man for sexual assault against a minor, on August 22.

Photo credit: Service de police de la Ville de Gatineau Facebook Page

18-year-old arrested for kidnapping and sexually assaulting a minor Read More »

Temporary sanitary block opens at Robert-Guertin Centre

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

A temporary sanitary block for those experiencing homelessness has been up and running at the Guertin site since August 20.

“This is a request from citizens experiencing homelessness but also from local groups,” Hull- Wright district councillor and commissioner for the fight against homelessness Steve Moran told reporters during a press briefing the following day. “There’s a basic need that must be addressed.”

Back in July, the Comité exécutif decided a temporary sanitary block was quickly needed as the Robert-Guertin Centre was set to be demolished.

“I think there are certainly some adjustments to be made in the short term, but generally, it’s going well … Today is the first full day of operation. We’ll see a little bit more over the coming week,” said Moran.

Only equipped with showers and toilets, Moran said a “more robust” sanitary block was expected to replace the temporary facility by the end of the year. A permanent sanitary block was not the only project on the way to assist homeless individuals.

“A huge number of projects are coming up to better meet the needs of the population on site.”

Photo caption: Gatineau adds a temporary sanitary block to the Guertin site but plans to include a more permanent fixture at the end of the year.

Photo credit: Steve Moran Facebook Page

Temporary sanitary block opens at Robert-Guertin Centre Read More »

Work to wipe out European red ants to come next summer

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

Residents plagued by European fire ants can expect relief come summer 2025 as Gatineau works on a plan to eradicate the fiery red insects.

“If I were flooded, the City would come to my aid and understand. But now we’re infested; it’s one thing to understand it, to have compassion for it. It’s quite another to live through it,” d’Andromède Street resident Marie-Claude Giasson told the Commission de l’environnement et de la lutte aux changements climatiques on June 27.

Giasson first reported European fire ants on her property to the City in 2020 and her family has not been able to enjoy their backyard since.

“Our yards are invested because we are on the edge of city land and the city land behind our house is wooded which encouraged us to purchase the property. But we didn’t know that we would be invested with Myrmica rubra,” she said.

The European fire ant, also known as Myrmica rubra, is an exotic species of ant that appeared in North America in the 20th century and has been gaining ground in Quebec. A polygynous and polydomous species, the ant colonies can have several queens and occupy various nests, all interconnected by underground tunnels. Equipped with a stinger, the species is known for being aggressive and defending its territory.

“When you hear your child scream because he’s just been bitten, the skin reactions that come because that’s what it is, it’s reactions,” said Giasson. With the ability to sting multiple times, the sting of a European fire ant causes burning, itching, and in extremely rare cases, anaphylaxis.

Despite the possibility of a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction, the Direction de santé publique has no guidelines on the European fire ant. It also currently does not appear on an official list of invasive species at the provincial or federal level.

Giasson said she spent a lot of her own money on extermination in the first few years but has since ditched these efforts as swarms continue to infiltrate her property from the wooded area on the other side of her fence.

“I expect the City to help me and my neighbours get back to enjoying our backyards, especially with the summers we’re having now.”

The European fire ant was first spotted in Gatineau in 2010 at the Claude-Rioux Park in the Aylmer sector. The first scientific report was released five years later which confirmed their presence. Observations of the fiery red ants resurfaced in 2020 when residents of d’Andromède and du Prado streets reported sightings.

External expertise was recruited to create a detailed mapping of the issue and establish an intervention plan, but the plan was never deployed due to operational constraints and complexities. Wanting to continue the momentum, Gatineau awarded a mandate to an entomologist researcher at the Université de Montréal in 2023 to better understand the colonies plaguing Andromède Park and the surrounding grounds. The research report and its proposed recommendations were presented to the Commission de l’environnement et de la lutte aux changements climatiques at its late June meeting.

The research uncovered around 78 colonies in the area with an estimated population of between 90,000 and 300,000 individual insects. Thriving in shaded, humid environments, the entomologist discovered after several experiments that the ants were weakened at 40 degrees and perished at 45 degrees.

Along with introducing competing colonies and clearcutting greenery to make the environment less conductive, the entomologist recommended installing stripes of black plastic or tiles that would attract sunlight and ultimately put an end to the European fire ants.

With the report now in hand, the Service de la transition écologique will develop a work plan for the fight against Myrmica rubra which is expected to grace council in the fall for approval and to obtain the necessary funding. An awareness campaign targeting citizens would be rolled out in the winter and fall of 2025, with the work to begin that summer.

Photo caption: A report from an entomologist researcher at the Université de Montréal discovered around 78 colonies with an estimated population of between 90,000 and 300,000 individual European fire ants at Andromède Park and the surrounding grounds.

Photo credit: Egor Kamelev on Pexels

Work to wipe out European red ants to come next summer Read More »

Cooking fire engulfs 230 Chemin Freeman

Taylor Clark

Residents of a three-storey condo building awoke to smoke and noise early on August 20 when a kitchen fire spread across the roof of the building.

Over 50 firefighters responded to a fire at 230 Chemin Freeman shortly after 3 am. Twelve of the building’s 21 units suffered damages from fire, smoke, and water, causing around 20 residents to be displaced and left in the hands of the Canadian Red Cross.

The fire was under control a little after 7 am. While no residents reported injuries, one firefighter obtained a minor injury. Losses were estimated at $639,360.

“It’s important to remember that oil is a fuel that ignites easily when it reaches a certain temperature,” read a release from the Service de sécurité incendie de Gatineau. “A deep fryer fitted with a temperature regulator is the best way to limit the risk of fire-related to frying.”

Photo caption: Firefighters tend to the scene of a kitchen fire that broke out early on August 20 at 230 Chemin Freeman.

Photo credit: Camera de nuit Facebook Page

Cooking fire engulfs 230 Chemin Freeman Read More »

Proposed cycling infrastructure in Hull sparks opposing petitions

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

Petitions have been circulating online in favour and against adding close to 9,000 metres to Hull’s cycling network, specifically in the Saint-Joseph area.

