Contract 400119680 ESTABLISHED • MAY 1975 VOLUME 46 / NO 12, MARCH 25, 2020 $1.50 (Tax included) COVID-19: Gaspé hospitals say they are ready

screened in our premises,” hospital will be followed Nelson Sergerie said Ms. Méthot. closely. "They will be at The time delays for re- home with the treatment they GASPÉ - The CISSS de la ceiving the results of these need to recover properly," Gaspésie is taking the neces- tests will also be reduced. says Dr. Bonnier Viger. sary measures in preparation Currently, the average is four for patients with coronavirus. days, but Quebec has opened Back in service Sixty-four additional beds are clinics across the province. ready in hospitals in the The samples from the Gaspé In addition, 12 retired Gaspé to cope with covid-19. will be processed in Ri- nurses have returned to serv- Currently there are 25 beds mouski to speed up the pro- ice and 16 other people have available in Maria, 16 in cessing. indicated their interest in re- Gaspé, and 13 in Chandler turning. while in Sainte-Anne-des- Necessary material “There is really great soli- Monts there are 10. darity. People who are retired All elective surgeries, that Health authorities assure are calling us. We even re- is non-emergency surgeries, that all the equipment neces- ceived names of teachers have been cancelled until fur- sary to deal with the crisis since the schools are stopped ther notice, and breast cancer will be made available. For to give their availability,” clinics have suffered the same example, the network has 42 says the President and CEO, fate. No appointments will be respirators: 11 are available in Chantal Duguay. made. Maria and Chandler and 10 While people returning "There is work being done are in Gaspé and Sainte- from trips and seniors are not with all the staff to assess the Dr. Yv Bonnier Viger, Director of Public Health Anne-des-Monts. Orders respecting all of Quebec's in- patients currently hospital- have been placed to increase structions, Dr. Bonnier Viger ized. Can we do anything but Photo: N. Sergerie the number. reminds people to take the keep them in hospital, in par- telephone services are being Viger, is still expecting cases The CISSS estimates that up disease seriously. ticular to protect them and at strengthened. in the region. to 15% of all people who will "It is only on this condi- the same time allow people On March 20 as Spec was Four screening clinics be affected by the disease will tion that we will succeed in with covid-19 to be hospital- going to press, no cases had were active in hospitals, but need to be hospitalized. Ex- winning this battle. Most peo- ized?" says assistant director been listed in the Gaspé re- they have been relocated. treme cases could be treated ple understand this well. The Johanne Méthot. gion, but the Director of Pub- "We have trailers outside. in Quebec or Montreal. prevention messages must be Homecare, front-line and lic Health, Dr. Yv Bonnier People will no longer be Those who are not in the repeated. " CORONAVIRUS: Breakdown of the facilities and services available to Gaspesians

Gilles Gagné pitals. Mobile units will be in- tated five days before the is- Gaspé Peninsula and Mag- So far, 80 samples of bod- stalled on hospital grounds, suance of a result, positive or dalen Islands. As of March 19, ily substance from Gaspesians Number of beds earmarked for that procedure. Until then, negative. The rising number at 2:30 p.m., 81 samples were and Magdalen Islanders have for coronavirus patients in the samples will be taken from ve- of laboratories able to make sent to the eight laboratories been sent for an analysis to Maria, Chandler, Gaspé and hicles in Chandler and Gaspé, those analysis in Quebec has of the province and the results one of the Quebec City and Sainte-Anne-des-Monts hos- and inside the hospital in a since reduced that waiting of 43 tests were available, all Montreal laboratories; 71 tests pitals: 64 for the region. designated area for the people time to four days. negative. The results of 38 have been negative and nine Number of intensive care going to Maria and Sainte- There is no laboratory lo- tests were still unknown as of test results are unknown, as of beds earmarked for coron- Anne-des-Monts. cated east of Quebec City au- March 19. March 20 at 2 p.m. avirus patients: 16 in the re- According to Dr. Iv Bon- thorized to carry out such gion (usually four per nier Viger, director of the analysis, despite a regular re- Important information for hospital). Gaspé Peninsula Public quest to that effect expressed Number of respirators per Health Board, between 10 and by the interim leader of the clients of The Gaspé Spec hospital as of March 19: (total 15% of the people contracting Parti Québécois, Pascal for the region: 42) Maria: 11; the coronavirus will have to be Bérubé. Doctor Bonnier-Viger Although the office is currently closed, staff is working Chandler: 11; Gaspé: 10; hospitalized. They will not be has heard that such a labora- from home in order to continue to provide you with im- Sainte-Anne-des-Monts: 10 systematically sent to the in- tory could be set up in Ri- portant information. Effective Friday, March tensive care unit. Their state mouski but there was no time 20, those needing to produce a will determine the place where frame or confirmation avail- - Daily updates and links regarding COVID-19 can be sample for analysis for the they will be treated. able as of March 19. found on our website at thegaspespec.com covid-19 will have to do so Up until March 18, a sam- Quebec’s Department of without entering any of the ple taken from a Gaspesian Health has released the num- - Staff can be reached at [email protected] or by Maria, Chandler, Gaspé and and sent to a Quebec City or ber of coronavirus detection inboxing The Gaspé Spec on facebook Sainte-Anne-des-Monts hos- Montreal laboratory necessi- tests carried out so far in the How are Gaspesian businesses reacting to the coronavirus? This is how the Gaspésie Railway Society is coping

