Briefing on the Federal Electoral District of Gaspésie—Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine

Located in the easternmost part of Quebec, Canada, the federal electoral district of Gaspésie—Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine is a geographically vast and culturally diverse region. The district encompasses a large section of the Gaspé Peninsula, including the regional county municipalities of Haute-Gaspésie, Avignon, Bonaventure, and Côte-de-Gaspé, as well as the remote archipelago of Îles-de-la-Madeleine, about 200 kilometers off the northeast coast of Prince Edward Island. Known for its natural beauty, rich history, and unique cultural heritage, the district is home to a population of mostly French-speaking Canadians, as well as a growing number of First Nations, English-speaking, and immigrant communities.

Population centres

The district includes several notable towns and cities, each with its own distinct character and contribution to the region's economy and culture. Among them are:

• Gaspé: The largest city in the region, Gaspé serves as the administrative and commercial center of the peninsula. It's home to various government offices, schools, hospitals, and stores, as well as a port and an airport. Gaspé is also a popular tourist destination, known for its scenic views, beaches, museums, and festivals.
• Percé: Located on the southern tip of the peninsula, Percé is a picturesque village famous for its landmark rock formation, the Percé Rock, and its proximity to the Gaspé National Park. The village has a thriving local art scene and is visited by thousands of tourists every year.
• Bonaventure: Situated on the Baie des Chaleurs, Bonaventure is a historic town with a strong Acadian heritage. It boasts a beautiful waterfront park, a museum, and various cultural events, including a traditional Acadian festival called the "Fête des chants de marins".
• Îles-de-la-Madeleine: Comprised of six inhabited islands and numerous smaller ones, the Îles-de-la-Madeleine are a remote and idyllic archipelago accessible by ferry or plane. The islands are known for their pristine beaches, dunes, cliffs, and lighthouses, as well as their fishing and tourism industries. The two largest towns on the islands are Cap-aux-Meules and Havre-Aubert, both of which offer a mix of modern amenities and traditional charm.

Issues and events

Between 2019 and 2022, the Gaspésie—Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine district faced several local issues and events that made headlines in the region and beyond. Some of these include:

• COVID-19 pandemic: Like other regions in Quebec and Canada, Gaspésie—Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to lockdowns, border closures, and economic disruptions. Despite the challenges, the district managed to keep its infection rates relatively low compared to other areas, thanks in part to its remote location and strong community support.
• Atlantic Loop project: In 2020, the federal government announced its intention to develop a clean energy corridor along the Atlantic coast, linking several provinces and territories with renewable electricity infrastructure. The Gaspésie—Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine district was identified as a potential hub for wind, solar, and hydropower projects, which could create jobs and boost the local economy.
• Fisheries disputes: The district has a long history of fishing and relies heavily on its seafood industry. However, ongoing disputes over lobster and crab fishing rights between Indigenous and non-Indigenous groups have led to tensions and occasional violence in recent years. The issue has raised broader questions about resource management, reconciliation, and the role of government in protecting Indigenous rights.

Economy

The economy of Gaspésie—Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine is diverse and includes several major employers and economic sectors. These include:

• Fishing and seafood: The district has a rich fishing heritage and is known for its lobster, crab, shrimp, and scallop fishing. The industry provides jobs and income to thousands of people in the region, from fishermen to processors to exporters. This website provides a list of local seafood producers and retailers.
• Tourism: Gaspésie—Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors for its natural beauty, outdoor activities, cultural events, and food. The tourism industry includes accommodations, restaurants, shops, and tour operators, among others. This website provides information on attractions, accommodations, and events in the region.
• Renewable energy: The district has strong renewable energy potential, particularly in wind and solar power. The government and private companies have invested in several projects to harness the region's natural resources and reduce its carbon footprint. Some of the major players in that include Innergex and Boralex.
• Education and healthcare: The district has various schools, colleges, and hospitals that employ many people and provide essential services to the community. The main post-secondary institution in the district is the Cégep de la Gaspésie et des Îles, which offers college-level programs in various fields. The main hospital is the Centre hospitalier de Gaspé, which provides acute and long-term care to residents.

In recent years, the economy of the district has faced both opportunities and challenges. On the positive side, the tourism industry has grown, thanks to increased marketing efforts and new attractions. The seafood industry has also seen some improvements, such as better pricing and quality control. On the negative side, the district has experienced a decline in population and aging demographics, which limit its workforce and consumer base. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted several businesses and industries, particularly those that rely on travel and hospitality.

Important landmarks

Gaspésie—Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine is home to many natural and cultural landmarks that showcase the region's unique character and history. Some of these include:

• Gaspé National Park: Located in the heart of the Gaspé Peninsula, Gaspé National Park is a vast wilderness area known for its mountains, forests, lakes, and rivers. The park offers various outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, swimming, and camping. This website provides more information about the park's services and attractions.
• Percé Rock: A limestone cliff in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, Percé Rock is a natural wonder that attracts millions of visitors every year. The rock formation is several hundred feet tall and features an arch that has eroded over time. This website provides a stunning photo of the rock.
• Reford Gardens: Located in Grand-Métis, a village in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region adjacent to Gaspésie, Reford Gardens is a renowned botanical garden that showcases the flora and fauna of the region. The garden is famous for its collection of Himalayan blue poppies, which bloom in June and July. This website provides more information about the garden's history and features.