As part of Gatineau’s Cycling Network Master Plan, adopted in 2018, the City proposed cycling links at four axes in Hull: downtown, Mont-Bleu, Gamelin, and Saint-Joseph. A public information session on all four proposals was held in late October 2023 to answer questions.

The proposal for Saint-Joseph included 8,775 metres of new cycling routes extending 13 streets, removing 339 of the area’s 601 parking spots. The additions to the cycling network would make Wìgwàs (Amherst) eastbound from Moussette toward Saint-Joseph, Berri southbound from Gamelin toward Montclair, and Berri northbound from Wìgwàs toward Montclair into one-way streets.

The prospect that portions of Berri Street would become a one-way came as a surprise to resident Alain Charlebois, who only learned about the proposal while candidates were campaigning for the by-election. Upon speaking with his neighbours, Charlebois learned he was not the only one out of the loop.

“When I did my door-to-door, 95 per cent of my neighbourhood (were) not aware of these proposals,” he said.

This led Charlebois to launch his Change.org petition strongly urging the council to review the proposal he deemed “overkill” and adjust the proposed cycling infrastructure to align with current projects and priorities.

“It’s excessive to have that many bicycle paths,” said Charlebois. “I’m not against cycling. I’m retired but when I worked in Ottawa, I did cycle in the summertime to go to work, and I never had issues. There’s no congestion on our existing bicycle paths.”

Along with what he considered insufficient consultation, Charlebois raised concerns about the reduced number of parking spaces and the proposed paths creating a negative impact on existing traffic, which would only continue to increase as more developments pop up.

Charlebois insisted the City consider less expensive alternatives like improving existing routes. “It would be much more economical to secure the bicycle path on Saint-Joseph by putting some flag on the lane and painting it to make it more visible … I think more people would be using it more if it was clearly marked.”

With what he described as no urgency to increase cycling routes, Charlebois asked the City to reprioritize the budget for the infrastructure to “more urgent needs such as public transportation, social housing, and homelessness.”

Although Charlebois’ petition has gained close to 400 signatures, not all residents were on board with seeing the money put toward another project. Avid cyclist Andrew Gibson welcomed the proposal to the neighbourhood as he already had concerns about the safety of pedestrians and cyclists.

“We love where we live. One of the issues is on Berri Street – it’s too fast. There’s too much traffic, it takes away the potential, precisely, of residential streets where people can participate in active transportation, get to know each other, all those good things,” said Gibson.

Along with the Association des résidants et résidantes du Quartier Wright and other citizens, Gibson was able to provide ideas and feedback during the consultation process.

“At this point, it would be nice to take a clear stand to show that it’s not just people who are residents of the neighbourhood. On the contrary, many people support the vision that was released by the City. We felt it was necessary to take action,” said Gibson.

The counter-petition supporting Gatineau’s decision was launched by Gibson in early August and has gathered close to 600 signatures. He noted the concerns laid out in the opposing petition were legitimate but stressed change was necessary to advance the roadways.

“At a certain point, (the opposition is) normal. We’re proposing changes. It disturbs habits. Some people are still dependent on their car. You have to respect that. You have to be open and be there to understand, support, and propose new ideas,” said Gibson.

This infrastructure provides the support and self-assurance needed to encourage people to take that leap to active transportation, said Gibson. “There are many, I think, who would like to do that but who are a little hesitant.”

According to the Government of Canada, the interest in cycling has been steadily increasing in many municipalities. The pandemic gave way to a “cycling renaissance” across Canada but much of this riding was recreational rather than for commuting purposes.

When it came to traveling to work, Gatineau’s residents preferred taking a vehicle. An Origin-Destination survey by the Comité TRANS found 66 per cent of the trips from the Gatineau territory were made by car while active transportation only accounted for 10 per cent. Public transportation and other modes made up the remaining 24 per cent.

Gatineau’s Sustainable Travel Plan, carried out in 2013, put significance on changing how the population gets around, by emphasizing walking, cycling, public transit, carpooling, and car sharing. From 2011 to 2031, the plan aimed to increase foot and bicycle traffic during the morning peak period from 10 to 15 per cent.

“There are several reasons why (cycling) infrastructure is important, but the main principles we’re building on would be safety, user-friendliness, and adaptation to climate change. For all these reasons, it’s good to bring in new infrastructure to encourage and facilitate active transportation whether on foot or by bike so that people feel confident,” said Gibson.

Both petitions can be viewed on Change.org.

Photo caption: Gatineau has revealed plans to improve cycling infrastructure in four areas of Hull but not all residents are on board with the proposals.

Photo credit: Ville de Gatineau presentation dated October 19, 2023

Proposed cycling infrastructure in Hull sparks opposing petitions Read More »

You’ve heard about Kermit the Frog; now what about Kermit the Truck?

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

One man’s love for being behind the wheel has allowed him to be a helping hand to those in Aylmer.

Martin Cleroux has wanted a 1927 to 1931 Ford Model A pickup truck for as long as he can remember, having been infatuated with its shape and fenders from a young age. He spent decades pining and searching for the highly sought-after model. It wasn’t until the loss of his mother that an advertisement for a 1931 model of his dream truck ended up in his lap.

“Now the reason why I think it’s my mom who has something to do with this is because, when I was growing up, our phone number was 684-6799,” Cleroux said, pointing to the numbers permanently scrolled across the truck’s original odometer.

The truck’s only modern amenity was a digital GPS speedometer and odometer, as the stock mechanical instrument remained untouched in the centre of the dash to commemorate his mother.

In stark contrast to Cleroux’s modern daily vehicle, a Mazda CX-3, the Model A’s top speed was 105 kilometers per hour.

“It’s very slow but surprisingly comfortable,” said Cleroux. “I could probably do 75 or 80 but 65 is where I like to keep it.”

Replacing the Model T, the Model A was the first Ford to utilize the standard set of driver controls like the conventional clutch and brake pedals, throttle, and gearshift. At a time when the rear-view mirror was optimal, the Model A was the first car to incorporate safety glass in the windshield.

