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Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean isn't just a region; it's a unique living experience
In addition to being home to several IRIS stores
this region offers the perfect balance between professional opportunities and quality of life
Here's why you should consider settling here with us
A magnificent natural environment to explore
Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean is a paradise for lovers of the great outdoors
Immerse yourself in the region's fascinating history and vibrant culture:
The region is also a treat for the taste buds
thanks to local microbreweries like Microbrasserie du Lac-Saint-Jean and La Chouape
which offer tasty craft beers perfect for after-work moments
When you join an IRIS store in the Saguenay or Lac St-Jean region
you'll enjoy not only a rewarding career in the field of eye care but also an environment where personal and professional life flourish in harmony
Ready to discover the Saguenay and Lac-Saint-Jean regions and build your future with IRIS
Puffy eyes can be caused by a number of factors
Adopting an effective skincare routine can help prevent this..
Le Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean n’est pas qu’une région; c’est une expérience de vie unique
En plus d’être le foyer de plusieurs boutiques IRIS : à Roberval
Did you know that your visual health deserves as much attention as your general health
reminding us of the importance of taking..
Wearing contact lenses offers great freedom
but this freedom comes with a responsibility: careful
Poor cleaning and improper storage can lead to discomfort
the month of May is dedicated to visual health
a perfect opportunity to remind ourselves of the importance of taking good care of our eyes...
Sunglasses are more than just a fashion accessory: they have endured through the ages
both to protect the eyes and to make a style..
Have you been wearing glasses for years and are thinking of making the leap to contact lenses
Many glasses wearers turn to contact lenses for reasons of comfort
It's possible that you're suffering from eye allergies
a common but often underestimated condition
You've probably woken up with puffy eyes before
which can be uncomfortable and sometimes worrying
Cataract surgery is one of the most common and safest procedures in modern medicine
Yet its history dates back several millennia
and bears witness to the incredible evolution of..
sustainability is at the heart of consumer concerns
this translates into a growing demand for eyewear made from eco-friendly materials..
Did you know that IRIS designs and manufactures its own lenses in Canada
we respond precisely to our customers' needs
we're increasingly looking for products that combine aesthetics
Sea2See stands out as a pioneering brand in sustainability and innovation
sunscreen is often the first thing that comes to mind
safeguarding your eyes from ultraviolet (UV) rays is just as crucial—and often overlooked
Omega-3s are essential fatty acids that play a crucial role in our health
They are particularly beneficial for the eyes
is a dynamic metropolis that combines a vibrant urban lifestyle with an impressive proximity to nature
An eye exam is essential to maintaining good eye health and ensuring that your vision is optimal
Here's what you can expect during your eye exam with an optometrist
it has dominated the fashion industry with accessories that combine refined design and exceptional quality
we often focus on what we see directly in front of us
Yet a large part of our visual perception comes..
Eye make-up is much more than a simple aesthetic gesture
False eyelashes have become a beauty staple
their repeated or inappropriate use can have consequences for eye health
those tiny black openings in the center of our eyes
play an essential role in regulating the light that enters our eye
Hormones play an essential role in the proper functioning of our bodies
hormonal fluctuations can have a significant impact on vision...
you know how essential comfort is for a pleasant wearing experience all day long
ACUVUE OASYS® contact lenses with HYDRACLEAR® PLUS technology are designed..
Extended wear contact lenses are an attractive option for those seeking comfort and convenience
Designed to be worn day and night for several days or weeks
Glasses are no longer just a functional accessory but an essential style element
Celebrities have understood this and are significantly influencing trends
Here's an overview of the eyewear styles..
When it comes to choosing a new pair of glasses
it's important to opt for quality frames that combine style
Have you ever noticed the fascinating diversity of eye colours
from crystal blue to emerald green to deep brown
Seasonal allergies can be a nightmare for the eyes
watery eyes and especially swollen eyelids are common symptoms when pollen fills the air
eyes have always been considered windows to the soul
ancestral beliefs and fascinating superstitions
Why did we choose the song “Sunglasses at Night” for our “IRIS
It's part of our commitment to highlighting Canada's cultural heritage
You may have already noticed small black spots
filaments or dots that seem to float in front of your eyes
especially when looking at a clear surface such as..
Many eye conditions are directly linked to aging
automatically adapt to changing light conditions
They darken in direct sunlight and become clear again indoors
cold compresses are a simple and effective remedy
Ray-Ban has established itself as an essential brand in the world of sunglasses and optical frames
Our eyes need specific nutrients to stay healthy
and nuts and seeds are excellent sources of vitamins and essential fatty acids
there are a number of Canadian cosmetics that can help reduce..
Eye cancer is a rare but serious disease that can affect various parts of the eye
Thanks to the generosity of IRIS stores and the IRIS Ophthalmology Clinic
an impressive total of $85,940 was raised during the month of February
an opportunity to highlight the important role optometrists play in preserving and improving our visual health
the Mauricie region is where bountiful nature meets vibrant culture
Our IRIS stores in Shawinigan and Trois-Rivières invite you to discover..
we often find it difficult to see clearly at different distances
which generally occurs after the age of 40
Antioxidants play a key role in protecting our bodies against oxidative stress
which can accelerate cellular aging and promote certain diseases
If you're looking for contact lenses that combine comfort
MyDay® daily disposable contact lenses from CooperVision are an option to consider
Astigmatism is a common visual defect resulting from an irregular curvature of the cornea or crystalline lens
causing blurred or distorted vision at all distances
Colour blindness is an abnormality of colour perception that affects around 8% of men and 0.5% of women worldwide
Although this condition cannot be completely corrected
Our diet plays an essential role in the health of our eyes
Certain nutrients help prevent eye disease
reduce eyestrain and maintain optimal vision
Bas-Saint-Laurent and Gaspésie are jewels in the province of Quebec
rich maritime history and welcoming culture
300 Unifor members working for the Niobec mine in Saguenay go on strike
Members of Unifor Local 666 working at the Niobec mine in the Saguenay region went on strike on May 1
following a deadlock in negotiations to renew their collective agreement
members had voted 99% in favor of a strike mandate
clearly expressing their desire to obtain a fair agreement
particularly regarding wage adjustments to reflect the rising cost of living
The members point out that they have continued their work with rigor and commitment
they are asking for a simple catch-up to preserve their purchasing power and protect the gains they have negotiated over the years
"We're not questioning the company's competitiveness or working conditions
But when inflation is eating away a little more of a family's income every week
but a strike is the last resort to make this reality heard"
Unifor would like to see a rapid resumption of discussions to reach a respectful and balanced agreement
Rio Tinto’s Arvida aluminum smelter in the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region on Feb
Crevier’s district encompasses Rio Tinto’s sprawling
It is one of four such facilities – in addition to one refinery – in the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region
which produces a third of all Canadian aluminum thanks to abundant
In Saguenay, U.S. President Donald Trump’s plan to impose 25-per-cent tariffs on all steel and aluminum imports
I take almost twice the time just talking with my people,” Mr
Mexico and the European Union condemned U.S
President Donald Trump's decision to impose tariffs on all steel and aluminum imports next month
a move that has fanned fears of a trade war
about 380 kilometres northeast of Montreal
Heavy-equipment manufacturers line its wide boulevards
where men in coveralls drive salt-stained pickup trucks to work
Snowmobile riders are more common than pedestrians in the harsh February wind
worked as a welder for the Arvida smelter before becoming a union leader
“We fought for a long time to say: ‘Listen
but we transform very little,’ ” thus giving up many valuable jobs to U.S.-based companies
In a statement earlier this month
the Aluminium Association of Canada said that 9,500 aluminum workers in the country – including 7,600 in Quebec – “produce the metal that is processed
and everyday products by more than 500,000 well-paid American manufacturing workers.”
This integrated market is now under threat
In a U.S. Tariff Exposure Index release Tuesday
the Canadian Chamber of Commerce identified the remote Quebec municipality as the seventh most vulnerable in the country based on its dependence on southbound aluminum exports
the president of the Aluminium Association
said Quebec alone furnished 65 per cent of the U.S.’s aluminum last year
Simard said no jobs are on the line because of the latest tariff threats
“The American government just decided to pay 25 per cent more” with tariffs on aluminum imports from all over the world
Saguenay Mayor Julie Dufour declined to be interviewed for this story
she said the city brought together “the region’s key stakeholders” to “co-ordinate efforts to support our regional industry.”
“We are closely monitoring the situation and remain proactive in implementing
in collaboration with other levels of government
the means required to protect our local entrepreneurs and all workers who could be affected by these measures,” she added
President Donald Trump substantially raised tariffs on steel and aluminum imports on Monday to a flat 25% "without exceptions or exemptions" in a move to aid the struggling industries but which increases the risk of a multi-front trade war
which operates one refinery and four smelters in the region
interim president of the Unifor-affiliated Arvida aluminum workers’ union
“There is a bit of concern,” he said in an interview
said he is not worried about his region’s aluminum producers because the U.S.
but it is completely unrealistic to think that there will be the construction of aluminum smelters in the United States” within the President’s second mandate
Simard is more concerned about businesses spread across the province that use rolled aluminum
from microbreweries to manufacturers of water heaters
Those will feel the weight of tariffs when bringing aluminum sheets back from the U.S.
as Quebec does not have the facilities to transform it at home
“We should have had a rolling mill in Quebec a while ago,” Mr
All 13 Canadian premiers are in Washington
lobbyists and business groups trying to make the case against tariffs
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MontrealNewsQuebec's Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean haunted by looming U.S. tariffs on aluminum, lumberBy The Canadian PressPublished: March 10, 2025 at 1:42PM EDT
Twitter feed ©2025 BellMedia All Rights Reserved
thrives at the meeting point of the Saguenay and St
it’s also an internationally recognized hotspot for whales
While visitors take selfies before its towering cliffs
and other deep-sea delicacies brought to the surface by the confluence’s cold water upwelling
Belugas are year-round residents of the Saguenay
This unmistakable off-white whale reaches lengths of three to five meters
these social creatures communicate vocally within pods
curious nature leads to acrobatic displays as they breach the water's surface
allowing them to nod or turn their heads when hunting and feeding
DON'T MISS: Explore more of what this beautiful country has to offer on our Experiencing Canada hub page!
the harbour porpoise is the smallest whale in the park
These fussy eaters dine on unsuspecting schools of fish
swooping in to catch one and spin it around so they can swallow it head-first without getting scales stuck in their throat
They communicate ultrasonically at a pitch larger predators can’t hear
resulting in fewer harbour porpoises becoming a snack
Minke whales have a curved dorsal fin on the hind third of their bodies and a white band on each flipper
where they raise their heads to spot feeding seabirds
are identifiable by a prominent hooked dorsal fin near their tail
They are recognized for their distinctive v-shaped heads and unusual colour pattern
growing up to twenty-six meters long and weighing at least 45,000 kilograms
by pulling water into their mouths containing long
Humpbacks visit the park during the busy summer tourist season
these whales breach dramatically from the water
flailing their long pectoral fins and slapping their tails
they hunt in groups and feast on small fish
The blue whale is the largest animal on Earth
reaching over thirty meters and tipping the scales at 200 tons – equivalent to thirty elephants
They visit the marine park sporadically to gorge on krill and small crustaceans
consuming more than four tons of food daily
they filter their food through baleen plates
while their massive tongues weigh as much as an elephant
CLICK HERE to return to the Experiencing Canada main page for more videos and articles.
CBC LiteSectionsNews • Canada • MontrealRivers under watch, evacuation notice issued in Saguenay, Que., regionCBC News | Posted: May 1, 2025 5:30 PM | Last Updated: May 1
50 residents in Saint-Thomas-Didyme asked to leave as a precautionary measure
Caption: The municipality of Saint-Thomas-Didyme has issued an evacuation advisory, asking residents to leave their homes due to flooding risks from the Rivière des Aulnaies. (Claude Desbiens/Radio-Canada)
except for people who wished to leave the area.Mayor Sylvie Coulombe told Radio-Canada that the evacuation is a precautionary measure
adding that residents in the area had been contacted
The municipality is advising residents to contact town hall to find out what services are available.Rivers in the region under watch The Petite rivière Péribonka and the Chicoutimi River are under surveillance.In Saint-Félicien
the Rivière aux Saumons was in a state of minor flood at around 7:30 a.m
according to Quebec Public Security's flood monitoring data
Residents who live near this waterway are advised to be vigilant
But the situation isn't worrisome for the Saint-Félicien Wildlife Zoo
located near the river."This is something that happens every year
We settled around an island so it's certain that [with] the river
We are monitoring it right now," said David Pagé
the biologist and conservation director of the zoo.As a precautionary measure
animals were evacuated from the small farm located closest to the river.More Stories Like ThisThe related links below are generated automatically based on the story you’ve just read
WatchCTV National News: What concerns voters in Saguenay, QuebecSaguenay, Quebec is the heart of North American aluminum production, hit hard by Donald Trump's trade war. Genvieve Beachemin has their story.