Gilles Gagné operations, if it is required,” explains the Gaspésie Rail- NEW RICHMOND – The way Society director general, coronavirus is forcing busi- Luc Lévesque. nesses to change the way they The employees who were operate and this holds true for following courses have the companies based on the adopted distance training Gaspé Peninsula. The exam- methods, with computers and ple of the Gaspésie Railway software enabling them to do Society illustrates the meas- so. The employees who were ures recommended by the supposed to leave for vacation Public Health Board of the re- had to cancel them, “includ- gion. ing mine,” points out Mr. “The management staff is Lévesque. working from home, except A list of qualified employ- for the accounting clerk, who ees able to fill in for col- Photo: G. Gagné is alone at the office. We have leagues who could become reduced the number of em- sick was also prepared. ployees per unit of equip- “So far, only one em- ment. For example, we have ployee has pulled out of work only one employee on our for preventive reasons but it is The Gaspésie Railway Society has implemented a set of measures to insure the health of its snowplow units instead of because of influenza,” adds staff. two. We have also adopted a Mr. Lévesque. ees on its payroll. Its activities Listuguj blockade, between not hampered the traffic of the contingency plan for an even- The Gaspésie Railway So- were slowed down and then February 10 and March 5. Gaspésie Railway Society so tual occurrence of minimal ciety has 34 regular employ- paralyzed during the 25-day The coronavirus crisis has far, mentions Luc Lévesque.