Arts and culture

The district has a rich cultural heritage that reflects its diverse population and history. Some of the major events and institutions that celebrate that heritage include:

• Les Rencontres internationales de la photographie en Gaspésie: A biennial photography festival that showcases the work of local and international artists in various public spaces across the region. The festival attracts thousands of visitors and promotes the region's culture and landscapes. This website provides more details on the festival's programming and edition.
• Cégep de la Gaspésie et des Îles: As the region's main post-secondary institution, the Cégep de la Gaspésie et des Îles plays a crucial role in educating the next generation of leaders in various fields, from arts and culture to sciences and trades. The college also engages with the community through its cultural activities and partnerships. This website provides more details on the college's programs and services.
• Les Violons du Roy: An internationally renowned chamber orchestra based in Quebec City, Les Violons du Roy has been performing concerts in Gaspésie and other regions for many years. The orchestra presents classical and baroque music in various venues and collaborates with local artists and organizations. This website provides more information about the orchestra's mission and repertoire.

Electoral issues

During the 2021 federal election in Canada, the Gaspésie—Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine district focused on several key issues that matter to its residents and voters. These included:

• Economic recovery: Many voters in the district were concerned about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the local economy and wanted to know what the parties and candidates would do to create jobs, support small businesses, and increase investment in the region. Some of the proposed solutions included infrastructure projects, tax incentives, and training programs.
• Climate change and energy transition: With the growing interest in renewable energy projects in the district, many voters were curious about the parties' and candidates' stance on climate change and the transition to clean energy. Some of the questions raised included how to balance economic and environmental concerns, how to address the impact of natural disasters on the region, and how to support Indigenous and local communities in the transition.
• Social and cultural issues: The district has a diverse population and faces various social and cultural challenges, such as language rights, access to healthcare, and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. Some of the issues that came up during the election included the role of government in preserving language and culture, the need for more resources and support for Indigenous communities, and the importance of promoting diversity and inclusion in all aspects of society.

Community organizations

The district is home to many community organizations that provide essential services and support to various sectors of the population. Some of the most notable ones include:

• Carrefour jeunesse-emploi: A non-profit organization that helps young people aged 16 to 35 transition into the workforce, offering job search assistance, training, and entrepreneurial support. This website provides more information about the organization's programs and services.
• La Grande Table: A collective of local food producers and artisans who work together to promote and sell their products, ranging from meat and vegetables to cheese and beer. The collective operates several markets and stores in the region and offers catering and event services. This website provides more details on the collective's members and products.
• Association touristique régionale: A tourism association that represents the interests of local businesses and stakeholders in the tourism industry, advocating for policies and programs that support the sector's growth and sustainability. The association also provides information and marketing resources to visitors and potential investors. This website provides more information on the association's mandate and services.
• Conseil des arts et des lettres du Québec: A government agency that supports artists and cultural organizations in Quebec, providing grants and services for creation, production, dissemination, and cultural mediation. The agency has several regional offices, including one in the Gaspé Peninsula. This website provides more information on the agency's programs and funding opportunities.
• Regroupement des organismes communautaires autonomes jeunesse du Québec: A network of independent community organizations that work with young people in various fields, such as education, health, social justice, and arts. The network advocates for youth rights and interests and provides a platform for collaboration and exchange. This website provides more details on the network's members and activities.

Multicultural groups

The district has a multicultural population that includes several ethnic and linguistic groups. Among them, the most significant are:

• Acadians: The descendants of French settlers who arrived in the region in the 17th century, the Acadians have played a significant role in the history and culture of Gaspésie—Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine. They have their own language, literature, music, and cuisine, which are celebrated in various festivals and institutions, such as the Musée acadien du Québec and the Fête des chants de marins.
• Indigenous peoples: The district is home to several Indigenous communities, including the Mi'kmaq, the Innu, and the Maliseet. These communities have a strong connection to the land, the sea, and their traditional knowledge and practices. They also face significant challenges, such as poverty, health disparities, and ongoing colonialism. The federal and provincial governments have committed to working with them on various issues, such as resource management, language and cultural revitalization, and reconciliation. This website provides more information about the Mi'kmaq Nation of Gaspésie.
• English-speakers: Although French is the predominant language in the district, there is a significant Anglophone minority, particularly in the eastern part of the peninsula. Many of them are descendants of Scottish or Irish immigrants who settled in the region in the 18th and 19th centuries. They have their own cultural institutions, such as the Gaspé Historical Society and the Scottish Heritage Association.

Overall, the Gaspésie—Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine district is a vibrant and diverse region that offers many opportunities and challenges for its residents and visitors. Its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and entrepreneurial spirit make it a unique and important part of Quebec and Canada.