Summary

Bellechasse—Les Etchemins—Lévis is a federal electoral district located in the province of Quebec, Canada. It covers an area in the southeastern part of the province and includes the regional county municipalities of Bellechasse, Les Etchemins, Lévis, and one part of La Nouvelle-Beauce.

Population Centres

The district includes several significant population centres, including the cities of Lévis and Saint-Lambert-de-Lauzon, as well as the towns of Saint-Anselme, Sainte-Claire, Lac-Etchemin, and Sainte-Justine. Lévis is a major suburb of Quebec City, located just across the river. It has a population of over 142,000 people and is known for its historic district, as well as its many parks and outdoor recreational opportunities. Sainte-Justine, located in the Les Etchemins region, is known for its agricultural industry and is home to the annual agricultural fair, the Expo de Sainte-Justine.

Issues and Events

Between 2019 and 2022, several key issues and events have shaped the local landscape in Bellechasse—Les Etchemins—Lévis. In early 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on the economy and daily life in the region. In response, the local government implemented strict measures to reduce the spread of the virus, including restrictions on public gatherings and the closure of non-essential businesses. In June 2021, the region was hit by severe flooding that caused significant damage to homes and businesses.

Economy

There are several major employers in the region, including the Desjardins Group, a large financial institution with a significant presence in Lévis. The region is also home to many small businesses, particularly in agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. In recent years, local officials have made significant investments in infrastructure, including improvements to highways and the development of the Trans Canada Trail, in an effort to attract more tourists to the region. However, the COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on the tourism industry, with many businesses forced to close or reduce operations due to restrictions on travel and public gatherings.

Important Landmarks

Bellechasse—Les Etchemins—Lévis is home to many natural attractions, including the Massif du Sud regional park, which offers hiking, skiing, and wildlife viewing opportunities. The region is also home to the Chutes-de-la-Chaudière, a series of waterfalls located just outside of Lévis. Other notable landmarks in the region include Forts-de-Lévis National Historic Site, the Maison Alphonse-Desjardins, and the Musée de la mémoire vivante.

Arts and Culture

The region has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with many local festivals and events throughout the year. One of the most popular events is the Festivent de Lévis, a 10-day music and entertainment festival held every summer. The region is also home to several museums and cultural institutions, including the Musée régional de la Côte-du-Sud and the Musée maritime de Québec.

Electoral Issues

During the 2021 federal election, the economy and jobs were major issues for voters in Bellechasse—Les Etchemins—Lévis. Many residents are concerned about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on local businesses and jobs, and are looking for solutions to help the economy recover. Other important issues include healthcare, infrastructure, and support for farmers.

Community Organizations

There are many important community organizations in the district, including the Chambre de commerce de Lévis, which advocates for the interests of local businesses, the Table régionale de gestion intégrée des ressources et du territoire de Chaudière-Appalaches, which works to manage regional resources and land use planning, and La Miviludes, which provides support and services for victims of violence and abuse.

Multicultural Groups

While the majority of the population in Bellechasse—Les Etchemins—Lévis is francophone, there are also significant cultural groups from other backgrounds. The region is home to a growing English-speaking community, as well as a significant population of Indigenous Peoples. The region is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion, and has several organizations that work to support cultural exchange and understanding among different groups.

Overall, Bellechasse—Les Etchemins—Lévis is a region with a rich cultural heritage, a diverse and growing population, and many natural and cultural attractions. While the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the region, there is a strong sense of community and resilience, and local officials are working hard to support recovery and growth in the coming years.