“Respect the quarantine!” RéGIM commuter services maintained over says the mayor of Gaspé main lines, adapted transport greatly reduced Gilles Gagné Nelson Sergerie CARLETON – The Régie intermunicipale de transport de la Gaspésie et des Îles-de-la-Madeleine GASPÉ - The mayor of Gaspé, Daniel Côté, is criticizing the (RéGIM) is maintaining its commuter services but is applying some restrictions in order to limit the fact that people returning from travel are not respecting quaran- propagation of the covid-19 virus. tine instructions. The other regular routes are being maintained, however, the RéGIM management is asking its In a message to his citizens posted on social networks on riders to use its services only for essential reasons, such as grocery shopping, going to work or to March 17, related to the coronavirus, the mayor was clear, "If travel for health services. you came back from a trip on March 12 or after the 12, you Users of the service should wash their hands, avoid touching their faces, cough or sneeze into should be in quarantine for 14 days. So, you stay at home and their arm, and stay home if they have cold or flu symptoms. The administrative offices of the have someone else do your shopping for you and deliver it to RéGIM in Carleton, Bonaventure, and Sainte-Anne-des-Monts are now closed to the public. Cus- your front porch. You don't go to shops or in public. It’s as clear tomer service is maintained and easy to reach by calling 1 877-521-0841, extension 0. as that." The adapted transport service for handicapped people has been reduced by 95% in the Bay of The elected official insisted that people could be carrying the Chaleur, Haute-Gaspésie and Estran (Grande-Vallée, to Cloridorme) areas, as a result of the meas- virus without knowing it. The act of quarantine is to avoid any ures implemented by the Quebec Government. The small part that is being maintained is consid- contamination. ered essential for health and work purposes. The mayor contacted a few industrialists in the town who as- sured him that they had strict measures in place for those who re- turned from a stay abroad. Côté said, however, that he had no power to act against the A larger gymnasium for recalcitrant. “I do not manage the private sector or public health. Grand River Elementary School Neither I nor the police have the power of coercion to confine people to quarantine. There's no point in calling 1-877 to report Nelson Sergerie people; this line is an information line. Neither the police, nor GRANDE-RIVIÈRE - The Grand River Bon-Pasteur school gymnasium project will be going Public Health, nor I can force people to respect quarantine... but ahead, but at a larger size. we can try to convince them," states Mr. Côté The René-Lévesque School Board is launching a call for tenders for the professional services of an architect and engineer for this enhanced project valued at $5.5 million. Rather than a 12 x 18 metre gymnasium at an estimated cost of $3.7 million, the infrastructure New Richmond is preparing will instead be 18 x 24 metres. The school board emphasizes that the project will meet the needs of the municipality and the plan to provide essential services mayor, Gino Cyr, had requested a revised project to meet those needs. Nelson Sergerie "Often, the ARSEQ (Est-du-Québec regional sports association) competes. In the Rocher-Percé sector, we could not hold competitions because we did not have the necessary infrastructures. It New Richmond is working on a continuity plan to provide es- will be very interesting for the municipality of Grand River as well as for the MRC,” says Mr. Cyr. sential services to citizens in the wake of covid-19. The Town wants to ensure its citizens that it has the resources required to continue managing the water, sewer and snow removal systems. AVAILABLE TREATMENTS "We have people returning from trips who have been quar- Pro Pieds de la Baie Health Checkup / Thick nails antined. We want to make sure that if the disease arrives, that Nail maintenance / Corns / Calluses we are able to cope with it to provide services," says the mayor, Roxanne Major N.D. Nails with fungus or mushrooms Éric Dubé. Ingrown toenails / Plantar warts Discussions are being held with surrounding municipalities Foot Care Technician Preventive care for diabetics to help each other if basic services become at risk. Service in the comfort of your own home. Massage on certain reflexology points "We have several municipalities that have only one resource 418-752-3670 Insurance receipts available person dedicated to this work. If that person falls ill, is there any NEWPORT TO NEW RICHMOND Appointment only / Bilingual service possibility of mutual assistance to ensure the maintenance of es- Free advice with every visit! Gift certificates are available sential services," says the mayor.

