Briefing on Mégantic—L'Érable Electoral District

Mégantic—L'Érable is a federal electoral district in the province of Quebec in Canada. Located in the central-southern region of the province, it includes a mix of both urban and rural communities.

Population Centres

The population centres in Mégantic—L'Érable include:

• Thetford Mines - The largest city in the district, Thetford Mines has been a hub of mining activity since the late 19th century. The city is known for its production of asbestos and other minerals.
• Victoriaville - The second-largest city in the district, Victoriaville is a major centre for agriculture and manufacturing. The city is home to several large industrial parks and has a diversified economy.
• Disraeli - Located on the banks of the Chaudière River, Disraeli is a small town that has a rich history in the region. Its economy is primarily based on agriculture and forestry.

Issues and Events

Between 2019 and 2022, Mégantic—L'Érable experienced a number of key events and issues that were specific to the region. These include:

• The closure of the Jeffrey Mine in Asbestos - The Jeffrey Mine, once the largest asbestos mine in the world, closed in 2012 due to declining demand and health concerns associated with asbestos exposure. The closure had a significant impact on the local economy and the community as a whole.
• The COVID-19 pandemic - Like many regions throughout Canada, the COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on Mégantic—L'Érable. The region saw several outbreaks in long-term care facilities, and many businesses had to adapt to new safety protocols and restrictions.
• The expansion of wind energy projects - In recent years, several wind energy projects have been proposed and implemented throughout Mégantic—L'Érable. While some residents have expressed concerns about the impact on the environment and wildlife, others see it as an opportunity for economic growth and job creation.

Economy

The economy of Mégantic—L'Érable is based primarily on agriculture, manufacturing, and natural resources. Major employers in the district include:

• Industries Lassonde - Based in Rougemont, Industries Lassonde is a large manufacturer of fruit and vegetable juices.
• Soprema - Based in Drummondville, Soprema is a major player in the construction industry, specializing in waterproofing, roofing, and insulation.
• Domtar - With a mill in Windsor, Domtar is a leading producer of paper and related products.

In recent years, the district has experienced both good and bad economic news. In 2018, a new hospital was built in Victoriaville, providing a boost to the local economy and creating new jobs. However, the closure of the Jeffrey Mine in Asbestos had a significant impact on the region, resulting in job losses and economic uncertainty.

Important Landmarks

Mégantic—L'Érable is home to several important landmarks and natural attractions, including:

• Mont Mégantic - With an elevation of 1,105 meters, Mont Mégantic is the highest peak in southern Quebec. It is home to an observatory that is part of the Mont Mégantic National Park.
• Parc National de Frontenac - Located near Thetford Mines, the Parc National de Frontenac is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park features over 200 lakes and is home to a variety of wildlife.
• Domaine Taschereau - This historic estate in Sainte-Anne-du-Sault was once owned by the Taschereau family, one of Quebec's most prominent political dynasties. The estate features a manor house, chapel, and several outbuildings.

Arts and Culture

Mégantic—L'Érable is home to a rich and vibrant arts and culture scene. Major cultural events, community events, and institutions in the district include:

• Festival Blues Pohénégamook - This annual festival in Pohénégamook celebrates blues music and attracts musicians and music lovers from around the region.
• Théâtre des Deux Rives - Located in Saint-Georges, the Théâtre des Deux Rives is a performing arts centre that hosts a wide variety of cultural events throughout the year.
• Salon du Livre de l'Estrie - This annual book fair in Sherbrooke is a major cultural event in the region, attracting authors, publishers, and book lovers from across Quebec.

Electoral Issues

During the 2021 federal election, Mégantic—L'Érable was focused on economic and social issues that were specific to the region. These included:

• Job creation and economic development - With the closure of the Jeffrey Mine and other economic challenges, residents of Mégantic—L'Érable were looking for solutions to help revive the local economy and create new job opportunities.
• Access to healthcare - Healthcare is a major concern for residents of Mégantic—L'Érable, particularly in rural areas where access to doctors and specialists can be more difficult.
• Support for the agriculture industry - Agriculture is a major part of the economy in Mégantic—L'Érable, and many residents were looking for support for farmers and other agricultural businesses in the district.

Community Organizations

Mégantic—L'Érable is home to several important economic and social community organizations, including:

• CLD des Sources - This economic development corporation works to promote the region and support local businesses and entrepreneurs.
• La Ruche - This crowdfunding platform helps to support local projects and initiatives throughout Quebec, including several in Mégantic—L'Érable.
• Les Producteurs de bovins de la région de l'Érable - This farmers' association works to promote and support the beef industry in the region.

Multicultural Groups

Mégantic—L'Érable has a diverse population, with several cultural demographic segments represented in the district. The most significant of these includes:

• Anglophone Canadians - While the district is primarily French-speaking, there is a significant anglophone population in Mégantic—L'Érable.
• Indigenous Canadians - Several First Nations are located in or near Mégantic—L'Érable, including the Abenaki Nation of Odanak and the Wolastoqiyik First Nation.