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre visited Quebec’s Saguenay region Thursday to promote the revival of a $14-billion liquefied natural gas project
pledging to create “shovel-ready zones” for resource projects across the country
The province refused to authorize GNL Québec Inc.’s proposed liquefaction facility and export terminal in 2021
with both governments citing environmental and other concerns
The project would have involved transporting natural gas
650-kilometre pipeline would be needed to connect the network to the proposed plant
The Quebec government said last month that it may be open to reviving the project as a way of diversifying Canada’s export markets in light of U.S
President Donald Trump’s tariffs on Canadian imports
The federal election campaign is not expected to officially start until Sunday, but Mr. Poilievre is touring the country this week and holding campaign-style events. He made a similar announcement Wednesday during a stop in Sudbury
where he pledged to speed up permitting for mining projects in Northern Ontario’s Ring of Fire region
The Ring of Fire project has faced several delays related to environmental approvals and consultations with Indigenous communities
While some First Nations are open to development in the area
The Quebec government had rejected the LNG project on the grounds that it did not have social acceptability in the province
Billionaire investor Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway had been interested in investing $4-billion in the project but backed away in 2020
citing Canada’s “current political context.”
responded to the rejection by initiating a NAFTA claim against the Canadian government
seeking to recoup US$120-million in sunk costs and another US$20-billion in lost profits
Trump’s policies have altered what Quebeckers view as acceptable
“The status quo does not have social acceptability,” Mr
He said Northern Quebec can liquefy natural gas with fewer emissions because of its hydroelectric resources and colder climate
“I am convinced that we can secure social acceptability,” he said
A Conservative government would take the steps to have the project preapproved
“so that we can ship Western Canadian LNG through a pipeline to this region
using the great workers of the Saguenay to get it done.”
The Montreal Economic Institute think tank issued a report Thursday that estimates the 10.5-million-tonne-a-year project would have diverted nearly 19.4 per cent of Canadian gas exports away from the United States to overseas markets had it been operating in 2024
Freestone International LLC and Breyer Capital LLC
did not immediately respond to queries about whether they would consider reviving the project
Poilievre said he would create “Canada shovel-ready zones” throughout the country to prepermit projects such as power stations
He said this can be done with “rigorous” environmental studies
while working with other levels of government and consulting First Nations
“The goal will be to prepublish permits online so that everybody knows
investors don’t have to fear that they’re going to waste so much money on lawyers and fees all to get to nothing,” he said
Prime Minister Mark Carney pledged during the recent Liberal Party leadership race that he would expand and modernize Canada’s energy infrastructure to diversify trade
His campaign mentioned both clean energy and fossil fuels
but he did not specify the level of support for each sector
The Carney leadership campaign platform did include a pledge to designate “critical infrastructure corridors,” which sounds similar to Mr
Poilievre’s Thursday pledge of “shovel-ready zones.”
Carney’s infrastructure corridors pledge was described as a plan to “allow for rapid designation of corridors preapproved for multiuse national priority projects.”
In a March 14 news release announcing his new cabinet
Carney said the team would work to defend Canada’s sovereignty in the face of unjustified trade actions by the United States
“make Canada an energy superpower in both conventional and clean energy” and “create new trade corridors with reliable partners.”
a spokesperson for Energy and Natural Resources Minister Jonathan Wilkinson
saying the province rejected the project “based on potentially catastrophic environmental consequences
lack of social license and opposition of local Indigenous groups.”
Svonkin described the announcement as “a desperate attempt to bend to his oil and gas CEO friends and donors.”
His coverage focuses on economics and government spending
but he also writes about a wide range of issues on Parliament Hill
He first joined the Parliamentary Press Gallery in 2000 as a reporter with The Hill Times
before working at the National Post and the Canwest News Service
He joined the Globe’s Ottawa bureau in 2005
Jeffrey is a veteran journalist who has reported on many topics from numerous locales over three decades
and mergers and acquisitions as both a reporter and a columnist
Piping is seen on the top of a receiving platform which will be connected to the Coastal GasLink natural gas pipeline terminus at the LNG Canada export terminal under construction
Parks Canada and the Société des établissements de plein air du Québec
including local and Indigenous communities
to provide a safer and quieter environment for the St
and to protect and ensure the sustainable use of the marine environment
Vessel traffic management measures developed jointly with users
risks of collision between boats and whales
This collective work is protecting the critical habitat of the St
These efforts are essential in reestablishing the Beluga population
and for the protection of the feeding grounds of migratory whales
Two Belugas explore the rich waters of the Saguenay–St
Lawrence Marine Park was established in 1998 to safeguard the St
Lawrence Estuary population of the Beluga Whale
Located at the confluence of the Saguenay Fjord and the St
the marine park is world renowned for marine mammal observation
The area’s nutrient-rich waters support a high abundance of prey species
making it the heart of the Belugas’ critical habitat
as well as an important feeding ground for migratory whales
The major sea lane linking the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean cuts through this high biodiversity habitat
combined with the presence of a commercial whale-watching industry and pleasure crafts
These marine activities increase underwater noise pollution and the risks of collisions between vessels and whales
and disturb vital whale activities such as feeding
Baie Sainte-Marguerite in the Saguenay Fjord has been closed to navigation between June 21 and September 21
This closure allows female Belugas to take advantage of the quieter waters to feed
Protecting the place where these vital activities take place is crucial in improving the health of the Beluga population
awareness patrols on the water and at boat launching sites
and the development of new educational tools
compliance with this closure has reached 98%
The closure regulations also include a new speed reduction zone at the mouth of the Saguenay Fjord
the busiest area of the marine park and the noisiest part of the Beluga’s habitat
Speed reduction is being tracked through an innovative approach that monitors vessel speeds based on Automatic Identification System (AIS) data
receives regular reports on their navigation speeds generated from AIS data
allowing them to improve their performance
Data shows that since the implementation of this feedback-based approach in 2021
compliance with the speed limit at the mouth of the river has risen from 40% to over 94%
reducing the risk and severity of collisions
in collaboration with whale watching operators
the Upper Estuary sector of the marine park
which extends from Baie-Sainte-Catherine to Gros cap à l’Aigle in the Charlevoix region
This part of the estuary is used intensively by female Belugas and their calves
With the addition of this conservation area
44% of the marine park is now closed to commercial whale-watching excursions
increasing the protection of 21% of the Beluga’s critical habitat
100% of whale-watching companies complied with the measure by not navigating in this zone
compliance with a voluntary speed reduction measure
which targets merchant ships and international cruise lines
work began on supplementary measures to reduce collision risks with other types of vessels
in order to expand the quiet zones around the whales
Watch how the seasonal closure of Baie Sainte-Marguerite has benefited Belugas
A dark green illustrated map of Quebec shows an orange place marker over a light green shape of Saguenay–St
The map zooms in to focus on Sainte-Marguerite Bay and the Saguenay River
The date “2016” is indicated in the top left corner
A dense cluster of green lines and blue dots appear throughout the Saguenay River
Lawrence Beluga along with a label at the bottom indicates that this data represents “beluga and boat distribution pre-area closure”
The blue dots are clustered where Sainte-Marguerite Bay meets the Saguenay River
The green lines are spread widely throughout the Saguenay River
A legend in the top right corner reveals that each dot represents a “Beluga group sighting” and each green line represents a “boat passage”
An asterisk appears at the bottom with text that reads “Boat passages have been reduced to 10%
The data is showing that the boat passages are forcing Beluga groups to stay concentrated in a small area
A red outline appears where Saine-Marguerite Bay meets the Saguenay River
This is the same area where the beluga group sightings are concentrated
The red outline indicates an area closure that is off-limits to boat passages
Boat passages are now more concentrated at the side of the Saguenay River opposite to Sainte-Marguerite Bay
The blue dots representing Beluga group sightings are now more spread across the Saguenay River
See how Parks Canada is studying critical Beluga habitat in the Saguenay–St
so it's perfect for operations in the upper estuary
Lawrence Marine Park is in the heart of critical habitat for at-risk St
[Text] Parks Canada and Sépaq work closely with several partners and coastal communities to protect the belugas
[Title] Studying Habitats to Better Protect Belugas
the work will be carried out in a really particular sector
[Text] The upper estuary is a critical habitat for St
Females use it as a nursery to birth and care for their young
Parks Canada scientists and their partners study things like food availability
and the presence of aquatic invasive species
we’ll wait here in this enchanting environment
we just joined the Alliance in the middle of the river
[Texte] The aquatic invasive species project is conducted in collaboration with Fisheries and Oceans Canada
physicochemical properties of the water where the net was sent
Aquatic invasive species are species that are not native to the
To measure the presence of these aquatic invasive species
[Text] Monitoring indicators like aquatic invasive species helps us track changes to beluga habitat so we can implement measures to minimize their impacts
Eliza will rinse well to make sure that everything flows into the bucket
So from this water sample that was collected
DNA particles that can come from secretions
no aquatic invasive species have been found
[Text] Climate change and an increase in maritime transport create favorable conditions for aquatic invasive species to establish
meaning it’s essential to continue this monitoring
[Text] The knowledge gained through this research and ecological monitoring since the creation of the marine park has made it possible to adapt protection measures for belugas
[Text] See how Parks Canada protects endangered whales: parks.canada.ca/whales
The Honourable Steven Guilbeault Minister of Canadian Culture and Identity, Parks Canada, and Quebec Lieutenant
Canada’s Supreme Court last week allowed nine Quebec insurers to move forward in three subrogation cases regarding the Saguenay flood
Canada’s Supreme Court last week allowed nine Quebec insurers to proceed in three subrogation cases against the Quebec government related to the 1996 Saguenay floods—even though the actions were first launched more than 28 years ago
Quebec’s Superior Court dismissed the insurers’ legal actions in 2022
deeming the insurers’ failure to move forward with the files for such a long period as “unreasonable and excessive.”
Quebec’s Court of Appeal overturned this ruling in June 2024
saying the laws cited by the lower court did not apply at the time
in part because the parties did not agree on how to proceed with the cases
The Appeal Court also gave weight to the complexity of the cases and found the Quebec government equally complicit in the long delay
“…It was necessary to examine all the circumstances of the [insurers’] Abitibi-Price and Cascades [subrogation] cases to determine whether the preliminary dismissal of the applications in those cases was an appropriate remedy
particularly in view of the contribution that the [Quebec government parties] appear to have made to the procrastination that they denounced in extremis
more than a decade after they had been able to raise the issue of the time bar
“This examination left no other choice but to agree with the [insurers]
which entails the dismissal of the [Quebec government’s] motion to dismiss the [insurers’] appeal
Rigorous management at first instance should allow these proceedings
to be brought to an end within a reasonable time.”
more than eight feet of water flooded parts of Chicoutimi and La Baie in Quebec
killing 10 people and levelling an entire neighbourhood
completely destroying 488 homes and damaging another 1,230
insured damages estimates were in the $1.5-billion range
and Westport — all collectively paid more than $100 million in commercial claims related to the flooding in Saguenay
“After compensating the insured companies, the insurers each brought, between 1997 and 1999, an action in subrogation against the applicants — the Attorney General of Quebec (AGQ) and the Société québécoise des infrastructures (SQI),” the Supreme Court summarizes in its decision Mar
during which [Quebec’s] Code of Civil Procedure underwent two significant reforms
the AGQ and the SQI filed an application to have the presumed discontinuance of the insurers’ lawsuits confirmed
In siding with the Quebec government, the Superior Court blasted the delay in its decision
“A review of the delays incurred clearly shows that they are indefensible in light of the evidence submitted,” the lower court judge ruled in 2022
“More than 20 years have passed without the mere production of a defence being required…
“The court has no doubt that a great deal of work may have been done in discussions
but nothing justifies or explains the absence of useful procedures over such a long period
This delay is manifestly unreasonable and excessive
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The insurers successfully appealed the decision at the Appeal Court
which included ongoing class action litigation
as well as the highly complex nature of the research and evidence the insurers were required to do
Such research included several hydraulic dam studies
retaining geological experts on the failure of a pumping station during the flood
a study of the intermediate contributions of the Rivière-aux-Sables and the Chicoutimi Rivers to the water overflow
a series of numerous alternative simulations of the management of the July 1996 flood
and obtaining meteorological opinions about the extent of the rainfall
The Appeal Court determined the law governing the situation in 2016 required the two sides to “agree to proceed according to the new rules” in place at the time
“a certain confusion appears to have reigned in the minds of all the parties as to what should guide them in the conduct of the proceedings,” the Appeal Court stated
they were already uncertain about their respective obligations regarding the conduct of the proceedings in progress
“The unsuccessful efforts made by some of the [insurers’] lawyers with the [Quebec government] respondents between 2004 and 2008 to establish a timetable
confirm that the parties never managed to ‘agree to proceed according to the new rules.’”
even though the laws in place allowed the Quebec government to move ahead and try to dismiss the proceedings for delay as early as 2003
“This immediately raises the question of what their justification could be for waiting so long – approximately 33 months in the case of Abitibi-Price and Cascades [legal action]
approximately 64 months in the case of [the] Alcan [legal action] – before reacting,” the Appeal Court found
“…In the very particular circumstances of the case
it is difficult to resist the conclusion that the initiative taken by the [Quebec government] in May 2019
a way of unilaterally and without trial liquidating a dispute that had been in preparation for a long time in full view of all those concerned.”