With its dark green colour and large bug headlights, Cleroux said Kermit was the perfect fit for a name.

“I get lots of attention on the road. Kids, they love it. They see it for the first time, and they want to hear the horn.”

As the first anniversary of acquiring the truck approached, Cleroux decided to put his hundreds of kilometers of aimless driving to use and use his downtime to organize pick-ups for residents looking to purge scrap metal but having no way to bring the heavy material to the recycling centre in Aylmer.

“I get to drive, meet a whole bunch of people and have a blast.”

Photo caption: Dubbed Kermit the Truck, the 1931 Ford Model A pickup truck has gained notoriety cruising around Aylmer.

Photo credit: Taylor Clark

You’ve heard about Kermit the Frog; now what about Kermit the Truck? Read More »

18-year-old arrested in seizure of narcotics and firearms

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

An operation to put an end to a local drug trafficking network led to the arrest of an 18-year-old Gatineau resident on August 14.

The search of a vehicle and addresses in the Gatineau sector led investigators with the Gatineau Police insider crime section and intervention group to seize a large quantity of narcotics and firearms.

Much was seized from an address in the Buckingham district. The police confiscated several thousand dollars in Canadian currency, more than 250 grams of cocaine, an excess of 20 grams of cannabis, over 60 grams of hashish, one gram of psilocybin, various tablets, three cell phones, and a drone.

Two safes, several thousand dollars in Canadian currency, two cellphones, a semi-automatic firearm along with two high-capacity magazines with about 60 rounds of ammunition, and drug trafficking equipment were seized from an address in the Carrefour-de-l’Hôpital district.

Not too far away in the Orée-du-Parc district, police also confiscated more drug trafficking equipment, several prepaid credit cards, a small quantity of hashish, as well as a long gun and ammunition.

The search of a Hyundai Tucson turned up more than a thousand dollars in Canadian currency, a mini-cellphone, and more than five grams of ecstasy.

Eighteen-year-old Anthony Gauthier of Gatineau was arrested and appeared at the Gatineau courthouse on August 15 to face several charges, including drug trafficking, possession for the purpose of trafficking, possession of cannabis for the purpose of distributing, and charges related to possession and storage of firearms. The man will remain in custody and appear at a later date for his release.

Photo caption: Gatineau Police raided three addresses in the Gatineau sector in an operation aimed to ceasing a local drug trafficking network.

Photo credit: Service de police de la Ville de Gatineau Facebook Page

18-year-old arrested in seizure of narcotics and firearms Read More »

Gatineau Park parkways remain closed after substantial rainfall

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

A week after the remnants of tropical storm Debby swept the area, teams with Gatineau Park continued to restore washed-out parkways.

Strategic communications advisor Maryam El-Akhrass said the cleanup and securing of the sites were expected to take several more days.

“We thank the public for their collaboration as our employees and contractors work hard to repair the damage. We ask everyone to be patient and careful, respect signage and to avoid impacted areas,” said El-Akhrass.

Many visitors were obligated to change their weekend plans after the heavy rain on August 9 washed out the parkway network along with a couple of beaches and parking lots.

As of August 15, the Champlain Parkway section between Fortune and Gatineau Parkways was closed to all visitors as the Fortune and Gatineau Parkways were only open to cyclists and pedestrians. The Meech Lake beaches and boat launch will remain closed until further notice. The Park’s shuttle services were also halted.

“Please exercise caution, respect the barricades and follow the directional signage in place,” read the National Capital Commission (NCC) website.

After inspecting the summer trail network, a majority were open but exercising caution was advised as many trails were affected by erosion. A handful of trails were listed as closed or not recommended as repair work was underway.

“We are providing daily updates online as we continue to make progress,” said El-Akhrass.

Up-to-date information on the Park’s closures can be viewed at the NCC’s website at ncc-ccn.gc.ca/closures/.

“Climate change is causing more frequent severe weather events. The NCC is putting measures in place to increase the resiliency of its assets and operations.”

The NCC’s first Climate Adaptation Plan was adopted this year. Building on the 2020 climate projections study and the 2022 climate vulnerability and risk assessment, the plan aimed to enhance the resilience of the Commission’s operations. The plan and other related documents can be found at ncc-ccn.gc.ca/our-plans/climate-change-adaptation.

Photo caption: Heavy rainfall on August 9 caused extensive damage to Gatineau Park’s parkway network, like one of its main arteries, Champlain Parkway.

Photo credit: Gatineau Park Facebook Page

Gatineau Park parkways remain closed after substantial rainfall Read More »

New municipal councillor joins STO board

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

A new face has joined the Société de transport de l’Outaouais board of directors. Catherine Craig-St-Louis, who recently joined municipal council as the Carrefour-de-l’Hôpital district councillor, replaced Rivière-Blanche district councillor Jean Lessard after reshuffling within the City’s committees and commissions.

“As the former project director and coordinator of the Gatineau office of Vivre en Ville, Ms. Craig-St-Louis will bring great expertise to the table in terms of sustainable mobility in Gatineau,” wrote the board’s vice-president Edmond Leclerc in a press release.

Craig-St-Louis was sworn into council alongside the City’s new mayor Maude Marquis Bissonnette on June 18 after winning their seats in the by-election. The new municipal councillor was recently appointed chair of the Commission sur les transports, les déplacements durables et la sécurité, making three of its 10 members Société de transport de l’Outaouais representatives.

The Société de transport de l’Outaouais board consists of seven directors appointed by the City. Five of the positions are filled by municipal councillors, while the other two are chosen from Gatineau’s residents to represent users of regular and paratransit services.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Mr. Jean Lessard for his contribution to the (Société de transport de l’Outaouais) and the many projects carried out by our board of directors since fall 2021, including the Rapibus extension project to the east,” wrote Leclerc.

Photo caption: Recently elected Carrefour-de-l’Hôpital district Catherine Craig-St-Louis joins the ranks of the Société de transport de l’Outaouais board of directors.

