Briefing on the Federal Electoral District of Laurier—Sainte-Marie

Located in the province of Quebec, Canada, Laurier—Sainte-Marie is a diverse urban area that includes portions of the Ville-Marie and Plateau-Mont-Royal boroughs of Montreal. The district's boundaries were redrawn in 2015 and cover an approximate area of 14 square kilometers. The district is named after Sir Wilfrid Laurier, Canada's seventh Prime Minister, and Sainte-Marie, a neighborhood with significant historical and cultural significance.

Population centres

The district of Laurier—Sainte-Marie includes several population centres, including Montreal's Plateau-Mont-Royal, which is known for its vibrant nightlife and cultural diversity. Additionally, the district includes the historic neighbourhood of Sainte-Marie, which was founded in 1693 and has notable landmarks such as the Notre-Dame-de-la-Defense church. The Laurier—Sainte-Marie district is also home to several significant educational institutions that include the Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM) and the Collège de Montréal.

Issues and events

The district of Laurier—Sainte-Marie has seen several key news events and issues specifically local to the district between 2019 and 2022. One notable issue has been a proposed development project in the Mile End neighbourhood that has faced opposition from local residents concerned about the impact of the project on the surrounding community. Additionally, there has been ongoing debate regarding the future of Montreal's Metro system, including several proposals for expansion and improvement. Another significant issue in the district has been homelessness and affordable housing, with advocates pushing for more support and investment in affordable housing initiatives.

Economy

The Laurier—Sainte-Marie district has a diverse economy that includes several major employers and industries. The district is home to the UQAM, one of Canada's most prominent French-language universities, and the Collège de Montréal. The gaming industry is also significant in the region, with companies such as EA Montreal and Ubisoft Montreal making significant contributions to the sector. The district is also home to several significant cultural institutions, including the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and the Musée d'art contemporain de Montréal. A recent event that had a profound impact on the district's economy was the COVID-19 pandemic and associated restrictions, which had a significant impact on businesses and cultural institutions across the region.

Important landmarks

The district of Laurier—Sainte-Marie is home to several significant landmarks and attractions. The Notre-Dame-de-la-Defense church in the historic Sainte-Marie neighbourhood is one such landmark, with its distinctive Italian Renaissance style architecture. The district is also home to several notable parks and green spaces, including Parc de la Fontaine and Parc Laurier, which are popular with residents and visitors alike. Another significant attraction in the district is the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, which contains an extensive collection of Canadian and international art.

Arts and culture

The Laurier—Sainte-Marie district has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with several notable cultural events and institutions. One such institution is the Musée d'art contemporain de Montréal, which features contemporary art from Canada and around the world. The district is also host to several festivals, including the Montreal International Jazz Festival, which has been held annually since 1980. Another notable cultural institution in the region is the Théâtre de Quat'Sous, a renowned theatre that has hosted productions from Quebec's most notable playwrights.

Electoral issues

During the 2021 federal election, the Laurier—Sainte-Marie district saw significant debate regarding economic and social issues. One of the primary issues was affordable housing, with the current authorities facing criticism for not doing enough to create low-income housing opportunities. There was also significant discussion regarding public transportation infrastructure, with many candidates proposing plans for increased investment in the Metro system.

Community organizations

The district of Laurier—Sainte-Marie is home to several important economic and social community organizations. One such organization is the Sainte-Marie Community Development Corporation, which works with local residents and businesses to promote economic development and community building initiatives. Another notable organization is the Plateau-Mont-Royal Community Action Group, which advocates for and coordinates community-led initiatives covering topics such as health, social justice and environment.

Multicultural groups

The Laurier—Sainte-Marie district has a diverse population, with several significant cultural demographic segments present in the region. One such group is the Haitian community, who have made significant contributions to the region's cultural and economic landscape. The district is also home to a significant Jewish community, with several synagogues and community organizations serving the area.

In summary, the Laurier—Sainte-Marie district is a diverse and dynamic urban area that is home to several significant landmarks, cultural institutions, and community organizations. The region has seen significant debate over economic and social issues, and there is a rich and vibrant arts and culture scene.