The Appeal court thus allowed the insurers’ motion
moving the matter back to the Quebec Superior Court
Feature image courtesy of iStock.com/Zffoto
David has twice served as Canadian Underwriter’s senior editor
News
Thanks to good risk management and decent investment returns
insurers' financial results last year were very similar to those of 2023
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Canada’s no hotbed for political extremism
but a new study finds businesses increasingly fear political risks and violence
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affecting more than 400,000 Hydro One customers
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Research at McGill University has brought promising developments in gene therapy targeting a rare hereditary disease present in Quebec
Initially identified in the Charlevoix and Saguenay regions in 2000
Autosomal Recessive Spastic Ataxia of Charlevoix-Saguenay (ARSACS) significantly affects motor control and co-ordination
This condition first appears in children ages two to five and progresses slowly
affecting only one in 1,500 people in the region and with roughly 320 cases in Quebec
ARSACS is increasingly recognized globally as the second most common form of ataxia
an Associate Professor in the Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education at McGill University
Interested in diseases affecting nerves and mobility, Gentil and his research group aim to better understand ARSACS, driven by its impact in Quebec. Their research has been supported for several years by the Ataxia Charlevoix-Saguenay Foundation and has led to promising developments in gene therapy
“ARSACS is caused by a single gene called SACS,” said Gentil
“We’ve developed a gene therapy that targets the root cause of the disease and aims to restore the affected gene’s function.”
the goal is to treat or prevent diseases by introducing new or modified genes into a patient’s cells
which are delivered through modified viruses
called “vectors.” The use of vectors ensures that the genetic instructions reach the target cells safely
efficiently and in a controlled way to minimize side effects
“The challenge with ARSACS is that the affected gene is too large to fit into the vector we use,” explained Gentil
we created a ‘mini gene’ (which we call ‘mini-SACS’) by finding and using only the essential parts of the gene needed to fight the disease.” This method is similar to the ones used for other genetic disorders
“Early studies have shown that we can delay the onset of several symptoms of ARSACS in animal models,” said Gentil
“These results encourage us to continue testing to see how effective the therapy can be.”
Gentil said his aim is to develop and bring this technology to market. To do this, he sought the support of NeuroSphere
the McGill platform dedicated to innovation and partnership in neuroscience and neuroinformatics research
In addition to receiving one of NeuroSphere’s Ignite Grants
Gentil and his team received guidance from NeuroSphere in designing experiments that meet U.S
Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requirements to ensure that the team had the necessary data for regulatory approval
to speed up the regulatory approval process
“The strategic guidance offered by NeuroSphere has been invaluable in transitioning our research from the lab to clinical applications,” said Gentil
“They helped us navigate aspects of intellectual property
explore partnerships with pharmaceutical companies and even potentially start a company.”
NeuroSphere recently announced a strategic partnership with the Ataxia Charlevoix-Saguenay Foundation
with each group committing $200,000 to support Gentil’s research
Associate Director of Business Development at NeuroSphere
said that Gentil’s project stands out for its potential to make a strong impact in its field
“While working with Gentil’s team in the earlier stages of their research
we were impressed with their dedication and meticulous approach
Their work not only pushes the boundaries of what is possible in gene therapy for ARSACS
but also exemplifies the core mission of NeuroSphere: to drive forward transformative medical breakthroughs,” said Crampton
we’re investing in a future where innovative research translates into real-world clinical applications
offering hope and improved outcomes for patients.”
Learn more about Ataxia Charlevoix-Saguenay:
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Ingram School of Nursing
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Today, the British Columbia Humanist Association (BCHA) is marking the tenth anniversary of the Supreme Court of Canada’s historic MLQ v Saguenay decision with the release of its latest report, Prayer Free BC
This report declares British Columbia to be free of prayer in regular municipal council meetings
This landmark achievement follows years of dedicated research and advocacy by the BCHA through its Saguenay Project
reveals that after a thorough review of the agendas and minutes of every municipal council in BC
no instances of prayer were found in regular council meetings across three years (2022
This victory builds upon the BCHA’s previous successes in reducing the inclusion of unconstitutional prayer in inaugural council meetings
Following the identification of seven BC municipalities that included prayer in their 2022 inaugural meetings
the BCHA and its legal counsel engaged in direct correspondence with these municipalities
all seven municipalities provided acknowledgements of wrongdoing and/or commitments to discontinue the practice in future inaugural meetings
Prayer Free BC was co-authored by Dr Teale Phelps Bondaroff
“We’re releasing this report on the tenth anniversary of the Saguenay decision to underscore the profound impact of that ruling and the importance of our ongoing work,” stated Ian Bushfield
“This report confirms the power of secular advocacy
We have worked tirelessly for years to ensure that everyone can participate in their local democracy without fear of religious exclusion
Declaring BC municipalities ‘prayer free’ is a historic moment and a testament to our commitment to promoting the duty of religious neutrality.”
While BC has achieved this significant milestone
the report highlights that prayer continues to be included in some municipal council meetings in other provinces
“While we celebrate this achievement in British Columbia
particularly on this significant anniversary
our work is not finished,” emphasized Dr Teale Phelps Bondaroff
“The Saguenay Project continues to uncover violations of religious neutrality across the country
our report identifies emerging issues such as religious displays on public property
and problematic proclamation requests that require ongoing attention to ensure the full realization of a truly secular and inclusive public sphere.”
The report also notes the increasing prevalence of territorial acknowledgements in BC municipal council meetings
a practice the BCHA welcomes as a symbolic step towards reconciliation
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Canada’s winning streak on home soil was snapped last week as the fall ITF swing through the Great White North moved east to Quebec for the Challenger Banque Nationale de Saguenay
Petra Marcinko of Croatia won the singles title while the American duo of Dalayna Hewitt and Anna Rogers were victorious in doubles at the W75 event
winning her first nine sets in a row to reach the final and take the lead in the title match against fourth seed Anouk Koevermans before the Dutchwoman won the second set to send the final to a decider
Marcinko edged it out in a tiebreak to be crowned champion with a 6-3
did not drop a set in three matches on their way to the title
They received a walkover in the semifinals
The Americans bested the top-seeded all-Belgian team of Magali Kempen and Lara Salden 6-1
The closest the host nation came to lifting a trophy was in doubles, where Kayla Cross, who had won the doubles in both Edmonton and Calgary
and Ariana Arseneault reached the semifinals but withdrew prior to their clash with the Americans
Read also: Qinwen Zheng and the Emergence of Chinese Tennis
all four losing quarter-finalists were Canadian
and Cross all reached the last eight but were all defeated on the same day
with Fung falling to the eventual champion Marcinko
Lagaev, Canada’s highest-ranked junior, reached her first quarter-final in a professional tournament. The 16-year-old defeated fellow youngster Emma Dong in a battle of the top two Canadian juniors in the ITF rankings and then upset No
3 seed Gabriela Knutson in three sets before falling to the seventh seed Viktoria Hruncakova in the last eight in three sets
Katherine Sebov of Toronto was the defending champion but lost in the second round to Marcinko
The next stop on the fall Canadian swing will be at Sobeys Stadium in Toronto for the W75 Tevlin Challenger
Markham hosted the first Canadian ITF Wheelchair event of 2025 earlier in April
Following a strong 2024 season on the ITF Women’s World Tennis Tour
Carson Branstine has picked up where she left..