Photo credit: Société de transport de l’Outaouais Website

New municipal councillor joins STO board Read More »

Campbell’s Bay wharf gets a vibrant makeover

Taylor Clark

Local Journalism Initiative

CAMPBELL’S BAY – The future of Campbell’s Bay’s waterfront got a whole lot brighter with the unveiling of a new lighting project at the municipal wharf and boat ramp. Over 200 feet of waterproof LED strip lighting was installed on the wharf, increasing visibility and creating an inviting entryway into the municipality.

“The new lighting will undoubtedly enhance the charm of our waterfront, making it a must-visit destination for tourists and a source of pride for locals,” said Mayor Raymond Pilon in a press release.

The revamp of the waterfront also included the addition of street banners and a new welcome sign that showcases services available in Campbell’s Bay for visitors.

Sarah Bertrand, director general, said the installations were part of a vision plan to revitalize the waterfront and promote tourism, made possible by an investment of nearly $21,000 from the Entente de vitalisation signed between the MRC Pontiac and the Ministère des Affaires municipales et de l’Habitation as part of the Regions and Rurality Fund (FRR 2).

Photo – A new welcome sign greets visitors arriving at the Campbell’s Bay wharf. (AB)

Campbell’s Bay wharf gets a vibrant makeover Read More »

Alleyn-et-Cawood aims to reduce organic waste in trash with new compost bins

Taylor Clark

Local Journalism Initiative

ALLEYN-ET-CAWOOD – Residents will soon be rolling compost bins to the end of their driveways after the municipality was awarded a $14,242 grant from the Government of Québec.

“This project is another great example of the commitment of local people to protecting the environment and actively participating in the fight against climate change. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is a challenge we must tackle together for our own good and that of future generations,” said Mathieu Lacombe, Minister responsible for the Outaouais region. Lacombe made the announcement on behalf of Environment Minister Benoit Charette. Isabelle Cardinal, municipal director general, said the financial support paid half the cost of 400 compost bins to go along with the garbage and recycling bins acquired last year when the municipality switched to the “wheel bin system.”

“Our garbage bins are smaller than the recycling ones because the whole purpose is to reduce the amount of garbage we have,” said Cardinal. “We’re hoping we can reduce our garbage by 45% throughout the year with the composting service we’re integrating,” she added.

The residual materials sector represents the fifth largest emitter of greenhouse gases in the province, emitting about 4.49 million tonnes of carbon dioxide per year.

“We know reducing greenhouse gas emissions linked to landfilling is an effective way to fight climate change. For citizens, residential collection of organic materials is a simple way to contribute,” said Charette in a press release. Cardinal said the municipality plans to
study the volume of garbage collected under the new system and present the findings to council in September 2025.

Alleyn-et-Cawood aims to reduce organic waste in trash with new compost bins Read More »

Back to school initiative benefits hundreds of Aylmer students

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

With the help of the community, the Groupe communautaire Deschênes is hoping to provide 300 students in Aylmer with all the necessities to kick off the upcoming school year.

The Back to School Blitz was originally meant to provide 147 students from kindergarten to grade six in the Deschênes district with backpacks filled with school supplies. The initiative grew to support 153 more students across Aylmer with the involvement of the Centre Communautaire Entre Nous, Équipe Soutein-famille, Centre alimentaire Aylmer, and L’Autre Chez Soi.

But more backpacks mean more school supplies. Groupe communautaire Deschênes coordinator Ibrahim Diallo said the community centre seeks gently used supplies like paper, crayons, and notebooks to load the additional backpacks.

Donations can be dropped off at the Groupe Communautaire Deschenes located at 55 Chemin Vanier, Monday to Friday from 9 am to 4 pm. Monetary donations are also being accepted. Cash or cheques can be dropped off at the centre and e-transfers can be made to kbyrne@outlook.com, using the password Backtoschool. Tax receipts can be made for any donation of $20 or more.

Kathleen Fortin, who has been assisting in the back-to-school initiative, said many local businesses and organizations have been able to contribute by providing donations or dropping prices. “Everyone’s kind of rallying together, which is really nice.”

Those registered with the centre or another organization closer to them will be able to pick up the collected items at the Groupe Communautaire Deschenes from August 21 to 23 for a small fee. Once families are ready to “check out,” they will receive a 70 per cent discount on the entire purchase, said Diallo.

Any leftover supplies will benefit the 87 high school students on the centre’s waitlist.

Photo caption: Three hundred students across Aylmer will start the school year with new gear thanks to a Back to School Blitz organized by the Groupe Communautaire Deschenes.

Photo credit: Groupe communautaire Deschênes

Back to school initiative benefits hundreds of Aylmer students Read More »

Local health coalition consults public about encounters with healthcare system

Regional health coalition SOS Outaouais is gathering data from residents’ first-hand experiences and their opinions on the region’s health-care system, which has been a concern for some time.

Coordinated by the Gatineau Health Foundation, the regional health coalition brings together organizations and citizens across Outaouais in a collective voice to call on the National Assembly of Québec to remedy the region’s crumbling health-care network.

To better paint the reality of residents in Outaouais, the coalition launched a bilingual online consultation platform in late July. Consisting of two sections, the consultation process will allow SOS Outaouais to get a pulse check and to provide solutions to the challenges facing the health-care sector.

“It’s a pretty neat tool that we’ve been able to put forward and keep that momentum going during the summer,” said Jean Pigeon, Gatineau Health Foundation executive director and coalition spokesperson.

The first section allows users to share their opinions on the government’s efforts, funding allocated to the region, levels of concern, and the possible repercussions of what has been described as decades of neglect and underfunding.

The second portion asks residents to share their experiences with the region’s health-care system. “What we’ve been experiencing so far is a lot of people have some pretty horrible stories about how they’re being affected … because of what we’re dealing with in this region,” said Pigeon.

To help put faces to the numbers, the coalition plans to work with individuals who are willing to come forward and share these experiences with the public.

