Briefing on Federal Electoral District of Salaberry—Suroît, Canada

Greetings! As you visit the Federal Electoral District of Salaberry—Suroît, located in the province of Quebec in Canada, there are some important things to know about this area. This electoral district encompasses a diverse range of population centres, including some of the key cities and towns in Quebec. Your visit to this area will definitely be filled with memorable experiences, given the numerous natural and cultural landmarks within the area. As we go through this briefing, you will find information on various aspects of this district, from its economic strengths to its cultural diversity and community organizations.

Population Centres

The Federal Electoral District of Salaberry—Suroît is made up of several population centres, including cities and towns that are both rich in history and modern in their outlook. Some of the major cities and towns in this district include:

• Châteauguay: Known for its beautiful parks, museums, and close proximity to Montreal, Châteauguay is a city that is frequently visited by tourists and is an important regional commercial and industrial center.

• Salaberry-de-Valleyfield: Located at the junction of Lake Saint-François and the St. Lawrence River, Salaberry-de-Valleyfield is a bustling city that is recognized for its industrial and agricultural sectors.

• Beauharnois: Home to major industrial corporations such as Hydro-Québec and Rio Tinto, Beauharnois is a town that is highly regarded for its contributions to Quebec's economy.

• Vaudreuil-Dorion: Situated close to Montreal and the United States border, Vaudreuil-Dorion is a thriving community that is renowned for its cultural richness and stunning natural landscape.

Issues and Events

In the last three years, the Federal Electoral District of Salaberry-Suroît has experienced some notable events that have had an impact on the local community. Some of the noteworthy news events and issues local to the district during this period include:

• Flooding: In the spring of 2019, Salaberry-de-Valleyfield experienced a major flood, which forced many residents to evacuate their homes. This event highlighted the need for improved flood prevention infrastructure in the region.

• COVID-19: As with many other regions, Salaberry-Suroît was impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021. The local authorities took significant steps to protect the community, including issuing stay-at-home orders and offering financial support to local businesses.

• Racial Inequality: Like many other areas in the world, the district has also struggled with the issue of racial inequality. This challenge was highlighted in 2020 when two incidents involving police and Black residents occurred in the region. This has prompted ongoing community discussions on race relations and how to improve them in the area.

Economy

The Federal Electoral District of Salaberry—Suroît has a diverse economy that is primarily focused on agriculture, industry, and tourism. The region is known for its production of crops such as corn and soybeans, as well as its production of aluminum and electric energy. Some of the major employers in the district include:

• Rio Tinto Alcan: This multinational mining company has operated a major aluminum smelter plant in Beauharnois since the early 1990s.

• Hydro-Québec: As the largest electric utility in Quebec, Hydro-Québec plays a crucial role in supplying electricity to communities throughout the region.

In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on the regional economy, leading to significant job losses in industries such as tourism and hospitality. However, the government announced a series of measures to support businesses and individuals affected by the pandemic. For instance, the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) and Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA) were made available to eligible individuals and businesses, respectively.

###Important Landmarks

There are several beautiful and historically significant landmarks within the area. These include:

• Saint-Timothée Islands: Located in the St. Lawrence River, these islands are recognized for their stunning natural beauty and are popular among tourists for their beaches and water sports activities.

• Château Taillefer Lafon: This castle-like mansion in Salaberry-de-Valleyfield was constructed in 1914 and is now a heritage site that offers a glimpse into the rich history of the region.

• Vaudreuil-Dorion Heritage Trail: This trail runs through the scenic woodland area of Vaudreuil-Dorion and is a popular attraction for outdoor enthusiasts.

Arts and Culture

Salaberry—Suroît is also home to a number of cultural institutions and events that reflect the region's history and contemporary cultural identity:

• Musée des Deux-Rives: This museum, located in Salaberry-de-Valleyfield, showcases the history of the region and offers an educational outing for visitors.

• Festivités Bières et Saveurs: This annual festival is held in Châteauguay and attracts visitors from around Quebec who come to sample local beer, food, and entertainment.

• Vaudreuil-Dorion International Film Festival: This is an international film festival that aims to showcase the works of independent filmmakers from around the world.

Electoral Issues

The 2021 federal election in Salaberry—Suroît was largely characterized by discussions on issues such as climate change, COVID-19, and the economy. The Conservative Party proposed measures to support small businesses and promote job creation in the region, while the Liberal Party focused on the importance of continuing to provide economic support for individuals and small businesses affected by the pandemic. The New Democratic Party focused on issues related to affordability and social justice, while the Bloc Québécois emphasized the importance of Quebec’s unique identity.

Community Organizations

Salaberry—Suroît has several notable economic and social community organizations that are dedicated to improving the lives of local residents. These include:

• United Way Salaberry—Suroît: As part of the wider United Way network, this organization works to improve education, income, and health outcomes for local people.

• Châteauguay Valley Career Education Centre: This organization provides job training and education services to residents, helping them to develop the skills needed to succeed in today's job market.

• Centre de femmes L'Autonomie en Soi: This organization aims to empower women in the region through education, personal development, and community engagement.

Multicultural Groups

The Federal Electoral District of Salaberry—Suroît is home to a diverse range of cultural identities, reflecting the broader diversity of Quebec and Canada. The most significant cultural demographic segments in the district include English and French speakers, Indigenous Peoples, and new Canadians. The cultural and linguistic diversity of the region is celebrated through festivals, events, and community organizations, such as Saint-Patrick’s Day Parade in Châteauguay.

Thank you for considering this briefing. We hope that your visit to the Federal Electoral District of Salaberry—Suroît is rewarding and memorable.