Team Canada may have been edged out in the Billie Jean King Cup qualifiers by Japan
you teeter across a suspension bridge after climbing a 280-metre rock face on the Baie Éternité via ferrata
which overlooks Quebec’s vast Saguenay Fjord
you gasp in delight as you spot dozens of surfacing belugas and inquisitive grey seals on a Croisières AML boat tour out of Tadoussac
a former fur trading post founded in 1599 at the mouth of the St
The diverse thrills and flavours of the protected Saguenay-St
less than a three-hour drive northeast of Quebec City
Begin your explorations at the Musée du Fjord in La Baie
spaceship-style presentation reminiscent of Tron or Alien delivers vivid images of the 900-million-year-old Saguenay Fjord
Handle starfish and sea urchins in a touch pool
and learn about settler history from blueberry farming to prodigious 19th-century birth rates
Dining and overnighting at the comfortable Auberge des 21 merge traditional Quebec hospitality with contemporary flair
and Indigenous-inspired smoked salmon with maple sauce pair well with a 2022 Château des Charmes Sauvignon Blanc
If spending three hours on the aforementioned via ferrata—while relentlessly humming the Indiana Jones theme—isn’t enough outdoor adventure for you
taking an e-bike tour with Vélo Fjord in nearby L’Anse-Saint-Jean is a relaxing add-on
Pedal riverside at speeds of up to 32 kilometres an hour amid maple and birch trees
Pause to admire the Pont du Faubourg: the interior of the covered bridge built in 1929 features paintings of apple orchards and snow-covered houses by local artists
Craft beer fans love refuelling at La Chasse-Pinte Bistro
Whimsical brews refreshingly infused with herbs are on tap
Venison burgers and rich chocolate cake with berries also bring mouthwatering appeal
Understandably, whales are the primary draw for most visitors to the 105-kilometre-long Saguenay Fjord. And the St. Lawrence belugas, with due respect to their minke, fin, and blue whale counterparts, are hyperpopular. However, their population has fluctuated wildly, as you discover on a misty Saguenay Aventures tour aboard the 48-capacity covered Chevelure de Bérénice boat
It was a sad consequence of early 20th-century hunting and more recent commercial and agricultural pollution
Lawrence attracts roughly 1,500 to 2,200 of the white whales
where picturesque yellow and green houses overlook the bay alongside the red-roofed Hôtel Tadoussac
Steps away is the Marine Mammal Interpretation Centre
a spectacular light-and-sound show in an atrium with Canada’s largest collection of whale skeletons
You can also take a short drive to the immense Tadoussac sand dunes in hopes of sunset whale sightings
Tackling the steep slopes may evoke thoughts of The Princess Bride
be it the Cliffs of Insanity or Westley and Buttercup’s famous hillside tumble
whether enjoying Microbrasserie Tadoussac’s pub fare with haskap berry pale ale or indulging in cod filet with saffron sauce and mango cheesecake at the Hôtel Tadoussac’s Coverdale Room
Lawrence’s north shore has multiple Parks Canada marine interpretation centres
A lighthouse built in 1958 rises above rose bushes
and a trail fringed by yellow birches leads to a sheltered lookout point
It’s a peaceful place to soak up the sound of lapping waves
although less peaceful minke whales sometimes manoeuvre their prey up against the rocks here and then attack from below
The southbound ferry crossing from Les Escoumins to Trois-Pistoles offers more cetacean viewing
is easily visible and audible on this wide-open
a veggie-laden tofu poke bowl with tahini sauce at Gourmandises Oreka provides a tasty prelude to visiting Putep ’t-awt
This land-based beluga observation centre is perched on Gros-Cacouna Mountain
Managed by the Wolastoqiyik Wahsipekuk First Nation
the site conveys ancient knowledge about Indigenous words and canoe-making practices with interpretive panels along a two-kilometre trail
That ascends to an ultramodern viewing platform with a splendid panorama of the St
After heightening your appreciation for the Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park, it is time to dive deeper into the region’s culinary bounty
Why not pair a revitalizing Nordic spa experience that includes saunas and cold plunges at Rivière-du-Loup’s slick Hôtel Universel with beef tataki and pasta carbonara at the on-site Boréal steakhouse
whose name graces a classic 1973 historical movie starring Geneviève Bujold
Enjoy handcrafted salted caramel chocolates at La Fée Gourmande
nibble on wild sturgeon caviar or mushroom arancini at Côté Est
or sip raspberry and rhubarb wine or berry liqueur at Vignoble Amouraska
The French pun in the stylish fruit winery’s name is appropriate
as you may find yourself falling in love with this special
Martin Picard’s “Au Pied de Cochon Sugar Shack”
2024 /CNW/ - The port authorities of Montreal
Quebec City and Trois-Rivières are pleased to announce the broadening of their cooperation agreement
the port authorities of Saguenay and Sept-Îles are uniting in the cooperation dynamics through the signing a new
Integrating the ports of Saguenay and Sept-Îles marks a decisive move to create an extended marine corridor along the Saguenay and St
consolidating their shared goal of increasing performance
This partnership highlights the vital role that ports play to keep international and interprovincial trade competitive
The partners in this agreement will meet regularly to align their strategies and optimize operations
Areas of focus will include environmental innovation
as well as communications and community relations
confirms the ports' commitment to work together for the economic benefit of their regions
"This expanded agreement furthers our efforts to create a more competitive and integrated marine corridor
We are thrilled to welcome Saguenay and Sept-Îles
reinforcing our shared vision of a robust and proactive port network," said Julie Gascon
respectively President and CEO of the port authorities of Montreal
Lawrence Marine Corridor are essential to the smooth functioning of the North American economy and supply chains
Increased cooperation and exchanges between our port authorities will enhance current practices
particularly in terms of sustainable development
drive innovation and make shipping even more efficient." — Carl Laberge
President and CEO of the Port of Saguenay and Pierre D. Gagnon
President and CEO of the Port of Sept-Îles
Operated by the Montreal Port Authority (MPA)
the Port of Montreal is the largest container port in Eastern Canada and a diversified transshipment centre that handles all types of goods: containerized and non-containerized cargo
it is a destination port served by the largest shipping lines in the world
It is also an intermodal hub with a service offering that is unique in North America
featuring its own rail network directly dockside connected to Canada's two national rail networks
The MPA also operates a Cruise Terminal and a Port Centre
social and environmental components into its corporate initiatives
This commitment is governed by a sustainable development policy whose guiding principles focus on involvement
Port activity in Canada supports some 590,000 jobs and generates $93.5 billion in economic activity
the Port of Québec is strategically located to serve the industrial and agricultural heartland of North America
A Canadian hub for international trade in both imports and exports
it is the only port in Quebec to offer a water depth of fifteen meters at low tide along with a complete intermodal infrastructure
The port's facilities generate 12,000 jobs and economic spin-offs in the order of $2 billion a year
the Port of Québec aims to be recognized by citizens for its responsible management of the territory
respect for the environment and protection of biodiversity
while positioning itself as a world leader in the realization of sustainable supply chains at the service of a more resilient economy
As part of the 17 Canadian Port Authorities and active since 1882
the Port of Trois-Rivières provides a wide range of facilities and services to the marine industry
national and international economic development for major industrial sectors such as the aluminum industry
The respect of the highest environmental standards and harmony with the community are essential for the Port of Trois-Rivières
the Port of Trois-Rivières welcomes some 60,000 trucks
11,000 railcars and 270 merchant and cruise ships from some 100 ports in over 40 countries around the world
It handles 4.2 million metric tons of traffic
is responsible for nearly $220 million in economic spin-offs
A strategic intermodal hub and one of Canada's 17 port authorities
the Port of Saguenay is a year-round deepwater port with direct access to the North American rail and highway networks
It is renowned for its operational efficiency and high capacity for receiving and shipping dry and liquid bulk goods
The Port of Saguenay is one of Eastern Canada's most important shipping terminals for forest biomass to Europe
It is also responsible for international cruise ship operations in Saguenay
the largest port of call on the Saguenay-St
Lawrence axis in terms of ships and passengers received each year
The Port of Saguenay boasts one of the largest industrial port sites in Canada
with nearly 12 square kilometers of land dedicated to large-scale industry adjacent to its marine terminal
developed with a vision focused on the responsible and sustainable growth of its activities
the Port of Sept-Îles is North America's largest ore-handling port
with a projected volume for 2024 of more than 40 million metric tons
It is also recognized as the largest primary aluminum port terminal in the Americas in terms of operational volume
The facilities at the Port of Sept-Îles play a vital and strategic role in the economy of Eastern Canada
The Port is also deeply committed to sustainable development and has pioneered the first environmental observatory on the St
Lawrence to monitor the marine ecosystem as well as a research chair with Université Laval to study coastal ecosystems and port operations
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A fuel leak at the Saguenay-Bagotville Airport on January 27 forced officials to evacuate the terminal and cancel flights
The Saguenay fire department and firefighters from neighbouring CFB Bagotville were dispatched to the airport after an alert about aircraft fuel spilling from a tank
says the leaking tank can hold 18,000 litres of fuel
Dominic Arsenault says firefighters are currently recovering the spilled fuel using absorbent materials
and environmental teams will also be on site to help with the cleanup
The main airport building and all buildings within an 800-metre radius have been evacuated but no injuries were reported
A Sunwing flight took off as scheduled Monday morning
but other flights scheduled today were cancelled or postponed
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Jan
News from © Canadian Press Enterprises Inc., 2025
Hydro-Québec has announced partnerships with two Indigenous communities and a regional government in the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region that will open the door to a C$9-billion wind farm
a first major step in the mammoth utility’s plan to triple its wind power capacity by 2035 and wean the province off fossil fuels
The deal covers a 5,000-square-kilometre area known as the Chamouchouane zone. “The utility said the zone has the potential to host up to 3,000 megawatts of wind power capacity and several wind farms, which would make it one of the biggest wind power sites in North America,” the Globe and Mail reports
we will embark on a common and collaborative process that will have benefits for all of Quebec,” CEO Michael Sabia said in the statement
we’ll lay the foundations for well-planned and coordinated wind development.”
The Chamouchouane development is part of a development strategy that aims to deploy 10,000 megawatts of installed wind power capacity by 2035
The project is expected to be the first of a handful of other mega-sized wind farms in the province
with la Haute-Côte-Nord and the Baie-James regions noted as possible locations for future deployments
most wind installations in Quebec have been small- to medium-sized and developed by the private sector
Sabia said deploying large wind projects is important to reach economies of scale for their construction
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“The world has changed a lot, and our energy context has changed a lot,” he told a news conference in late May
wind power is an essential part of the diversification of our system,” and “projects of scale are necessary to achieve economies of scale.”
“Based on recent wind power projects announced in Quebec, notably the Des Neiges development
the Chamouchouane zone could see as many as 600 wind tower turbines in place,” the Globe writes
At least one expert said the project will face financial risk
all requiring Hydro-Québec to adapt operations to meet the new challenges associated with larger projects
“Once fully online, this investment will… bring important operational challenges to Hydro-Québec, as the corporation will now have to manage this major source of variable power on its network,” said François Bouffard
associate professor of electrical and computer engineering at Montreal’s McGill University
Bouffard expressed “hope for a mechanism for de-risking this kind of project for the First Nations communities involved,” noting that the communities don’t have “the deep pockets of Hydro-Québec or of the Quebec government.”
autonomous income that can be allocated to priorities of their choosing.” Hydro-Québec
will act as shareholder and “maître-d’oeuvre”
“Our communities must be at the heart of large-scale projects such as this,” said Pekuakamiulnuatsh First Nation Chief Gilbert Dominique
“This historic partnership represents an important milestone in the lasting relationship that we hope to see develop between First Nations
Bouffard said the project will also face short-term challenges with supply chains
“The scale of this project will demand the mobilization of a very large number of construction crews
while the specialized construction labour market is already strained in the province,” he wrote
right now globally there is a race to procure large-scale wind generation and power transmission assets.”
More worrisome than managing variable supply
will be how the corporation dispatches generation during periods of low demand
the incentive for Hydro-Québec will be to maximize the wind power output of the wind farm as a way to keep water behind its dams,” he wrote
That may mean decommitting redundant hydropower turbines from the system
which may lead to problems if there is a sudden loss of generation
Hydro-Québec will have to investigate such edge cases and develop adequate strategies
will involve reducing the amount of wind generation on the system during those times in the year” when good winds align with low demand
Community consultations for the project are expected to begin next month. The partners have not released a target completion date for the project, the Montreal Gazette says
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Minister of the Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada and Mr
Wildlife and Parks and Minister responsible for the Laurentides Region
confirm their commitment to expand the Saguenay–St
as well as the preliminary study area for the proposed Anticosti-Mingan marine park of nearly 14,000km2
Quebec's network of protected marine areas would reach nearly 19%
These two initiatives testify to the effective collaboration and leadership of the governments of Canada and Quebec in marine conservation on the Quebec territory
while reflecting a vision that combines the conservation of natural environments
the strengthening of local and regional economies
as well as the preservation of access to nature for present and future generations
The official description of the new marine park area will be determined on the basis of the proposal presented for public consultation
The marine park could therefore have a total surface area of around 4,500 km2
which corresponds to around nine times the surface area of the island of Montreal
this marine park will protect around 2.9% of Quebec's marine environment
Lawrence Marine Park will significantly enhance the protection of the St
which are home to an exceptional biodiversity
will now be integrated into the marine park
Through discovery and educational activities
while supporting the maintenance and development of a sustainable tourism offer.
Preliminary Study Area for the Anticosti-Mingan Marine Park Project
the ministers announced that the preliminary study area for the Anticosti-Mingan Marine Park project could cover nearly 14,000 km2
mainly in the marine portion between the Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve and Anticosti Island
representing 29 times the surface area of the island of Montreal
This project could represent a conservation gain of 8.4% in terms of Quebec's protected marine area by 2030
the governments of Canada and Quebec will meet with stakeholders
including First Nations and coastal communities
to gather their opinions and their comments on this future conservation project
Lawrence Marine Park is a crucial step towards the protection of Quebec's marine biodiversity
Together with the Anticosti-Mingan marine park project
these two projects demonstrate our government's commitment to protecting forever more of our marine and coastal areas across the country
less than 1% of these areas were protected
Our government is proud to work with the Quebec government and Indigenous communities to protect more of our magnificent territory for present and future generations."
Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada
"Not only are these two initiatives essential to better preserve the rich biodiversity of the St
but they are also a great opportunity to showcase these unique natural gems
In addition to increasing the socio-economic benefits for our regions affected by these conservation projects
we are making the richness of Quebec's marine life more accessible for the public
Our government is very proud of the collaboration of all our partners
as well as the people and organizations who contribute to the preservation of our marine environments."