“What I’m seeing from the platform is a basic reflection of what we thought it was going to be. There’s a lot of people who are worried for themselves, for their families, for their friends.”

As of early August, over 160 individuals have participated in the consultation process. Many condemned the province for the lack of consideration for those in Outaouais, one even stating they were saving money to move across the bridge “to protect (their) future.”

Along with the online platform, the coalition has also been distributing free lawn signs to amplify the movement throughout the region. “I know there’s been a lot of those signs that went out and I’ve actually seen some in my neighbourhood,” stated Pigeon.

Only spanning a few questions, the consultation process takes minutes to complete depending on the amount written. As the situation continues to unfold in the region’s health-care network, the coalition plans to continue utilizing the platform to gauge residents’ opinions.

To lend your voice and participate in the consultation, visit sos-outaouais.v3.cocoriko.org/. For more information on the coalition and to acquire a lawn sign, check out the SOS Outaouais website at sosoutaouais.ca.

Photo caption: To keep the momentum going around the demands to correct the Outaouais health-care network, SOS Outaouais has launched various initiatives to encourage residents to lend their voice to the movement.

Photo credit: SOS Outaouais Facebook Page

Local health coalition consults public about encounters with healthcare system Read More »

MacKinnon joins Trudeau’s cabinet, replacing O’Regan

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

Three-term Liberal MP for Gatineau Steven MacKinnon has been adjusting to his new role as the Minister of Labour and Seniors since being appointed to the position in mid-July.

“I’ve had the pleasure of meeting my new team and immersing myself in my new duties,” MacKinnon wrote to Facebook. “Even with this new title, my commitments to the riding of Gatineau and all its citizens remains unchanged. I will continue to put your interests first when working with my cabinet colleagues. This is an important step for our riding, and I pledge to give the best of myself in this new role.”

MacKinnon participated in a swearing-in ceremony on July 19 alongside Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Governor General Mary Simon at Rideau Hall.

The change to the cabinet came after the previous minister Seamus O’Regan announced his resignation on July 18, citing family reasons. In a statement shared via X, O’Regan said he would not seek re-election but intended to continue to serve as the MP for St. John’s South- Mount Pearl until the next general election.

The MP for Gatineau joined the cabinet as the Leader of the Government in the House of Commons while Karina Gould was away on parental leave. In the role, MacKinnon “ accumulated a wealth of experience building consensus and working with partners to pass legislation,” read a statement from Trudeau’s office.

“He has advanced progress on health care, affordable housing, organized labour, and climate action – and has steered the government’s work to make life better for Canadians.”

MacKinnon previously served as the Liberal’s Chief Government Whip prior to his role as the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Public Services and Procurement.

Photo caption: In a swearing-in ceremony alongside Governor General Mary Simon, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Deputy Clerk of the Privy Council and Associate Secretary to the Cabinet Christiane Fox, MP for Gatineau Steven MacKinnon replaces former Minister of Labour and Seniors Seamus O’Regan.

Photo credit: Steven MacKinnon Facebook Page

MacKinnon joins Trudeau’s cabinet, replacing O’Regan Read More »

Support Gatineau Friendship Centre by donating used books

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

Have any lightly used books collecting dust on the shelf? The Maniwaki Native Friendship Centre’s point of service in Gatineau can take them off your hands.

“We’re trying to build a library for post-secondary students … but we also have another section where we have children’s books,” said the point of service’s operations manager Karen Smith.

Branching from the Maniwaki Native Friendship Centre, the Gatineau location officially opened its doors in May and has been providing support, guidance, and information services for Indigenous people in the area.

Smith said all genres varying in age and language were welcome, along with textbooks in good condition. With fall around the corner, the operations manager said the point of service was aiming to fill the shelves of its library.

“If ever it does become overwhelming, we’ll probably just give back to the community and ask people if they want to come get books,” said Smith.

Donations can be dropped off Monday to Thursday from 8 am to 4 pm, and on Fridays from 8 am to noon, at the Centre Asticou in parking lot 10. Smith added that the location was sometimes open until 7 pm to facilitate evening activities.

If you have any questions, the point of service can be contacted by phone at 819-934-4088 or by email at Gatineau-MNFC@maniwakinfc.ca.

Photo caption: Drop off your used books to the Maniwaki Native Friendship Centre’s point of service in Gatineau at the Centre Asticou.

Photo credit: Gatineau – Maniwaki Native Friendship Centre Facebook Page

Support Gatineau Friendship Centre by donating used books Read More »

Aylmer Arms Solidarity: Community unites to help uprooted residents

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

A community initiative has emerged to help people get back on their feet after a late June fire at the Aylmer Arms apartments.

Made up of Aylmer district councillors and members of local organizations, along with support from Pontiac MP André Fortin and Hull-Aylmer MP Greg Fergus, Aylmer Arms Solidarity is striving to mobilize the community and centralize fundraising efforts to support those displaced by the fire on the evening on June 29.

The Aylmer Arms apartments comprise 101 affordable housing units for those aged 55 and up with the average rent being $700 per month.

Galeries Aylmer general manager and president of the community campaign Guy Leblanc said the fire originated on the fourth floor but left smoke, soot, and water damage throughout the building, leaving many units inhabitable and temporarily relocating around 30 residents. But the larger issue was that 37 apartments were uninsured, said Leblanc.

In a previous interview with our newspaper, Aylmer Arms board president Stéphane Marcil said the building management required tenants’ insurance, but some residents did not acquire coverage. A resident’s tenants’ insurance would cover the loss of personal belongings and decontamination which does not fall under the Aylmer Arms building insurance. Efforts to decontaminate a single unit can cost the tenant up to $10,000.

The necessary work to decontaminate, dispose, and store goods during the work for the uninsured apartments was estimated to cost $350,000. “The objective at $350,000 is not a small amount but we know that the community in Aylmer is close,” said Leblanc.

With only a week into fundraising, traction had been made on the campaign’s online goal thermometer, collecting $8,950. Leblanc hoped to see donations overtake the thermometer in four months.