Page 2, March 25, 2020 - Spec Police report

Fisheries and Oceans Canada has released a list of offenders fined in recent months for various offences under the Fisheries Act. Five of them are based in the Gaspé Peninsula. René Durette, of New Richmond, was fined $500 for having taken and kept, during the same day, a quantity of more than 300 clams, thus contravening to the recreational fishery rules pertain- ing to soft shell clam harvesting. He was also fined $500 for hav- ing wasted clams suitable for human consumption, which falls under the same softshell clam harvesting rules. Pierre Fortin, of Rivière-au-Renard, paid a fine of $4,300 for having been found in possession of snow crab less than 95 mil- limetres wide, which is not permitted under the snow crab fish- ing rules. Pierrot English, of Gaspé, was fined $1,000 for having used The group of students who were in France. or having on board, the boat fishing nets with a mesh size of less than 152 millimetres, thus contravening to the Greenland halibut Photo: Cégep de la Gaspésie et des Îles facebook fishing regulation. The gear initially seized was confiscated per- manently. Students have returned home Gilles Chapados, of Gascons, was fined $1,000 for having been found in possession of a female lobster with eggs attached, Nelson Sergie which contravenes to the lobster fishing rules. GASPÉ - All the students from Cégep de la Gaspésie and des Îles who were outside the country Ghislain Roberge, of Bonaventure, was fined $1,000 for har- have returned to Quebec. vesting shellfish in a closed area which is forbidden in the recre- A group of 11 students: six from Carleton-sur-Mer and five from the Magdalen Islands, along ational softshell clam digging rules. The items seized upon the with two teachers, who were in France, returned on March 15. A second group of seven students intervention of the wardens were confiscated permanently and and two teachers in Buenos Aires, Argentina, who were scheduled to return on March 21, re- he will have to respect a three-year ban on being in any area turned on March 18. All the students were able to return together, on the same flights. Some left where shellfish harvesting takes places, whether in open or the group during a stopover in Quebec due to the suspension of classes. The three remaining stu- closed areas. dents landed in Gaspé on March 19. Two other students, who were in Switzerland and in France, ***** are also back in Canada. The CEGEP ensured their repatriation and coordinated their return as soon as government in- Samuel Barriault-Saint-Pierre, 22, from Sainte-Anne-des-Monts, structions were given on March 12. was arrested on March 11 shortly after a drug bust conducted by “We feared that the borders would close. We managed to get plane tickets before this an- Sûreté du Québec officers in an apartment building revealed a nouncement. It is certain that there was less and less space. We had put all our teams to work to significant quantity of methamphetamine. The suspect was ar- have plans A, B and C. It is never simple but since it didn't take us long to get started, we still rested near the apartment building. He appeared in court the fol- succeeded quite early on when people were going to come back,” says the director, Yolaine Ar- lowing day to face a charge of drug possession for the purpose seneau. To her knowledge, the airfares were "reasonable", given the circumstances. of trafficking. Additional charges could be laid soon since the in- The educational institution ensured that the instructions for these students were followed. vestigation is still ongoing. About 2,500 methamphetamine pills, "We made sure to pass on the recommendations of public health regarding the measures to be various objects used in drug trafficking, a prohibited firearm and taken in the face of quarantine," added the director. a certain quantity of contraband cigarettes were seized during the drug bust. Samuel Barriault-Saint-Pierre was already targeted by a Cap-des-Rosiers lighthouse: warrant with regards to a previous file when he was arrested. Status quo for Diane Lebouthillier Holy week Nelson Sergerie that I clearly announced dur- services cancelled ing the campaign remain the Nelson Sergerie GASPÉ - While the commu- same." GASPÉ – On March 19, the Catholic Church of Gaspé can- nity is calling for its integra- The lighthouse is a stone's celled all of the activities surrounding Holy Week, which is fast tion into Forillon Park, throw from the boundaries of approaching. Minister Diane Lebouthillier Forillon Park. Ironically, the This is one of the measures that applies because of the coro- refuses to take a position on park's administrative team navirus pandemic. the Cap-des-Rosiers light- manages that of Pointe-au- In a new directive sent to all members of the churches on house. Père, 369 kilometers from the Gaspé and Magdalen Islands, Mgr Gaétan Proulx mentions Several stakeholders, in- Cap-des-Rosiers. the importance of following the instructions of civil authorities. cluding Patrimoine Gaspésie, "Following the consultation meeting that I had with the took advantage of the consul- Gaspé still claims Bishop's office today (NDLD: March 18), I bring to your at- tation of the management plan its integration tention certain decisions that will seriously affect our Easter cel- for the next 10 years for Foril- ebrations," writes Bishop Proulx in a note. lon Park to make this request. In a brief on Forillon's con- Photo: N. Sergerie N. Photo: The Palm Sunday celebration is cancelled, as are the com- Questioned several times sultation plan, Gaspé high- munity celebrations of Forgiveness and those of Holy Thurs- on this issue in the past on this lights the situation of the Diane Lebouthillier day, Good Friday, Holy Saturday and Easter Sunday Mass. issue, the member for Pointe-au-Père lighthouse. Personal and private prayer meetings with priests are still pos- Gaspésie-Îles-de-la-Made- The Town writes that the The Town believes that it sible. leine recalls her commitments lighthouse is "left in the or- will take a strong political All other celebrations had already been cancelled with rare during the last election cam- phanage by another federal willingness. exceptions, which included baptisms, except where the child paign and no question of entity that has very little to The brief emphasizes that was in danger of death; weddings and funerals. going further. preserve it," namely Fisheries the lighthouse was recognized Priests over 70 are not available to provide pastoral service "My priority is that the and Oceans Canada. as a heritage monument by or visit the sick, but the younger priests can take over with the lighthouse remains open; that Gaspé suggests moving the Pierre-Elliott Trudeau in 1974. necessary security measures. we have students and that the park's border a few tens of me- For the town, "it is the role of The impact on the parishes will be significant. Many are wor- lighthouse is safe and that ters "which could be benefi- Parks Canada to protect and ried about the drop in their income. The Diocese is monitoring tourists can visit it. It’s an cial for the preservation of the present the country's heritage the situation closely. evolving process but my goals tallest lighthouse in Canada." properties."