Benoit Charette,Minister of the Ministry of the Environment
MontrealNewsPolice investigate suspicious death after body found in ChicoutimiBy The Canadian PressPublished: January 01, 2025 at 4:50PM EST
Volume 8 - 2020 | https://doi.org/10.3389/fevo.2020.00257
This article is part of the Research TopicAdvances in Reconstructing Biotic and Abiotic Interactions in Forest EcosystemsView all 6 articles
Human activities have changed forest composition of northeastern North America since European settlement by increasing the importance of pioneer shade-intolerant species
at the expense of shade-tolerant and long-lived species
This study used tree taxa lists from land survey archives (1842–1935) to document the pre-settlement forest composition in a heavily transformed region at the temperate-boreal interface in eastern Québec (Canada)
Pre-settlement forests were dominated by a spruce-fir-white birch assemblage
Two additional assemblages were characterized by high relative frequency of the fire-adapted jack pine and poplar
suggesting that fire was an important factor of pre-settlement forest dynamics
Comparison with modern forest inventories (1980–2010) showed that trembling aspen
jack pine and red maple increased to the detriment of spruce
The spruce-fir-white birch assemblage is now confined to high elevations and steep slopes
while the jack pine assemblage has extended its distribution and strengthen its association with sandy deposits
Surveyors’ fire observations revealed a high fire activity during the settlement period (1842–1971) and human ignitions were probably the predominant cause
While settlement fires are a likely explanation for the post-settlement increase of jack pine and trembling aspen
industrial logging and land clearing are important factors that could explain the decline of spruce and pines (red and white)
Ecosystem-based forest management should aim to increase spruce frequency and dominance over disturbance-adapted (shade intolerant and fast-growing) species
and red pines in the plains sector where forest transformation has been the most important
longevity and shade tolerance of pre-settlement species could be considered
in order to maintain or restore ecosystem function
Although land survey archives are available throughout SLSTJ in the form of tree taxon lists, which are ranked tree taxa enumerations along survey lines (Dupuis et al., 2011; Terrail et al., 2014)
this data source has not been exploited yet
the objectives of this study were to (1) document the pre-settlement forest composition of SLSTJ at both regional and landscape scales
(2) assess changes through comparison with modern forest inventories
while paying special attention to settlement fires and environmental gradients
and (3) discuss how this new knowledge can be used to plan forest management in the temperate-boreal ecotone
Location of the study area (inset) in eastern Canada
along with maps of townships and vegetation zones (A)
and of the elevation bands (metres above sea level) showing the Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean Plains (B)
Specific cover types were considered equivalent to pure stands of the corresponding taxon in order to include them as taxon lists
Weighted observations were used in all calculations involving historical data
Observations were georeferenced as points or lines using modern cadastral maps built from the same land survey records
Because the occurrence of fires was important in the logbooks reporting the original surveys of townships (see section “Results”)
fires mentioned in resurvey mission logbooks were also tallied in order to document the prevalence of forest fires over the entire settlement period
Resurvey missions were required to inspect or correct previous works
and to restore original lines and lot corners that had disappeared over time
recent fires (1950–2015) were compiled from the Québec government fire database (MFFP)
A rank was then assigned to each taxon according to its relative basal area within modern plots
Only modern plots that were located within a maximum distance of 3 km from the nearest historical observation were retained
In sectors with low density of historical observations
taxa that occurred in less than 3% of both data sets were grouped as “other.”
where Ni is the number of observations mentioning the taxon i and Mi is the total number of observations
the dominance represents the frequency of occurrence of each taxon i at the first ranking position (i.e.
while the low density of historical observations at the periphery of the study area was the main factor restricting the retention of cells with enough modern plots
we first calculated the frequency of each taxon as the proportion of all observations (weighted length or modern plots) mentioning the corresponding taxon in the grid cell
to facilitate comparisons between taxa and cells
we calculated a relative frequency for each taxon into each cell by scaling its frequency relative to the sum of the frequencies of all taxa
We mapped the relative frequency for each of the 11 retained taxa
Recent fires were mostly concentrated in the northern sector where they overlapped several fires previously recorded by surveyors
The cause of the fires during the 1950–1970 period is unknown
while 90% of the fires reported between 1970 and 2015 were of human origin
Maps showing (A) surveyor’s fire observations (points and lines) tallied from logbooks of original surveys and resurveys
(B) distribution and size of recent fires from mapped fire polygons
and (C) present-day land use in the study area
Histograms represent kilometers of fire along range lines (surveyor’s observations) and burned areas (recent fires) by decade
Taxa frequencies and ranked frequency index (RFir) for pre-settlement (1842–1935) and modern (1980–2010) periods
Maps of taxa relative frequency aggregated to 25-km2 grid cells for pre-settlement (1842–1935) and modern (1980–2010) periods
The difference is calculated by subtracting the relative frequency of the two periods (modern minus pre-settlement)
pattern of changes in relative frequency were rather uniform for most increasing (jack pine
except white birch and balsam fir which displayed patchy patterns of increases and decreases
Landscape tree assemblages identified by hierarchical clustering of the 25-km2 grid cells
(A) Maps of the clusters for the two time periods with histograms showing the number of cells in each cluster; (B) Table of cluster composition showing taxon mean relative frequency and standard deviation (bars); (C) Transition among clusters from pre-settlement (top) to modern (bottom) periods
The width of each box is proportional to the corresponding number of cells
and strengthened its relationship with sandy deposits
cluster 4 exchanged many cells with other clusters and became less strongly associated with the surface deposits of the plains
Principal component analysis (PCA) where axes 1 and 2 explain 46.8% and 19.6% of the environmental variability
correlations of environmental variables with axes 1 and 2
and clusters (circles) for both time periods as the centroids of the corresponding cell scores
Circles size is proportional to the corresponding number of cells in each cluster
Arrows between clusters show the transition from pre-settlement to modern periods
PCA1 mainly represents the plains on the left
where clay and sandy deposits are predominant
where glacial till is abundant and settlement is absent
PCA2 is more associated with soil texture and reflects more subtle differences among cells
these fires may have occasionally escaped and affected forest composition on large areas on the SLSTJ’s plains
where fire-adapted species were frequent before European settlement
Residual cells of these clusters now occur chiefly on the uplands or close to the Saguenay River
where human population density is low and agriculture not developed
several cells of clusters 1 and 2 on the plains have been either lost to land-use change (agriculture
urbanization) or replaced by new tree assemblages (clusters 3 and 4) better adapted to human disturbances (fire
tree planting programs guided by past substrate preferences may be needed for spruce as well as for restoring the less abundant yellow birch
pines (red and white) and cedar to higher frequency and dominance levels
it should be noted that our study only provides reference conditions for the period just before the European settlement
and that longer paleoecological records should also be considered to identify a wider range of vegetation targets for future climate trends and disturbance regimes
The datasets generated for this study are available on request to the corresponding author
SD wrote the manuscript with substantial inputs from DA
All authors contributed to the article and approved the submitted version
This study was financed by the Québec’s Ministère des Forêts
The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest
We thank two reviewers for their constructive comments
which greatly improved the first version of the manuscript
We also thank Rachel Bouserhal for English revision
The Supplementary Material for this article can be found online at: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fevo.2020.00257/full#supplementary-material
Global change impacts on forest and fire dynamics using paleoecology and tree census data for eastern North America
CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar
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Mining company Rio Tinto has selected Hatch to provide engineering
construction management and pre-operational services for its AP60 aluminum smelter expansion project in Saguenay
Serving as Rio Tinto’s integrated delivery partner for the $1.4-billion project
Hatch will add 96 cells and increase the facility’s capacity by approximately 160,000 tonnes of primary aluminum per year
for a total of 220,000 tonnes per year from 134 cells
currently underway—will extend existing potrooms
install a new gas treatment centre and pot tending machines and modify existing anode rodding and casting processes
is reportedly the most efficient and among the lowest-carbon electrolysis options available on the market on a large scale
generating seven times less direct greenhouse gases (GHGs) per tonne of aluminum than the industry average when combined with hydroelectricity (as it is in Rio Tinto’s Canadian operations)
Hatch has worked with Rio Tinto on projects around the world for more than 60 years
including the first commercial implementation of the AP60 technology with the construction of the smelter’s initial 38 pots
“We are thrilled Rio Tinto has selected us to continue work on this important project,” says Nabil Habib
project sponsor and regional managing director for Hatch in Eastern Canada
“We are thankful for their confidence in our experts.”
“We share Rio Tinto’s desire to decarbonize the aluminum value chain,” says Andrea De Mori
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QUÉBEC — The Quebec government says it would be open to reviving a liquefied natural gas project in the Saguenay region to transport Alberta energy overseas
as a way to reduce the country's reliance on the United States as an export market
Quebec refused to authorize GNL Québec Inc.'s proposed liquefaction facility and export terminal in 2021 and Ottawa followed suit in 2022
President Donald Trump’s threats to impose tariffs on Canadian energy have increased the urgency for Canadian oil and gas producers to seek export markets beyond south of the border
Quebec Environment Minister Benoit Charette signalled a willingness to entertain proposals from GNL Québec
"We're not closed to energy projects that respect environmental criteria," he said
later adding he would "study (the project) on its merits."
Charette said the proposed facility and export terminal risked “disadvantaging the energy transition” away from fossil fuels
was economically “risky” and posed “more disadvantages than advantages.”
Charette said the province "made the decision (to say no) ..
and we have no intention of reconsidering it
It's no longer a project (under consideration) in Quebec and we're pretty firm on that.”
the province's economy and energy minister
said Wednesday that the project would need to be accepted by the population to go forward
a green light that didn't exist a few years ago
“We need social acceptability for a project like GNL Québec,” she said
the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada concluded that the plant and export terminal would increase greenhouse gas emissions
And while members of the governing Coalition Avenir Québec party showed openness to the project on Wednesday
later in the day its members voted down an attempt by two Independent members to adopt a motion in the legislature asking the government to "re-evaluate its positions on transporting Canadian energy resources.”
both former CAQ members turned Independents
failed to get enough votes to have their motion adopted
who doesn't have a seat in the legislature
told reporters Wednesday he welcomed the end of the unanimity of elected officials against GNL Québec
"And that involves three things: exploiting our natural gas in Quebec
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb
Article originally published in the McGill Reporter.
