Briefing on Jonquière Federal Electoral District

The Jonquière federal electoral district is situated in Quebec, Canada. It consists of several population centers, including Jonquière, Chambord, Larouche, Lac-Bouchette, and Saint-Prime. The district has a rich culture, and there are several attractions and organizations worth mentioning. In this briefing, I will provide information on the most significant cities, key events and issues between 2019 and 2022, major employers, important landmarks, arts and cultural institutions, electoral issues during the 2021 federal election, as well as community and multicultural organizations.

Population Centres

1. Jonquière: This is the largest city in the district and serves as the commercial and industrial center. It has a rich history and culture, with several museums and art galleries celebrating its heritage.
2. Chambord: This small town has a strong agricultural community, with several dairy farms and an apple orchard. Its natural beauty makes it an attractive tourist destination for those who enjoy camping and hiking.
3. Lac-Bouchette: Known for its scenic lake, the town is perfect for fishing and boating. It's also famous for its local food, such as smoked trout and maple syrup.
4. Saint-Prime: This town is famous for its annual Festival Country, which celebrates country music and Quebecois culture. It's also home to several artisans who make and sell traditional handcrafted goods.
5. Larouche: This small village has a strong forestry industry that drives its economy. It's also home to several small businesses that cater to tourists visiting the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region.

Issues and Events

1. Climate Change: The district has seen several extreme weather events in recent years, including flooding, heatwaves, and heavy snowfall. Residents and local authorities are placing more emphasis on reducing carbon emissions and increasing the use of clean energy.
2. Infrastructure: The district's road network and internet connectivity have been the subject of several debates. Several small towns and villages lack robust broadband services, which is crucial for economic development and quality of life.
3. Language: The region is predominantly francophone, and there have been concerns about the preservation of the French language in the face of globalization and immigration.

Economy

The district's economy is anchored in several industries, including forestry, agriculture, and tourism. Major employers in the region include:

1. Resolute Forest Products operates several sawmills and wood products facilities in Jonquière, employing over 900 people.
2. Olymel operates a large pork processing plant in Chambord, employing over 1400 employees.
3. St-Hubert operates a franchise restaurant in Jonquière, employing over 50 people.
4. Sépaq manages several provincial parks in the region, employing over 100 people.
5. Les Productions Horticoles Demers operates a greenhouse producing vegetable crops and bedding plants in Jonquière, employing over 70 people.

A recent event that had a profound impact on the district's economy is the COVID-19 pandemic. Many businesses were forced to shut down temporarily, and unemployment rates rose. However, the federal government's pandemic relief funds have helped mitigate the impact.

Important Landmarks

1. Saguenay Fjord National Park is a natural wonder that attracts tourists from all over the world. Visitors can explore the fjord via boat tours or hiking trails.
2. The Pulperie Museum in Jonquière is a cultural institution highlighting the region's industrial heritage. It features several exhibits and hosts cultural events throughout the year.
3. The Saint-Jean-Lake is a popular destination for beachgoers, boaters, and anglers. The Lake is also home to an annual sandcastle competition, attracting participants from across the province.
4. Ciné-Parc Rivière-du-Moulin is a drive-in movie theater in Larouche. It provides a unique entertainment experience for families and groups.
5. The Monts-Valin National Park in Saint-Fulgence is a winter wonderland. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and dog sledding.

Arts and Culture

1. Festival Country de Saint-Prime is an annual event that celebrates the region's country music and western culture. The festival attracts thousands of visitors and features live music and dancing.
2. Théâtre Banque Nationale is a cultural institution that showcases the region's arts scene. It features plays, musical performances, and cultural events.
3. The Jonquière Sports Palace hosts several sporting events throughout the year, including ice hockey, figure skating, and curling.
4. The Festival des Bières du Monde de Saguenay is an annual celebration of craft beer from around the world. Visitors can sample hundreds of beers and enjoy live music and food.
5. Festival Jazz & Blues de Saguenay is an annual music event that showcases Quebec's jazz and blues talent. The festival attracts thousands of visitors and is hosted in several venues across the region.

Electoral Issues

During the 2021 federal election, several issues were raised in the Jonquière district. The region's infrastructure, including roads and internet connectivity, was a hot topic, with several candidates promising improvements. The COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on small businesses and the tourism industry were also issues of concern. In addition, issues surrounding access to healthcare and education were widely debated.

Community Organizations

1. The Chambord Farmers Market promotes local agriculture by selling fresh produce and homemade goods by farmers and artisans.
2. The Saguenay Youth Center provides support to youth through educational programs, arts and crafts, and sports activities.
3. La Ruche Jonquière is a non-profit organization that supports local charities through fundraising and community outreach.
4. The La Passerelle Women's Shelter supports women and children fleeing domestic violence by providing a safe space, assistance, and support.
5. Les Artisans of Jonquière is a collective of local artisans who create and sell handmade goods. The organization provides support and resources to its members, helping to sustain the region's artistic and cultural heritage.

Multicultural Groups

The Jonquière district is predominantly francophone, with a small anglophone and indigenous population. The district has a diverse immigrant population, with residents from several countries, including Haiti, Syria, and China. The ELAN Saguenay organization supports the region's English-speaking community, while organisations such as Accueil des immigrants du Saguenay Lac-Saint-Jean supports the integration and settlement of new immigrants.