“The shortage of affordable housing in Gatineau is already a major challenge, and the supply of this type of housing is therefore extremely rare,” said Deschênes district councillor Caroline Murray. “I invite the population to show solidarity to support our neighbours. The community can really make a difference in allowing residents to remain in their neighbourhood, here in Aylmer.”

Donations can be made online at solidariteaylmerarmssolidarity.com and in person in donation boxes across Gatineau, like at the Aylmer Bulletin office in the Galeries Aylmer.

The community can also lend a hand by grabbing a fork at a spaghetti dinner on August 24 at the Aydelu Centre. Tickets ranging from $15 to $25 are available for meals from 5 to 6:30 p.m. and 7 to 8:30 p.m. More information is available on the Aylmer Arms Solidarity website.

Photo caption: The Aylmer Arms Solidarity Campaign is aiming to fundraise $350,000 to “rebuild lives and provide immediate support” to tenants whose apartments were devastated by the fire on June 29, 2024.

Photo credit: Alana Repstock

Aylmer Arms Solidarity: Community unites to help uprooted residents Read More »

STO welcomes first 100% electric bus

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

Gatineau residents may spot the Société de transport de l’Outaouais’ first-ever electric bus on the roads as it goes through a series of tests over the next few months before welcoming riders aboard.

“This is a historic day for (the Société de transport de l’Outaouais), marking the beginning of a major organizational transformation that will span about ten years,” Claude Jacob, executive director of operations, projects and operational excellence, wrote in a press release. “Our first e- bus will serve as a rolling laboratory to allow our teams to familiarize themselves with this new technology, our charging equipment, and the driving and maintenance of this type of vehicle.”

The tests with the Nova LFSe+ electric bus will also allow the public transportation network to collect data specific to the reality of the system to plan the launch of the bus.

“It is important for us to be able to familiarize ourselves with the robustness of our network and this new technology before being able to integrate this bus into the public transit service and welcome the first customers on board. We are giving ourselves time to do things right,” added Jacob.

By the end of 2027, the Société de transport de l’Outaouais planned to add up to 46 buses of the same model to its network. According to its website, the public transportation network is anticipated to have a fully electric fleet by 2042.

Photo caption: The Société de transport de l’Outaouais welcomes its first fully electric bus, #2401, to its fleet.

Photo credit: Société de transport de l’Outaouais Website

STO welcomes first 100% electric bus Read More »

New waste management contract; has FilloGreen cleaned up its act?

TAYLOR CLARK

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

LITCHFIELD – A waste management service based in Litchfield has been awarded the contract to “receive, transport, and dispose of household waste” across MRC Pontiac.

Against only one other bidder, Centre FilloGreen, who focuses on sorting, processing, recycling, and valorization of construction, renovation, and demolition materials, was given the contract after a resolution was passed at the June 19 Council of Mayors meeting.

FilloGreen President Roma Gauvreau said the company would be picking up where the previous contractor, McGrimmon Cartage of Shawville, left off. “We’ve been serving the area (with) our sorting centre, and this is a good contract for us to continue on the same path,” he said.

The MRC declined to comment on the new contract prior to it being signed to “avoid influencing the legal process.”

Some question the choice of awarding the contract to FilloGreen given the company’s track record. The company was found guilty and fined over $40,000 for four violations under the Environmental Quality Act in 2018, operating under the name Centre de tri Pontiac.

According to a press release from the Ministry of Environment, the company failed to respect the conditions of its authorization during the operation of its work in 2013. Offences included storing wood and metal in areas other than where specified, not waterproofing the sorting surfaces, as well as storing asphalt shingles outside, in violation of the Environment Quality Act.

The press release also listed a 2015 violation where the company was found to have failed to take the necessary measures to ensure materials were stored, treated, or eliminated in an authorized place.

FilloGreen was ordered to pay a $37,500 fine along with reimbursing $3,247 of prosecution costs incurred by the Ministry.

In 2019, Benoit Charette, then Environment Minister, issued an order demanding the Centre cease the deposit and burial of any type of residual materials in unauthorized locations. The waste management service was required to submit a plan to restore the premises and keep up to date with the Ministry while the restoration work was carried out.

Gauvreau told the Journal that FilloGreen has now developed a good working relationship with the Ministry and is looking forward to embarking on the new contract. Litchfield Mayor Colleen Larivière was happy to see the contract awarded to a company in the municipality. “This is going to be an opportunity for them to prove themselves, to make sure that they follow the rules and get things done the way that they’re supposed to,” she said.  

New waste management contract; has FilloGreen cleaned up its act? Read More »

Gatineau skeptical of 2019 decision to replace Alexandra Bridge

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

Gatineau municipal council was left with more questions than answers after the National Capital Commission presented an update on the Alexandra Bridge replacement project in early July.

“The Alexandra Bridge, I repeat, is the link between Gatineau and Ottawa,” said Versant district councillor Daniel Champagne. “It is the very symbol of the National Capital Region. And when we ask the question whether it is necessary to destroy it, and why destroy it, the answer is because we made this decision in 2019. For me, that does not reassure me.”

The Government of Canada ordered the interprovincial bridge to be replaced after a detailed inspection and life cycle analysis in 2019, but this has not deterred elected officials’ efforts to preserve the historic bridge.

The Alexandra Bridge has served as a crossing for motorists and pedestrians for more than 120 years and, according to the National Capital Commission, has reached the end of its life.

“Despite all current efforts to maintain the bridge, the assessments and studies are clear. The Alexandra Bridge will continue to deteriorate rapidly over the coming years. This will lead to more and more frequent closures to keep it safe,” said Bruno Fabien of the National Capital Commission.

Without the studies in hand, many of the council members argued other avenues should have been explored before finally settling on deconstructing the bridge.

“There is a Quebec expression … which says, “when you want to kill your dog, you say it has rabies.” In this context, with all respect, you are not convincing me in any way that this bridge cannot become a pedestrian bridge,” said Champagne.