What’s happening on and off the Hill today
While consultations on the draft order were initially set to wrap up this week
Guilbeault has already extended the deadline by four weeks — which
was “in response to “requests from Quebec’s Indigenous communities and stakeholders,” and
“will also provide an additional opportunity for the Government of Quebec to present a comprehensive strategy” to bring in its own protective measures
which could eliminate the need for a federal order
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre will get the chance to highlight his party’s unwavering opposition to any attempt by Ottawa to impose new limits on local logging roads when he hits the hustings in Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean
Expect him to emphasize that message when he takes the stage at what the party is billing as a “Protect Our Jobs” rally in Chicoutimi tonight
New Democrat Jagmeet Singh winds down his five-day sprint through Atlantic Canada in Halifax
by joining local New Democrat hopeful Lisa Roberts on the downtown campus of the Nova Scotia Community College Institute of Technology
where the pair will hold a midday media briefing to promote their party’s pitch to “fix the affordable housing shortage” (12:15 p.m
AT) as well as co-chair a “Change The Rules Town Hall” in the evening
The House of Commons has shut down for the summer
Regular parliamentary programming will resume in September
MontrealNewsWind power: Quebec announces a major partnership with the Essipit Innu First NationBy The Canadian PressPublished: January 29, 2025 at 3:54PM EST
Welcome back to your weekly mining news recap
where we catch you up on some of the news you may have missed
This week’s headlines include a preview of MINExpo 2024
Samarco partners Vale and BHP inching closer to finalizing a deal over the 2015 Mariana tailings dam collapse
and Ascot Resources suspending operations at its recently opened Premier gold mine
The Yukon Supreme Court has approved the first transaction that would allow the Selkirk First Nation (SFN) to take over the suspended Minto copper-gold mine and its assets. The mine, previously owned by Minto Metals Corp., was abandoned on May 12
and the Yukon government took over the site to conduct remediation
it could be the first Indigenous-owned mine in Canada
First Phosphate has leased an industrial facility in Saguenay–Lac-St-Jean, Quebec, with the aim of retrofitting the plant to produce 10,000 tonnes per year of iron phosphate, a key ingredient needed to make cathode active material for lithium iron phosphate batteries, as reported by Canadian Mining Journal
will use phosphate from the company’s nearby mines and is projected to generate 100 jobs
After 24 years of dormancy, a portion of the Quintette mine in northeastern B.C. has resumed operations, as reported by CBC News
which last produced steelmaking coal in 2000
will generate more than 400 permanent jobs once it is fully up and running
is investing over $500 million to bring the mine back into full operation
The company did not say when it expects to fully reopen the mine
Vale, BHP and their joint venture Samarco are nearing an agreement with Brazilian authorities to pay approximately 100 billion reais ($24.2 billion) in compensation for the Mariana dam collapse on Nov. 15, 2015, which released a flood of tailings that killed 19 people, as reported by Reuters
Sources suggest a final agreement could be reached in October
exceeding a previous offer of 82 billion reais made in June
Just shy of five months after its first gold pour, Ascot Resources is suspending operations at its Premier mine located near Stewart, B.C., as reported by Business in Vancouver
The company said that due to delays in development at its Big Missouri and Premier Northern Lights (PNL) mines
there are not enough stoping areas to provide sufficient ore to feed the mill
The company estimated that operations will resume in three to six months and will require further fundraising
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and other facilities in Sweden and Germany
Any timeline adjustments to its projects and additional cost-cutting measures will be shared publicly in the next few months
and more retaliation is feared from any new surtaxes
The finance ministry will open a 30-day public consultation on the possible surtax
Paladin Energy announced on Sept. 10 that Fission Uranium shareholders have approved its $1.14 billion acquisition of the company, with 67.9 per cent of votes being in favour, as reported by Engineering News
An earlier vote had failed to get sufficient support
The deal gives Paladin control of the Patterson Lake South uranium project in Saskatchewan’s Athabasca Basin
Magna Mining Inc. announced a deal with a subsidiary of global miner KGHM International Ltd. to acquire several base metal assets located in Ontario’s Sudbury basin, as reported by Resource World Magazine
which has a purchase price of $5.3 million in cash and $2 million in common shares
includes the producing McCreedy West copper mine
Kinross Gold has released a preliminary economic assessment for its Great Bear project, located in Red Lake, Ontario, as reported by Mining.com
Kinross plans to develop the project into a major gold mine
with first stope production possibly starting as early as 2029
Capital costs for the project are expected to be US$1.4 billion
That’s all for this week. If you’ve got feedback, you can always reach us at editor@cim.org. If you’ve got something to add, why not join the conversation on our Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn or Instagram pages
The CIM Magazine Weekly Mining News Recap for August 30
The CIM Magazine Weekly Mining News Recap for November 29
Quick wits saved a man’s life last month when a crane boom came down onto him in Nanjing
UK rental company Clear View has ordered three Ruthmann truck mounted platforms
US crane rental company Crane Service Inc has ordered another Liebherr LG 1800-1.0 wheeled lattice crane
Haulotte has appointed Guillaume Van Hoeck as managing director Europe
Czech crane rental company AG Transport has ordered an 800t LR 1800-1.0 lattice crawler
German sales and rental company Kunze has added Elma cranes to its portfolio
This bridge over Quebec's Saguenay River
the first in the world to be made entirely from aluminum
connects the former town of Arvida to the Shipshaw II hydroelectric power station
it a testament to the metal's importance in building their community.Photography by Renaud Philippe/The Globe and Mail
completed in 1950 as the first of its kind anywhere
stands as a tribute to a symbiotic relationship
its elegant arch faces the Shipshaw II Power Station
This is no coincidence, says Lucie Morisset
given the link between the aluminum industry and the abundant hydroelectric power in Quebec
“It’s not the labour that determines the production costs of aluminum
referring to the material from which aluminum is extracted
whose portrait hangs in the Arvida library
was an American mining magnate who helped make the Canadian aluminum industry what it is today
a former company town now part of Saguenay’s Jonquière borough
is named after the father of the Canadian aluminum industry
More than a century after the start of Davis’s business ventures north of the border
his fellow countrymen’s threats of hefty tariffs could jeopardize the future of the industry he began
Last week, U.S. President Donald Trump announced 25-per-cent levies on all steel and aluminum imports
reigniting a trade conflict that could have serious consequences for Canada’s export-oriented metal producers
Quebec furnished 65 per cent of the U.S.’s aluminum imports in 2024
according to the Aluminium Association of Canada
Canada shipped US$24.4-billion worth of aluminum and steel into the United States
The aluminum industry in Canada employs around 9,500 people
The country’s major producers are Anglo-Australian miner Rio Tinto PLC
and privately held Quebec-based Aluminerie Alouette
Raw materials for aluminum production come through Rio Tinto's port facilities at Port-Alfred
Industry observers believe Quebec’s abundant hydroelectric power – the same power promise that drew the aluminum industry here at the turn of the 20th century – will help the province weather the latest tariff threat
And while there has been talk of diversifying markets
Quebec Premier François Legault has said Quebeckers need to get used to the idea that their economy will never be the same
Marc-Urbain Proulx
an economist at University of Quebec at Chicoutimi
said the global aluminum market has been in turmoil on and off since the late 1970s
with the rise of international competitors such as China
“Major players like Alcoa and Rio Tinto are used to driving through the storm,” he said
adding that Quebec can still count on its advantage: abundant cheap
one of the installations along the Saguenay that made this area attractive for aluminum making
From the get-go, Quebec’s powerful rivers were instrumental in aluminum production. The Isle-Maligne power station, on the Grande Décharge River, was completed in 1926 and fed the Arvida smelter
Additional stations were built in the region over the following decades
keeping up with the expansion of aluminum production
Davis, Arvida’s namesake, had worked for the Pittsburgh Reduction Company. In the 1880s, its founder, chemist Charles Martin Hall, had discovered the electrolytic process for producing cheaper aluminum
The business was later renamed the Aluminum Company of America
Davis became its president and chief executive in 1910
The company poured its first made-in-Quebec aluminum ingot in 1901, in Shawinigan. But the industry got its permanent Canadian footing in 1925 in the Saguenay – Lac-Saint-Jean region, now crossed by the Aluminum Highway
Mining and metals giant Rio Tinto operates four smelters in the region, from Alma to La Baie, producing about a third of Canada’s aluminum
Davis and his associates built Arvida, a company town centred around what would become the world’s most important aluminum smelter, on the shore of the Saguenay River. Production started in 1926 and reached 360,000 tonnes in 1943
playing a critical role in supplying the Allied forces
The former town of Arvida is now recognized as a National Historic Site
The Parks Canada website calls it a “well preserved example of a Canadian company town” and “a singular instance of planned quality worker housing.”
Marcel Tremblay is a retired diesel mechanic whose grandfather left the farming life so he
his sons and their descendants could earn a living from the aluminum boom
points out Marcel Tremblay in an old photo
Tremblay still lives in the historic district.Renaud Philippe/The Globe and Mail
was one of the Arvida smelter’s first employees
He sold his farmland for $38,000 and a guarantee that his sons would be offered work there
Hermel Tremblay raised his family in a red brick house footsteps away from the smelter. His grandson still lives there. Looking left from the driveway, the sky is permanently obscured by the smoke belching out of the factory’s chimneys, which emit thousands of tonnes of fine particulate matter
sulphur dioxide and other toxic pollutants
and his six brothers also worked at what became the Aluminum Company of Canada (Alcan)
He was a diesel mechanic for 38 years until his retirement in the early 2000s
It’s already happened; it’s nothing new,” he said
recalling past economic upheaval that shut down the factory
is one of many that has made Quebec an aluminum powerhouse over the years
Saguenay’s aluminum industry started with U.S
“but it is in fact with the fusion of the American capacity for innovation and the capacity for innovation in Quebec and Canada that we have managed to do what we have done.”
Between 1977 and 1988, Alcan built facilities in La Baie and Chicoutimi, known as the Grande-Baie and Laterrière smelters. It completed the Alma smelter in 2001. All are now operated by London-based Rio Tinto after its 2007 takeover of Alcan, which prompted fears of a corporate “hollowing out” of Canada
Other producers also settled in Quebec. Alcan’s ancestor, Alcoa, operates three sites in Deschambault, Baie-Comeau and Bécancour. The biggest smelter is Alouette’s
Only one smelter in Canada is located in another province: Rio Tinto’s Kitimat site in British Columbia
The bulk of this production is exported to the U.S., placing Saguenay among the Canadian cities most vulnerable to American tariffs
according to the Canadian Chamber of Commerce
The president of the Aluminium Association of Canada, Jean Simard, has sought to be reassuring, saying that the U.S. depends on Canadian aluminum and that tariffs won’t affect workers. However, the association also published a Feb. 11 news release denouncing Mr
saying that “Canadian aluminum must remain exempt of any tariffs.”
an original model of the Arvida district reminds visitors of the ambitious plans Quebeckers made to earn better livelihoods through aluminum
Sebastien Breau
an associate professor of geography at McGill University who studies international trade
said the reality probably lies somewhere in between
to pivot and produce its own aluminum or find other suppliers
But it would also be challenging for Canadian producers to diversify their markets given the integration of North American supply chains
doubts that anyone would invest in building new U.S
smelters that would have to rely on fossil fuels for decades to come
other markets such as Europe will be hard to reach because they are already well supplied
Rio Tinto declined multiple requests for comment
said in a Radio-Canada interview aired last week that its investment in the region will continue
the company is building a $1.4-billion smelter expansion
Editor’s note: A previous version of the article included a photo caption that incorrectly said Marcel Tremblay was pointing at himself in an old photo
director of the Centre d'histoire Arvida
Quebec is more than poutine and centuries-old cobblestone streets; it's a dynamic province where historical charm meets forward-thinking communities
From snow-dusted festivals that transform entire neighborhoods into winter wonderlands to bustling startups sprouting up in unexpected corners
Quebec continues to defy its own stereotypes in 2025
Finding the right fit in Quebec sometimes means looking beyond the tourist hotspots and exploring towns that blend French Canadian tradition with modern-day conveniences
These are places where you can sip locally roasted coffee in a café once visited by legendary poets or join new neighbors for a sunrise kayak on a glassy lake minutes from your doorstep
Whether your priority is economic opportunity
we uncover nine of the best places to plant your roots in Quebec
each offering a fresh perspective on why "La Belle Province" will live up to its name in 2025
Gatineau sits directly across the Ottawa River from Canada's capital, Ottawa
which was originally settled in the early 19th century and has since grown into a key player in the National Capital Region's cultural and social landscape
Gatineau stands out for its cultural institutions
one of Canada's largest and most visited museums
the Jacques Cartier Park hosts major events like the Winterlude and the Mosaïculture flower sculpture exhibit
spots like Le Cellier St-Jacques offer distinctive local flavors and craft beers