Page 3, March 25, 2020 - Spec Editorial page

ements, the fear of the virus, the uncertainty stem- especially since the beginning of the 20th century. ming from the strength and duration of the covid- Without having to believe in a message “sent” by Commentary 19 propagation and the decision made by most Mother Earth regarding covid-19, it is more than Gilles Gagné governments to stop social and economic activi- the right time to reflect on the way our society ties in order to reduce or nullify that propagation. functions or doesn’t function. As hundreds of millions of citizens are confined We are currently fighting an invisible enemy, a to their homes, finding something to do becomes virus that requires a microscope to be seen. We a preoccupation for a lot of people. are, by and large, deploying considerable means It would consequently be interesting if some to overcome that enemy. What will we learn people took the time to reflect on the future. There are visible signs of another disaster that Boucar Diouf is a well-known Quebec hu- has slowly begun to affect nature and human be- from the mourist and columnist. He is also a science geek. ings. The pollution created by our overconsump- He holds a doctorate in oceanography. A native of tion is way more conspicuous than the current crisis? Senegal who made his superior studies in Que- coronavirus will ever be, concretely and figura- The coronavirus pandemic will leave lasting bec, he has an original, astute and practical way tively. The environmental damage triggered by marks on this era. We don’t know how many peo- to look at things. that overconsumption is also evident, through a ple will die of covid-19 over the next weeks or Like other oceanographers, he knows that in plummeting quality of air, a plunging water quality, months and we certainly hope that it will be the the sea, the strongest viruses usually “attack” or downgrading ecosystems and a soon-to-be re- lowest number possible. This kind of worldwide concentrate on the strongest predators as if, over duced life expectancy for living animals, including shock is, nevertheless, not comparable to any- hundreds of millions of years of life, nature has human beings. Yet we hardly move when we face thing experienced over the last century. settled for that way of keeping things in balance. evidence that has been visible for decades now. It will likely kill less people than World War II Over the history of life on our planet, human Beside the good health of the population, our but that conflict did not slow down the overall beings arrived late. If we had to transpose the governments are currently obsessed with the way economy like the coronavirus did in less than two four-billion-year existence of the planet to a year, the economy will be relaunched once the crisis is short weeks. Between 1939 and 1945, the econ- we could say that the homo sapien species, us, over. It is normal in a way, but it is not reassuring omy of some countries, like Canada, experienced arrived on December 31, at 11 hours, 59 minutes as well. Will we embark on the same consumption a boom because, except at sea, there was no and 56 seconds p.m. In other words, we arrived driven pace once the coronavirus propagation will open war on the continent and those countries four seconds before the end of the year, that end diminish or end? had to make up for destroyed facilities. That is not of the year being now. Considering the mobilization capacity, or eco- counting the production of weapons. In four seconds, over a whole year, human be- nomic demobilization capacity, shown by human Now, the worldwide economy, so entrenched ings have created chaos on the planet. Thank you beings since about March 12, we have collectively in globalization, is experiencing a downturn every- for reminding us, Mr. Diouf. proven that a switch in the way our world can where, more than during the stock market We will likely need between three and four adapt to a crisis is possible. crashes in 1987 and 2008. planets, maybe more, depending on the experts, It is relatively easy to prove that the state of our That economic slowdown is rooted in three el- to keep consuming the way we have been doing, nature is hurt, that the cause of the hurting comes from human behaviour. If the coming weeks are used to reflect and tell our leaders that the environment has to be taken care of concretely, the coronavirus pandemic will not have been a total disaster. Overall, North American politicians have failed miserably over the last decades in environmental matters. They are not leaders in that field. The Are you in self isolation? leadership will have to come from elsewhere, from the public. Will it be the right time? Are you in quarantine after a trip abroad?

