Briefing about the Federal Electoral District of LaSalle—Émard—Verdun, Canada

The federal electoral district of LaSalle—Émard—Verdun is located in the southwestern part of the island of Montreal, Quebec, Canada. It is a diverse area that encompasses the borough of Verdun, parts of the borough of Le Sud-Ouest, and the city of LaSalle. The district is bordered by the St. Lawrence River to the south, the city of Westmount to the east, and the borough of Côte-des-Neiges—Notre-Dame-de-Grâce to the north.

Population centres

The three main population centres in the district are LaSalle, Verdun, and Ville-Émard. LaSalle is known for its parks and green spaces, including Angrignon Park, which features a large lake, picnic areas, and hiking trails. Verdun is a diverse community with a rich history, and it is home to several community events and cultural festivals throughout the year. Ville-Émard is a residential neighbourhood that is situated along the Lachine Canal, which is a popular location for cycling, walking, and boating.

Issues and events

In recent years, the district has faced several issues and events that have had a significant impact on the community. One of the most notable events was the 2019 Quebec floods, which caused extensive damage in parts of LaSalle and Verdun. The floods resulted in the evacuation of thousands of residents, and many homes and businesses were damaged or destroyed. In response to the floods, the community came together to support those affected, and local organizations worked to provide assistance and resources to residents.

Economy

The district is home to several major employers, including the MUHC Glen site, which is one of the largest hospital complexes in Canada. The site is home to several hospitals and research centres, and it employs thousands of medical professionals and support staff. The area is also home to several industrial parks and commercial areas, which provide employment opportunities for residents. One recent event that had a major impact on the economy was the COVID-19 pandemic, which resulted in the closure of many businesses and the loss of jobs in the district and across Canada.

Important landmarks

The district is home to several important landmarks, including the Lachine Canal, which is a historic waterway that played a key role in the development of Montreal's economy. The canal is now a popular location for cycling, walking, and boating, and it is home to several historic buildings and sites. Another important attraction is the Parc des Rapides, which is a nature park that features several hiking trails and scenic views of the St. Lawrence River. It is a popular location for bird watching and outdoor recreation.

Arts and culture

The district is home to several cultural institutions, including the Maison de la culture Marie-Uguay, which hosts a variety of cultural events and performances throughout the year. The district is also known for its annual festivals, including the Verdun Street Fest and the LaSalle Craft Fair. These events showcase local artisans and performers, and they are an important part of the community's cultural identity.

Electoral issues

During the 2021 federal election, the economic and social issues that were most important to the residents of LaSalle—Émard—Verdun included job creation, affordable housing, and access to healthcare. The COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the economy and public health were major concerns for residents, as were issues related to climate change and environmental protection.

Community organizations

There are several community organizations that are active in the district, including the Verdun Senior Citizens Council, which provides support and services to seniors in the community. Another important organization is the LaSalle Community Action Association, which works to address issues related to poverty and social justice. Other organizations include the Atwater Library and Computer Centre, which provides resources and services to residents, and the Centre de Santé et de Services Sociaux de Verdun, which provides healthcare and social services to the community.

Multicultural groups

The district is known for its multicultural community, with significant cultural demographic segments including French-Canadians, Anglophones, and Italian-Canadians. The area is also home to several immigrant communities, including those from Haiti, North Africa, and Latin America. The diversity of the community is celebrated through various community events and festivals, including the Montreal Caribbean Festival and the Italian Week festival.

Overall, LaSalle—Émard—Verdun is a diverse and vibrant community that is home to a variety of cultural and economic attractions. With its location along the St. Lawrence River and the historic Lachine Canal, as well as its strong cultural identity and active community organizations, the district is a significant part of Montreal's social fabric.