The median house price in Gatineau in 2025 stands at around CAD 500,000
offering a more accessible real estate market compared to nearby Ottawa
The city is served by institutions like the Cégep de l'Outaouais and Université du Québec en Outaouais
enhancing its appeal as an educational hub
the Gatineau Hospital provides comprehensive services
ensuring residents have access to excellent medical care
Sherbrooke merges a vibrant cultural heritage with a dynamic educational scene in the heart of Quebec's Eastern Townships
Established in the 18th century at the confluence of the Magog and Saint-François rivers
it became a center for milling and textiles
Sherbrooke is a hub for academia and research
housing Bishop's University and Université de Sherbrooke
both renowned for their robust programs and contributions to scientific research
The city's commitment to culture is reflected in institutions like the Musée de la Nature et des Sciences and the historical performances at the Théâtre Granada
Recreational and lifestyle amenities in Sherbrooke cater to diverse interests
the Marché de la Gare hosts local artisans and food producers
while Café Pierre Jean Jase provides a cozy setting for coffee enthusiasts
Nature lovers frequent the vast Parc du Mont-Bellevue for skiing and hiking
The median house price in Sherbrooke hovers around CAD 500,000 in 2025
CHUS (Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke) offers leading medical services
is defined by its unique geographical setting within a large fjord
The city’s historical evolution from fur trading and pulp and paper industries to a center for aluminum production reflects a deep connection with its natural resources
Saguenay hosts the Université du Québec à Chicoutimi
fostering a strong academic and research environment
The median house price in Saguenay as of 2025 stands at approximately CAD 350,000
making it an economically viable option for many
The La Pulperie de Chicoutimi - Musée régional provides historical insights alongside cultural exhibitions
La Voie Maltée serves locally brewed beers and robust menus
Outdoor enthusiasts frequent the Parc National du Fjord-du-Saguenay for kayaking and hiking spectacular cliffside views
Health services are well-supported by the Chicoutimi Hospital
which offers comprehensive medical care to the region’s residents
Drummondville plays a pivotal role in Quebec's Centre-du-Québec region
Established in 1815 as a defense outpost during the War of 1812
it has since transformed into a thriving industrial and cultural center
Drummondville's median house price in 2025 is CAD 340,000
The city is home to Cégep de Drummondville
providing diverse educational programs that contribute to the local economy and culture
The Village Québécois d'Antan provides a historical reenactment of Quebec life in the 19th century
Restaurant L'Odika stands out with its modern fusion cuisine
while Rose Cafe offers a selection of fine coffees and pastries
Drummondville's arts scene is anchored by the Maison des arts Desjardins
which hosts performances ranging from ballet to orchestras
the Sainte-Croix Hospital delivers comprehensive medical care to the community
is one of the oldest cities in North America at the confluence of the Saint-Maurice and Saint Lawrence rivers
This city is noted for its rich historical tapestry and vibrant cultural life
which are highlighted by the annual FestiVoix music festival
The Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières (UQTR) serves as a major educational institution
offering a range of programs and contributing significantly to the local economy and culture
The median house price in Trois-Rivières in 2025 is CAD 300,000
providing accessible housing options for residents
In terms of local amenities and attractions
focusing on the history of the local paper industry with interactive exhibits
Food enthusiasts enjoy Le Buck: Pub Gastronomique for its local cuisine
Parc Portuaire provides stunning river views and outdoor activities for relaxation and recreation
with the Centre Hospitalier Régional de Trois-Rivières offering comprehensive medical care
is distinguished by its strategic positioning
which played a key role in the defense against American invasions during the 19th century
offer a glimpse into Canada’s military past
the median house price in Levis is CAD 300,000
providing a relatively affordable living environment compared to Quebec City
an important educational institution that contributes to the city’s vibrant community life
Restaurants like L'Intimiste excel in offering fine dining experiences
while the Chocolaterie de l’Île d’Orléans caters to those with a sweet tooth
the Hôtel-Dieu de Lévis provides comprehensive medical services to the population
Rimouski is celebrated for its maritime heritage and as a major center for oceanic sciences
The city hosts the Université du Québec à Rimouski (UQAR)
which significantly contribute to its economy and cultural landscape
The Rimouski Regional Hospital provides essential healthcare services to the community
the median house price in Rimouski stands at approximately CAD 300,000
making it an affordable option for many potential homeowners
The Site historique maritime de la Pointe-au-Père allows visitors to explore the Onondaga submarine and learn about the tragic sinking of the RMS Empress of Ireland
Gastronomy enthusiasts can enjoy fresh seafood at La Réserve Bistro
For those interested in outdoor activities
the Parc Beauséjour provides ample space for walking and family picnics
is one of Quebec's oldest municipalities on the South Shore of the St
This town distinguishes itself with its rich history and well-preserved natural environments
notably the Îles-de-Boucherville National Park
a group of small islands offering extensive recreational activities
The area is also home to a notable educational institution
which is central to the community's educational framework
The Pierre-Boucher Hospital provides comprehensive medical services to the local population
the median house price in Boucherville is CAD 500,000
reflecting its status as a desirable suburban enclave
The town is home to several quality restaurants
is renowned for its well-preserved historical architecture and status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site
it is one of the oldest cities in North America
the only remaining fortified city walls in North America north of Mexico
one of the first universities in North America
the median house price in Quebec City is approximately CAD 440,000
Quebec City offers a plethora of activities and sites
The Musée National des Beaux-arts du Québec showcases an extensive collection of Quebec art
while the Petit Champlain district is famous for its quaint shops and cafes
like La Maison Smith for coffee and Le Lapin Sauté for dining
The Plains of Abraham provide vast green spaces for outdoor activities
From Gatineau’s cultural offerings to Rimouski’s maritime charm
these nine cities highlight Quebec’s appeal in 2025
each provides unique opportunities for families and professionals alike
Quebec stands out as a province where tradition and innovation combine for a rewarding lifestyle
photos and original descriptions © 2025 worldatlas.com
The Saguenay Port Authority in Quebec has ordered a Konecranes Gottwald ESP.6B Mobile Harbor Crane for a new cargo handling system currently under development
Situated on North America’s only navigable fjord
Port Saguenay provides cargo ships with year-round access to north-central Quebec
The natural deepwater port can accommodate vessels of up to 100,000 tonnes
the port authority is now expanding its facilities to handle more cargo traffic
This deal marks the start of a new partnership with the Saguenay Port Authority
which chose Konecranes for the flexibility
eco-efficiency and strong performance of its electric drives
The mobile harbor crane will run mainly on an external power supply
significantly reducing emissions compared to diesel-powered alternatives
The ESP.6B comes equipped with an electric cable reel at the boom top to operate an electric hook rotator and spreaders
With these special features and its 125-tonne maximum lifting capacity
the crane can handle bulk materials – like de-icing salt and iron ore – as well as containers and general cargo
the Konecranes equipment will be instrumental in helping us to reduce our carbon footprint
With the extra handling features we’ve chosen
the crane is a true asset for the planned growth of the port and the world-class industrial port zone
one of the largest In North America,” says Carl Laberge
Chief Executive Officer at Saguenay Port Authority
“Konecranes’ industry-leading electric drive concept played a decisive role in securing this agreement
We are very happy to have the Saguenay Port Authority on board as we help more and more customers to reduce emissions while maintaining high operational performance,” says Andreas Moeller
This contract is part of Ecolifting
Konecranes’ vision to increase its handprint – meaning the beneficial environmental impact that can be achieved with our product and service portfolio – while reducing customers’ carbon footprints
to hybridization and fully-electrified fleets
A strong focus on customers and commitment to business growth and continuous improvement make Konecranes a material handling industry leader
This is underpinned by investments in digitalization and technology
plus our work to make material flows more efficient with solutions that decarbonize the economy and advance circularity and safety
For a concise overview of Konecranes’ business, please click here. More information on Konecranes Gottwald Mobile Harbor Cranes can be found here
The McGill Reporter recently published a story about KPE's Dr
Benoit Gentil and his work in developing gene therapy for a rare genetic disorder known as Ataxia of Charlevoix-Saguenay (ACS)
which primarily affects individuals in certain regions of Quebec
leads to progressive loss of coordination and balance due to a genetic mutation
is focusing on creating a gene therapy approach to address the underlying genetic cause of ACS
His team is working on a treatment that would correct or replace the faulty gene responsible for the disorder
The development of this therapy involves using advanced genetic engineering techniques to potentially restore normal function and slow or halt the progression of the disease
The Reporter article highlights the significance of this research
as it represents a promising step toward targeted treatments for genetic disorders that are otherwise challenging to manage
Gentils' work is part of a broader effort to leverage gene therapy as a viable option for treating rare and complex conditions
13 that it is exploring the extraction and valorization of gallium from the bauxite processed at its Vaudreuil alumina refinery in Saguenay
as part of an ongoing research and development initiative
If the preliminary phase of technology development is proven to be conclusive
the company plans to construct a demonstration plant in Saguenay to showcase extraction technology capable of producing up to 3.5 tonnes of gallium annually
is an essential metal used in the production of integrated circuits
which are crucial for technologies like radar
This news comes not long after China’s Dec. 3 announcement regarding an immediate export ban on gallium, germanium and antimony to the U.S. in response to new U.S. restrictions on advanced technology sales to China. On Dec. 13, gallium prices spiked to their highest levels since 2011
In 2022, all primary gallium for semiconductor production was sourced from outside of Canada. Recognizing the need to develop a domestic supply, the Government of Quebec has pledged up to $7 million to support the development of the demonstration plant
“I'm delighted to support this project, which promotes the acquisition of cutting-edge knowledge in the transformation of gallium, a critical and strategic metal in Quebec and around the world,” said Maïté Blanchette Vézina, Quebec’s minister of natural resources and forestry, in a Dec. 13 press release from Rio Tinto
“Today's announcement is directly in line with our government's vision of a circular economy
and Quebec's influence as a world leader in critical and strategic minerals.”
senior advisor of media relations for Rio Tinto Canada and U.S.
told CIM Magazine in an email that in the coming months
the company will develop the gallium extraction process from its alumina refining operations and will then conduct pilot tests
She noted that while the demonstration plant is being built
Rio Tinto teams will continue to work on the next research and development steps
‘‘Given the strategic importance of gallium in the North American supply chain
so as not to slow down this step if we go ahead
site preparation work for the demonstration plant should begin in the next few months,’’ Cherry wrote
Scott Sinclair
Note : Ceci s’agit d’une version mise à jour et traduite d’un rapport qui a été initialement publié en décembre 2023. Le rapport originel est disponible en anglais ici.
Une compagnie américaine voulait construire un énorme projet d’énergie fossile près de Saguenay
Après un débat public approfondi
les gouvernements provincial et fédéral ont rejeté le projet pour des raisons environnementales
L’entreprise a lancé un litige commercial sans précédent contre le Canada
confirmant ainsi la terrible menace que le règlement des différends entre investisseurs et États (RDIE) représente pour l’action climatique
L’affaire Ruby River met en évidence le défi que représente le RDIE pour la prise de décision démocratique et la participation du public dans le cadre des processus publics
y compris les évaluations d’impacts environnementaux des grands projets d’exploitation des énergies fossiles
Ce rapport analyse en détail l’affaire
telle qu’elle se présente actuellement
et propose des moyens pour les gouvernements d’empêcher les entreprises de combustibles fossiles d’utiliser des tribunaux d’investisseurs secrets pour bloquer l’action climatique à l’avenir
Ontario’s colleges stand at a critical crossroads
the province’s college system has endured severe funding shortfalls
with Ontario contributing less than 25 per…
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The CCPA acknowledges that Indigenous Peoples are the traditional guardians of Turtle Island
and are committed to lifting Indigenous voices
We will continue to speak out against colonialism and the injustices Indigenous Peoples faced historically and in the present
respect and support the custodians of this land
are grateful for the opportunity to work and meet here
and commit to expanding our allyship while acknowledging the space we occupy
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Quebec is a province rich in culture and breathtaking landscapes and is home to some of Canada's most captivating small towns
From the charming ski resort town of Saint-Sauveur to the picturesque village of Chelsea
each destination offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures
Whether you're seeking relaxation or a chance to get in touch with the great outdoors
Quebec's small towns invite visitors to immerse themselves in their enchanting allure and vibrant traditions
making for an unforgettable getaway in this remarkable province