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THEGASPESPEC.COM JOURNALISTS: Nelson Sergerie Diane Skinner CONTRIBUTORS: Cynthia Dow, 208-B Gérard D. Levesque Jeanie LeLacheur New Carlisle, Que. Publisher: News Editor: Office Manager G0C 1Z0 Penny MacWhirter Gilles Gagné Joan Imhoff Tel: 418-752-5400 [email protected] SPEC welcomes letters to the editor on subjects relevant to topics covered by the paper. Letters must be kept within 300 words or less and may be edited for clarity or to remove any slanderous, sexist, BOARD OF DIRECTORS: thegaspéspec.com racist or homophobic statements. We reserve the right to reject any letters. Opinions or letters pub- President: Roger Wise lished do not necessarily reflect the editorial policies or beliefs of this newspaper. All letters must bear Vice-President: Elaine Sexton SPEC OFFICE HOURS: the handwritten signature of the writer and include the address and number(s) for verification purposes. Treasurer: Ray Venables Mon. to Fri: 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Address & phone number will not be printed.). The Publisher shall not be liable for slight changes Secretary: Maria Chatterton or typographical errors that do not lessen the value of an advertisement. The Publisher's liability Directors: Hayden Sams, (Taxes included) for other errors or omissions in connection with any advertisement is strictly limited to publica- 1-year (paper or digital): $46 tion of the advertisement in any subsequent issue or the refund of any monies paid for the adver- Bonita Annett, Bethany Paetkau, 6-months (paper or digital): $25 tisement. Patricia Ste-Croix Annett Outside Canada: Published every Wednesday by: 1-year paper $165 digital: $46 We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada. We acknowledge special funding from the Ministère de la Culture et des Communications. Les Publications de la Côte Inc. (Sea-Coast Publications Inc.)