With the slides mostly highlighting aesthetically pleasing photos, the district councillor said the presentation did not “unequivocally” demonstrate the infrastructure’s inability to be preserved, especially since restoration work was underway to keep the bridge in working order until deconstruction started in 2028.

“Let’s make efforts to maintain it for the next fifty years, but in a pedestrian context where we are creating an interesting network between the two shores which reaffirms our desire to be a region of the National Capital,” said Champagne.

Hull-Wright district councillor Steve Moran was also on the side of preservation and questioned whether the bridge’s heritage value was factored into the decision to replace the bridge.

“It’s hard to exaggerate the importance of the Alexandra Bridge for Gatineau’s identity. It’s very rare to see a photo that shows Gatineau and our city without having the bridge. Either that’s where the photo is taken from, or the bridge is in the photo. I have the impression that this identity is a little neglected in the discussion we had,” said Moran.

Fabien ensured the bridge’s legacy was examined in numerous studies along with various engineering reports indicating the infrastructure has surpassed its initial functionality.

“I think that the discussions should focus more on how we can ensure that, in 40 years, the people of the region will be as attached to the bridge as we are now,” said the National Capital Commission representative.

But just because a decision was made did not mean it could not be revisited, Steven Boivin argued as Aylmer district councillor. “There is a difference between making the choice and proving that choice … What I hear from at least a majority of people on the municipal council, is that (active transportation) has not been proven impossible. What is proven is that it is a choice that you made.”

Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette said council clearly conveyed the symbolic nature of the bridge which “(deserved) to be preserved.”

“We were told “trust us, there are studies,” but obviously we want to see them, we too want to be able to form an opinion based on the information they want to share with us,” said Marquis- Bissonnette. “I am not shaken in my conviction (to preserve the bridge), but what it tells me is that we must continue to ask questions.”

Photo caption: Although a decision was made in 2019, Gatineau council questions whether the Government of Canada would rethink replacing the Alexandra Bridge following a presentation from the National Capital Commission.

Photo credit: Taylor Clark

Gatineau skeptical of 2019 decision to replace Alexandra Bridge Read More »

Was Gatineau’s new logo a bold step in the right direction?

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

Shedding the “City of,” Gatineau took a bold stance and introduced residents to its new logo via social media on July 9.

“The current logo of the Ville de Gatineau is more than 20 years old,” said Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette. “This new logo embodies our collective pride, symbolizing our dynamism, our attachment to our territory, and our deep commitment to the development of the Gatineau population.”

The new logo was unveiled as part of the city’s efforts to modernize its brand image, which began in the fall of 2022 “to improve the experience of citizens.”

The familiar green and blue symbol remains, but beneath it, the new capitalized bold font, only spelling the word Gatineau, was found to be more daring and assertive. The capitalization and leaving out the words “City of” were to improve readability, which was noted to be an issue with the previous logo.

The modern logo aimed to capture a unifying brand that was recognizable and “(put) citizens first,” although they were never consulted. The overhaul of the logo was carried out internally with the help of the communications department.

While the department could not provide an exact dollar amount, it said the expenses incurred were operational and consisted of the salaries of the personnel involved. The process of gradually rolling out the new logo was not expected to have additional costs, as it would be paid from existing service budgets.

The simplified logo was not met with open arms by its citizens. The day-old Facebook post racked up close to 1,000 comments, many frustrated with the minute changes and the time spent creating the new logo.

“The old logo was visually better balanced with a connection between the lettering and the illustration. In the new version, there seem to be two separate elements,” one citizen commented online.

Another matter of contention was the use of the English word “bold” as part of the logo reveal, which many took as a hit to the French language. The communications department said the term was favoured from a marketing launch perspective as it referred to both the “bold” approach and font in the logo.

“This is a stylistic choice in an advertising context. Also note that under the Charter of the French Language, the use of the English is tolerated; however, French must be predominant in advertising in a significant way and have greater or equivalent visibility,” said the department.

The old logo was expected to continue to make appearances as the new logo would gradually make its way to signage, vehicles, and equipment. The same was said for the Service de police de la Ville de Gatineau and the Sécurité incendie which would eventually be revised to incorporate the modernized logo. The new full brand image was expected to be deployed throughout the city’s various platforms and communication tools in the coming months.

Photo caption (1): Gatineau Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette proudly stands beside the city’s new logo, revealed as part of the process to modernize Gatineau’s brand image.

Photo credit (1): Maude Marquis-Bissonnette Facebook Page

Photo caption (2): After 22 years with its previous logo, Gatineau unveils its new simplistic logo aimed to not only unify the city but also improve readability, which has been an issue with the old logo.

Photo credit (2): Ville de Gatineau Website

Was Gatineau’s new logo a bold step in the right direction? Read More »

What’s at risk?: Exhibition showcases concerns with Chalk River Near Surface Disposal Facility project

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

A series of multimedia exhibitions aimed to raise awareness about the Near Surface Disposal Facility project planned for Chalk River wrapped up at the Aylmer Marina on July 6.

Throughout May and June, Stop Nuclear Waste has organized these exhibits at various locations across the Ottawa Valley to showcase what was at stake with the January 9th approval of a licence for the controversial project by the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission. The decision came without free, prior, and informed consent of the Algonquin Nation, which Kebaowek First Nation argued was a clear violation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

“It’s a betrayal of a series of sacred trusts. Anishinaabe aki (land) was not created for business profit. Our Nation was not built to turn the (Kichi Sibi), our great river, into a self-storage unit for nuclear waste,” former Kebaowek First Nation councillor Verna Polson told the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission during the Near Surface Disposal Facility hearing in June 2022.

Kebaowek First Nation is among the 11 communities making up the Omamiwininiwag or the Algonquin Nation, who have spent time immemorial on the land surrounding the Kichi Sibi (Ottawa River). The First Nation was also one of four communities involved with Stop Nuclear Waste, a community movement of Indigenous leaders, local members, and allies who wish to hold the government and the Nuclear Safety Commission accountable for years of irresponsibly disposing nuclear waste.