Saint-Sauveur is a lovely resort town just 45 minutes from Montreal at the foot of the majestic Laurentian Mountains
Its proximity to the mountains makes it a hot spot for various year-round adventures
Spend a day skiing at excellent resorts such as Sommet Saint-Sauveur
These rec zones offer more than just skiing
Try inner tubing at Glissade Sur Tube at Mont Avila
or enjoy the Parc aquatique Sommet Saint-Sauveur (water park) during the summer
Consider a helicopter tour with Domaine des Pays d'en Haut in nearby Piedmont for a unique perspective of the breathtaking landscapes
The town has a strong artists community as well
Pop into the galleries downtown and look for Ilana Pichon's mural
which was created in collaboration with local schoolchildren
If you find yourself in the area in late July
you can't miss Le Festival des Arts de Saint-Sauveur
an incredible celebration of dance and music
Accommodation options cater to various preferences
with the luxurious Manoir Saint-Sauveur providing a spa-like stay and expertly curated local outings
Le Petit Clocher Gîte Touristique B&B provides a welcoming atmosphere
As one of the oldest settlements in North America
downtown Tadoussac is filled with historic buildings
including the Little Chapel (the oldest wooden church in North America)
the hotel has impeccable views of the bay and is an excellent place to book a stay
especially during the Festival de la Chanson de Tadoussac
This lively four-day summer festival transforms the town into a hot spot for music performers and enthusiasts
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy Brome Lake's public beach (Douglass Beach)
including cross-country skiing at Douglass Beach and downhill skiing at the Knowlton Ski Trail
Knowlton is perfectly situated on the Brome-Missisquoi's Wine Route
Stop by Leon Courville Vineyard for a tour and tasting before settling into a room at Auberge Knowlton
The hotel has been serving the area since 1849 and is an ideal spot to unwind in the center of town
Saint-Jean-Port-Joli is a quaint village just east of Quebec City on the south shore of the St
it boasts a rich tradition of wood sculpture
with numerous galleries and workshops showcasing local artisans' talents
features seven artists' studios with glass partitions
inviting visitors to observe the creative process
Saint-Jean-Port-Joli is surrounded by natural beauty
Borrow a free bike from Les Jolis Vélos Créatifs and cycle along the riverfront
Don't miss the incredible sunsets at Parc Nautique Saint-Jean-Port-Joli or the sweeping waterfront vistas and wooden sculptures at Parc des Trois-Bérets
where the dramatic ebb and flow of the tide unveils striking tidal flats
a fascinating museum dedicated to preserving the region's oral histories and cultural narratives
Saint-Jean-Port-Joli hosts several exciting annual festivals
If you can book a cozy B&B stay at L'Auberge La Belle Époque during one of these high times
is a picturesque town surrounded by rolling hills
The cobblestone streets of this pedestrian-favoring locale are lined with rustic architecture
Baie-Saint-Paul is famous for being the birthplace of Cirque du Soleil in the early 1980s
and it continues to celebrate creativity through events like the Symposium of Modern Art held every August at the Musée d'art Contemporain
Baie-Saint-Paul is a destination for food lovers
Indulge in delicious pastries at Boulangerie à Chacun Son Pain or savor locally made cider at Cidrerie Vergers Pedneault
For some of the best fondue you could possibly imagine
After a day spent enjoying art and cuisine
This cozy inn provides a welcoming atmosphere and comfortable accommodations
ideal for recharging before hitting the slopes at Le Massif Ski Resort
Île d'Orléans is a breathtaking island on the St
Lawrence River that is easily accessible by car or shuttle from Quebec City
The island only takes about an hour to drive around
and it's absolutely bursting with French heritage and ancestral homes dating back to the 17th century
a historic residence-turned-museum that shares the stories of the island's founding families
there's 18th century Manoir Mauvide-Genest
one of Québec's last-standing seigneurial homes
La Seigneurie de l'Île d'Orléans is always worth a visit with its themed gardens
an indoor-outdoor museum that provides a peek into the important role that traditional wooden shipbuilding played in the island's development
The island is also home to incredible edible opportunities
Savor maple syrup (and learn how to make it!) at Érablière Richard Boily
indulge in a vineyard tour and wine tasting Vignoble Isle de Bacchus
or consider a cheese tasting at Fromages de l'Isle d'Orléans
summer camping at Camping de la Pointe provides easy access to the river
Auberge dans les bras de Morphee is an excellent option
Percé, located on the shores of the Gulf of St. Lawrence on the Gaspé Peninsula, is a sweet little town named after the iconic Perce Rock (Rocher Percé)
sculpted by the sea into an awe-inspiring arch
Take a leisurely stroll on the Promenade de Percé for some of the best views
or get a closer look on a boat ride out to the nearby Bonaventure Island via Les croisières Julien Cloutier Inc
Bonaventure Island is just off the coast and has ample hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities
Watch as the seals and whales frolic in the ocean while an impressive colony of Gannet birds look for their next meal
Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the Chemin du Roy trail
which takes you past various remnants of early colonial settlements
Percé UNESCO Global Geopark has some gorgeous trails and the famed Tektonic
you can learn about the area's geological history and conquer your fear of heights on a 200-meter suspended platform
Cultural attractions in the town include the Musée le Chafaud
an architectural marvel built in 1903 using local stones
Check into a cozy room at Chez Rose Belaid
or consider an evening in a sophisticated yurt at Domaine Renard
Perched on the shores of Lake Memphremagog
Magog is an adorable town with a lively atmosphere packed with opportunities for outdoor play and family fun
Poke your nose into the cute shops and ma and pa eateries downtown and stroll the tranquil lakeside walking paths and beaches at Parc de la Baie-de-Magog
you'll find an ice skating trail that runs 2.8km all the way to Pointe Merry
where the Fête des Neiges de Magog is held every February
This festival is a celebration of all things winter and includes a myriad of family-friendly activities
There's no shortage of natural beauty around
Snowshoeing enthusiasts will love the trails through the marshes at Rivière-aux-Cerises
Parc National du Mont-Orford presents a variety of activities year-round
Magog is home to the historic Maison Merry
where you can learn about the fascinating life of Ralph Merry III
Quartier des Marinas has lovely accommodations on the water
perfect for a memorable stay in this enchanting town
Chelsea, located just a few miles from Ottawa in Canada's National Capital Region
Adventurers can go underground at Lusk Cave
or climb the Luskville Fire Tower for breathtaking views
Relax on one of the three beaches at Philippe Lake in warmer weather
Gatineau Park is also home to intriguing historical landmarks
The Carbide Willson Ruins are remnants of an industrial plant that extracted calcium carbide from limestone
Another notable site is the Mackenzie King Estate
a previous retreat for Canada's longest-serving Prime Minister
featuring lovely gardens and a collection of his belongings
Wine lovers can tour Le Vignoble de Chelsea for tastings and brunch at the vineyard's eatery
and invigorating hot and cold therapy rituals
To complete your stay in this unmissable town
consider lodging at the cozy Auberge Tom B&B on the lake
The diverse regions of Quebec offer travelers a wealth of experiences for adventure
From the culinary delights of Île d'Orléans to the breathtaking landscapes of Percé and the lively atmosphere of Magog
each destination presents unique opportunities to relish the area's natural beauty and rich heritage
Quebec's charming towns promise unforgettable memories
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SHORTS Canada / Europe
by Davide Abbatescianni
24/03/2025 - The Québec-based gathering has rewarded six further short-film productions with European involvement
The 29th edition of Regard – the Saguenay International Short Film Festival (19-23 March) was brought to a close on Sunday morning with the announcement of this year’s award winners
After screening more than 200 shorts and hosting over 450 guests
the festival’s five juries handed out 15 main awards and four Special Mentions to filmmakers from across the globe
nearly 130,000 Canadian dollars’ (approximately €84,000) worth of cash prizes and services were distributed
Sunday afternoon saw special screenings of the winning films at Studio Desjardins at the CEM
offering audiences a final chance to enjoy this year’s highlights during the “Palmarès” sessions
The Official Competition jury – comprising actress Juliette Gariépy, director Rafaël Ouellet, sound designer Olivier Calvert, director-producer-cinematographer Miryam Charles and US programmer Madison Egan – bestowed five awards upon the victors. The Grand Prize, presented by MUBI
went to Shadows by Rand Beiruty (France/Jordan)
The jury praised the film for its powerful portrayal of a teenager’s experience with forced marriage and domestic violence
commending the sensitive use of animation to protect the protagonist’s identity while amplifying her resilience
presented by Université du Québec à Chicoutimi and Grandé Studios
was awarded to Orbites by Sarah Seené (Canada)
for its poetic and tactile exploration of visual perception and inner hope
What If They Bomb Here Tonight by Samir Syriani (Lebanon) took home the Jury Prize
while the Best Animation Short Film Award went to Sans voix by Samuel Patthey (Switzerland)
The jury also singled out Who Loves the Sun by Arshia Shakiba (Canada) as Best Documentary Short Film
presented to a Canadian filmmaker with a work in competition
the AQCC Quebec Critics’ Award went to O by Rúnar Rúnarsson (Iceland/Sweden)
with a Special Mention for Percebes by Laura Gonçalves and Alexandra Ramires (Portugal/France)
other European winners include The Eating of an Orange by May Kindred-Boothby (UK)
in receipt of the Short & Queer Award; Game Rules by Christian Zetterberg (Sweden)
which scooped the Award for Best Youth Short Film; and a Special Mention which went to Los Carpinchos by Soderguit Alfredo (France/Chile/Uruguay)
Here is the full list of this year’s award winners:
Grand PrizeShadows – Rand Beiruty (France/Jordan)
Canadian Grand PrizeOrbites – Sarah Seené (Canada)
Jury PrizeWhat If They Bomb Here Tonight – Samir Syriani (Lebanon)
Best Animation Short FilmSans voix – Samuel Patthey (Switzerland)
Best Documentary Short FilmWho Loves the Sun – Arshia Shakiba (Canada)
FIPRESCI International Critics’ PrizeOrbites – Sarah Seené
AQCC Quebec Critics’ AwardO – Rúnar Rúnarsson (Iceland/Sweden)Special MentionPercebes – Laura Gonçalves
Alanis-Obomsawin PrizeDipped in Black – Derik Lynch
Shoot No Matter What AwardMa sœur – Rosalie Pelletier (Canada)Special MentionCher Zoscar – Sarah Toussaint-Léveillé (Canada)
Americana AwardServicio necrológico para usted – María Salafranca (Cuba)
Philippe-Belley AwardInterurbain – Marc-Olivier Huard (Québec/Canada)
Short & Queer AwardThe Eating of an Orange – May Kindred-Boothby (UK)Special MentionMuses – Simon Vermeulen (Canada)
Best Youth Short FilmGame Rules – Christian Zetterberg (Sweden)Special MentionLos Carpinchos – Soderguit Alfredo (France/Chile/Uruguay)
Official CompetitionLe punk de Natashquan – Nicolas Lachapelle (Canada)
Focus CompetitionLe patenteux – Maude Petel-Légaré (Canada)
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25/04/2025Shorts – Cannes 2025
Maren Ade to chair the Short Film Palme d’Or and La Cinef jury
14/04/2025Stockfish 2025 – Awards
Stockfish celebrates Floria Sigismondi, Dóra Einars and the short film In Rhythm
17/02/2025Berlinale 2025
Berlinale Shorts celebrates a medium and laments the modern world
10/02/2025Shorts – France
The Clermont-Ferrand International Short Film Festival unveils its winners
31/01/2025Sundance 2025 – Awards
European short films fly high at Sundance
14/01/2025Berlinale 2025
Berlinale Shorts invites us “To Be in This World”
Subscribe to our newsletter to receive the most important daily or weekly news on European cinema
Cannes 2025 Marché du Film
AFCI runs its second annual Global Film Commission Network Summit at Marché du Film
Festivals / Awards Czech Republic
Czech Republic’s Anifilm goes sci-fi
Distribution / Releases / Exhibitors Europe
European Arthouse Cinema Day set to return on 23 November
Cannes 2025 Marché du Film
Indie Sales presents a three-star line-up at Cannes
HOFF 2025
The Shadow and U Are the Universe win at Estonia’s Haapsalu Horror and Fantasy Film Festival
Crossing Europe 2025 Awards
The New Year That Never Came and The Flats crowned at Crossing Europe
Cannes 2025 Marché du Film
Be For Films to sell Love Me Tender in Cannes
Cannes 2025/Sponsored
Latvia set to shine bright at Cannes, led by Sergei Loznitsa’s competition entry Two Prosecutors
Las Palmas 2025 MECAS/Awards
Manuel Muñoz Rivas and Joana Carro win awards at the eighth MECAS
Cannes 2025 Marché du Film
Playtime to present some high-impact and entrancing trump cards at Cannes
Production / Funding Italy
Shooting begins on Walter Fasano’s Nino, a portrait of scoring maestro Nino Rota
goEast 2025
Review: My Magical World
Market TrendsFOCUSA busy spring festival season awaits the European film industry. Cineuropa will continue to keep its readers up to date with the latest news and market insights, covering the buzziest events, including Cannes, Kraków, Karlovy Vary, Tribeca, Hot Docs, Annecy, Brussels, Munich and many others
Distribution, Exhibition and Streaming – 02/05/2025Slovak crime-thriller Černák becomes the highest-grossing film in domestic cinemasThe second film in the saga about a local mafia boss, directed by Jakub Króner, outgrossed its first part, which dominated Slovak cinemas last year
Animation – 30/04/2025Mirko Goran Marijanac • Media sales executive, DeAPlaneta EntertainmentDuring our chat, the exec shared key insights from this year’s Cartoon Next and touched on the current climate for the animation sector
Jaśmina Wójcik • Director of King Matt the First
The Polish director discusses her approach to taking on a 1920s children’s literary classic in an unexpected way
Želimir Žilnik • Director of Eighty Plus
The Serbian director discusses his deep suspicion of ideologies in relation to his irresistibly charming latest feature, which follows a man whose life spans three political systems
Paulina Jaroszewicz • Distribution and marketing manager, New Horizons Association
Cineuropa sat down with the Polish distributor to discuss her company’s strategy as well as the connection between its distribution line-up and BNP Paribas New Horizons Festival’s programme
Lorcan Finnegan • Director of The Surfer
The Irish filmmaker discusses his mystery-thriller, how he created the character with Nicolas Cage and his approach to the use of colours in the film
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