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Page 4, March 25, 2020 - Spec Evolution of foreign workers file Reflections Gilles Gagné recruited for this year have a mainly in the province’s working permit “but it is a farms. After the March 16 temporary one. It is not a visa bad news, Bill Sheehan by The week started with given to people who can stay asked Quebec’s Minister of many doubts and concerns for years. I take it that Minis- Agriculture, Fisheries and Diane Skinner Flowers ter André Lamontagne will Food, André Lamontagne, to On March 17, Bill Sheehan, try to check if there is some talk to the federal authorities. vice-president of the E. flexibility that can be ob- “The fish processing School’s Out! Now What? Gagnon et Fils crab and lob- tained from the federal au- plants of the Gaspé Penin- ster processing plant in thorities,” explains Mr. sula, the Magdalen Islands A month ago, we never could have foreseen the extent to how Sainte-Thérèse-de-Gaspé, Sheehan. and the North Shore will need quickly the response to COVID-19 has unfolded. One of the big thought there was still a slim The office of André Lam- between 250 and 300 foreign but critically important moves was to close schools and daycares. chance the 55 Mexican work- ontagne has not returned workers this year. We also Parents are finding the best way to be with their children all day, ers he had recruited for 2020 SPEC’s call in order to clar- know that the fishing industry every day for the near future. The trick might be to keep them would be able to join his ify the magnitude of the sup- of New Brunswick will need busy. Of course, they need down time or free play, but you do workforce. port that can be provided to 2,000 of those workers for the want them to feel a sense of purpose – and continue their learn- François Ducharme, direc- the fish processing plants and season. The pressure on the ing. Please do not allow them to keep their pyjamas on all day. tor of international recruit- the possibility of convincing federal government came Getting dressed and ready for the day ahead is a routine they ment and integration for the federal government to from there as well. In certain should still follow. Dotemtex, a firm specialized show some flexibility regard- New Brunswick processing How that learning will look at home will be different than in the hiring of foreign work- ing foreign workers. plants, the proportion of for- their normal school day. However, parents have so much that ers, has analyzed the latest eign labour reaches 50% of they can teach their children. It may be helpful to divide the day regulations decreed by the As the week comes to an the workforce,” says Mr. into two related yet different approaches to learning. The first is federal government and con- end owners of fish Sheehan. more traditional school learning, such as reading, writing, math cludes that “every foreign cit- processing plants are told At the E. Gagnon et Fils and science. The second is an opportunity to teach your children izen wanting to take an foreign workers will be plant in Sainte-Thérèse-de- life skills appropriate to their age. Don’t forget to make sure they international flight and who allowed to come Gaspé, 55 foreign workers get outdoor time and physical exercise. No playdates, no parties. has lived outside Canada over are expected to arrive for Social distancing is one of the key ways to slow down the spread the last 14 days,” will not be Gaspesian fish processing April 2. of COVID-19. allowed to board the plane. plant owners who were wor- “They will have to follow Traditional school type learning can be informal too. It can “So it is negative. We are ried about the border closure a quarantine. They will be include some reading, some writing and some math and science. discussing it but so far, it is decreed by Prime Minister available for work 14 days All of these are readily available online. There is a huge number nay,” said Bill Sheehan on Justin Trudeau on March 16 later, so on the 16. It is not of websites that offer worksheets. If you have a workbook at March 17. He is also presi- were relieved to learn two ideal but it is the rule and it your children’s level have them do a few pages daily in that work- dent of AQIP, the Association days later that an agreement will be followed. It is a year book. You can read to your children. Start a novel with them de- Charlotte’s Web, The Twits, Anne of Québécoise de l’industrie de between the provincial gov- of constraints,” underlines pending on age that may include Green Gables and for older children The Hatchet. la pêche, the organization re- ernments and the federal gov- Bill Sheehan. grouping the province’s fish ernment will allow temporary He does not rule out trying Here are a few websites to get you started: processing companies. Dis- seasonal labourers to enter to bring the workers earlier in turtlediary.com, thecolor.com, funfonix.com, freechildrensto- cussions are taking place be- the country. order to start the quarantine ries.com, spellingtraining.com, funbrain.com, rockalingua.com, tween Mr. Sheehan and That border closure came before the end of March. sightreadingfactory.com, sciencespot.net/Pages/ Quebec’s Department of into force on March 18, but The E. Gagnon et Fils Also, virtual tours online at: kids.sandiegozoo.org, Agriculture, Fisheries and the agreement reached by plant greeted 20 Mexican nps.gov/yell/learn and loads more! For children who love the Food and its minister, André Quebec Premier François workers in 2018 and 40 last computer or iPad use those tools BUT do not let them sit at the Lamontagne, who called Bill Legault, Prime Minister year. “The procedure to get computer all day. Sheehan because of his role Justin Trudeau and Canada’s that manpower must be with AQIP. “Minister Lamon- Deputy Prime Minister started a year ahead,” he The non-traditional method of teaching your children just might tagne called me to say that we Chrystia Freeland will make specifies. be more fun for you and your children will likely be less resistant will not be left without sup- room for exceptions, espe- The company employed to these “real life” activities. All activities should be appropriate port. He was targeting the cially for seasonal temporary up to 650 people during the to the children’s age. fishermen, the plant employ- workers from Mexico. peak period in 2019. That ees and the companies,” “The goal of the federal number not only includes the - Teach your children to cook, or even food preparation. There added Mr. Sheehan. government is to allow all the plant workers but also the is a lot of learning in cooking: reading a recipe, measuring, hy- Based on what Canada’s foreign seasonal workers, management people, the giene, spices, portion sizes, temperatures and cleaning up af- National Revenue Minister who already have a job here, truck drivers and the employ- terwards. Diane Lebouthillier affirmed to pass. That is clear,” ees working on the wharves. - Why not teach them how to do laundry? Teach them to gather, on March 16 regarding the pointed out Premier Legault Slightly more than 500 peo- sort, measure soap and operate the washer/dryer. likelihood of accepting Mex- in his March 18 daily coron- ple work in the main plant, - Have them deep clean their room. Teach them how to sort. For ican workers in Canada, Bill avirus update. located along highway 132. example, make three piles; to throw out, to give away and to Sheehan thought, until re- “It must be understood “The Mexicans fill about keep. This is learning. ceiving the message from that it is important. We import 10% of the plant’s production - Teach them how to sew on a button. This is fine motor skill Dotemtex, that it would be a lot of fruit and vegetables needs, and sometimes more. and might come in super handy. Teach them to knit or crochet. possible to greet his foreign during the winter but, in the If they don’t come, there are - You can have them watch you change the oil of your vehicle and workers on April 2, although summer, there is a big part of some types of production that they can learn. he also had doubts about that, the production that is made we will not do, like niche - Write letters. If you have stamps, they can write actual notes or given the instructions the by foreign seasonal workers. products for the Asian mar- letters to friends and family. Do your children know where to same day by Prime Minister So, I want to take the oppor- kets, for Japan precisely. We put a stamp on an envelope? Many do not. Justin Trudeau. tunity to reassure the farmers would then only make 30- - Have them rake the yard and plan a garden. They can decide The workers were aware who are listening, because I pound packages for the what they will plant and design their garden. Then come good that they would have to be in know that a lot of them are American market,” explains weather, they can plant their garden. quarantine for 14 days upon worried. We are preparing an Bill Sheehan. - They can (and should) help with other household chores: al- their arrival here. Before that agreement that will work ways take your dishes to the counter, scrape them and put them speech by Mr. Trudeau “we with the federal government in dishwasher; make their beds every day, put dirty clothes in thought that the Mexicans so that those labourers will be the basket or hamper, and help with taking out the garbage. would qualify, but not the able to work here,” he added. Guatemala workers,” adds About 16,000 workers Give them a purpose. They will learn so much along with that. We Bill Sheehan. The Mexicans from Mexico and Central are all in this together and family will be exceedingly important who already came to the America now come to Que- and even more so in the days to come. Gaspé Peninsula and the ones bec every year to work