Since its establishment in 1944, the Chalk River Laboratories has been a major research and development site that led to advancements in nuclear technology. A large share of the world’s supply of medical radioisotopes was produced at the site until the nuclear reactor was shut down in 2018. The site was also home to a handful of incidents over the years, the most recent being the discharge of toxic sewage. The incident came months after Canadian Nuclear Laboratories was awarded the licence for the Near Surface Disposal Facility.

The facility would allow the permanent disposal of solid radioactive and non-radioactive legacy waste but would require the removal of the mountainside along the river to make way for the waste disposal facility. According to an Indigenous-led assessment by Kebaowek First Nation and Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg, storing over a million cubic metres of legacy nuclear waste would directly impact the water quality, and ability of animals and plants to live along with other species in the watershed. On top of risks to the waterway, the project would also require the clearing of 37 hectares of old growth forest where Kebaowek First Nation found active traces of wildlife.

Overlooking the Ottawa River, attendees of the exhibition came face to face with images and depictions of endangered and culturally significant species like lake sturgeon, eastern wolves, and bears that would lose their habitats to the disposal site.

Kebaowek member Mary-Lou Chevrier believes she has already seen first-hand the effects of the site’s waste on the surrounding wildlife. Upon conducting a fish study in April, Chevrier was met by what she described as a metallic odour, dead aquatic animals, and “lethargic” lake sturgeons where the Petawawa River meets with the Ottawa River.

“(The sturgeons) were in about 14 inches of water and they were swimming in a circle. This is obsessive compulsive behaviour, and I was able to actually pick them up by hand out of the water,” said Chevrier.

While it was exciting to hold the ancient fish, Chevrier said the moment was also very disheartening because she had spent decades trying to reel one in.

“I think you’re privileged to be able to see one and to be able to handle them in that way, but I felt that something definitely wasn’t right,” she said.

Chevrier noted the sighting was around the time the public finally learned of the toxic sewage discharge that occurred months prior. Although there was no evidence connecting the sewage to the sturgeon’s odd behaviour, Chevrier worried about what the discharge meant for aquatic life.

“In the meantime, I had been coming across a lot of anglers who were catching and eating fish, so that really stuck with me. I felt that there should have been earlier public notification.”

The decision by the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission was challenged by Kebaowek First Nation in a judicial review in front of the Federal Court from July 10 to 11.

The First Nation presented an oral argument based on both the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the United Nations Declaration Act. In the spirit of reconciliation and protecting all life, Kebaowek First Nation believed Canada was obligated to carry out free, prior, and informed consent into the consultation process as stated in Article 29.2 of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples that was put into Canadian law by the passing of the United Nations Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act in 2021.

Those wanting to support the cause can add their name to a list of signatories demanding the Government of Canada to make no decision in terms of issuing a licence to the Canadian Nuclear Laboratories. Stop Nuclear Waste’s petition can be found online at http://www.stopnuclearwaste.com/petition. Contributions can also be made to Kebaowek First Nation’s legal fund by donating to https://gofund.me/7ce16728.

Photo caption: A painting by Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg artist Destiny Cole highlights the speculated relationship between lake sturgeon and hickorynut mussels, which are both included as endangered in the official Species at Risk in Ontario list.

Photo credit: Taylor Clark

What’s at risk?: Exhibition showcases concerns with Chalk River Near Surface Disposal Facility project Read More »

Police pursuit leads to Buckingham golf course before ending on foot

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

Two individuals were arrested on July 8 after leading police on a short chase that ended with the suspects’ vehicle being stuck on a golf course in Buckingham.

While on evening patrol, the Service de police de la Ville de Gatineau began to pursue a vehicle that refused to stop upon request. The car had caught the attention of police earlier due to its poor general condition, along with mismatched front and rear number plates.

Throughout the pursuit, the driver was seen committing several Highway Safety Code violations, which led police to call off the chase, citing safety concerns. A few moments later, the suspect vehicle was spotted by police at the intersection of Church and Soucy streets but managed to bypass the patrol car that was trying to block its path.

Officers later obtained information that the suspect vehicle had made its way onto the Club de golf Buckingham on Bélanger Street where several people were located. The car was found stuck on the golf course with the driver no longer aboard.

Suspecting the driver fled on foot, a perimeter was established, and police began their search. The suspect was quickly found getting into a taxi with another individual. The 46-year-old man and 44-year-old woman were arrested and transported to the police station. Upon meeting with investigators, the man was linked to a break-in that occurred earlier that day at a business on Boulevard de la Gappe in the Gatineau sector.

Both appeared before the Court of Québec on July 9. The man faced several charges including fleeing, dangerous driving, driving while disqualified, obstructing police, and breaches of conditions. The woman faced charges of breach of probation along with possession of drugs.

Photo caption: A police chase ending around the Club de golf Buckingham led to the arrest of a man and a woman on July 8.

Photo credit: Camera du nuit Facebook Page

Police pursuit leads to Buckingham golf course before ending on foot Read More »

Police search for 15-year-old missing since May

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

The Service de police de la Ville de Gatineau is seeking the public’s assistance in locating 15- year-old Jasmine Heise.

The teenager left her home in the Orée-de-Parc district in the Hull sector on May 29 and has yet to return. Heise was last seen in the Bank Street area of Ottawa in June and could be on the other side of the bridge in Ontario.

Heise was described as a white, English-speaking teenager. She measures five feet, four inches tall and weighs approximately 100 pounds. The 15-year-old has blue eyes and long hair with often-changed colour.

She was last seen wearing a black hooded sweater along with black pants and black shoes.

Those with information on the location of Heise are invited to contact the Service de police de la Ville de Gatineau at 819-246-0222.

Photo caption: The public is invited to share information related to the location of 15-year-old Jasmine Heise, who has been missing from the Hull sector since late May.

Photo credit: Ville de Gatineau Website

Police search for 15-year-old missing since May Read More »

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