Page 5, March 25, 2020 - Spec The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) causes a respiratory infection that can involve the following symptoms:

Fever Cough Trouble Breathing

Protect Yourself!

Wash your hands often with lukewarm Protect those close to you, particularly the running water and soap for at least elderly and those at greater risk for infection, 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based sanitizer by avoiding visiting them if you are feeling sick. if you do not have access to soap and water. It is strongly recommended that all persons Stay home: do not go to school, child centres returning from abroad self-isolate at home or daycares. Avoid public spaces and work for a period of 14 days and watch out for from home, whenever possible. any symptoms.

Québec.ca/coronavirus 1 877 644-4545

Page 6, March 25, 2020 - Spec Simple Acts “It is the small things, everyday deeds of ordinary folk that keep the darkness at bay. Simple acts of love and kindness.”

Diane Skinner ness and consideration will be ously protect others. Wear critical to dealing with this disposable gloves when using a We are living in strange and po- virus. Think of yourself as a shopping cart. Use Purell be- tentially dangerous times. Let member of the community and fore and after going into a store, us not underappreciate how your actions may be helpful using a bank machine, using a very serious the coronavirus is and maybe even save a life. debit machine and handling and will be in the coming days money. Clean your cell phone and even months. There is no Practice simple acts often. You can also use alcohol need and, certainly, it is not in of kindness and love: wipes. anyone’s best interest to panic. If you have a face mask, use Some simple, common-sense Stay home as much as you it. This is for you and others. measures will minimize the in- can. This prevents you from Don’t forget the children in crease in cases. Simple com- getting the virus and spreading your life may be scared. Talk mon-sense measures will help it to others you come in contact to them and answer their ques- to protect you and those you with. In particular, the elderly tions. Reassure them that many come in contact with. Do not are vulnerable, especially those people are working hard to find panic, but do not ignore. over 70. an answer for this. Tell them We have not seen anything Call people, email, facebook that you love them. like this in our lifetimes. So, we message, facetime or Skype If you can, help someone who will need to act in new ways, with those who are in self-iso- will be struggling to buy the use a different approach and be Facetime is a great way for children to stay in touch with their lation. Outside contact will necessities. People with limited vigilant. The virus can be trans- grandparents. make them feel cared for. It income cannot stock up on mitted very early on and the will reduce their anxiety. food. Donate to your local food signs to watch for include a avoid public gatherings and can also live on surfaces so Offer to drop off food or bank. sore throat, fever, cough and many large and meaningful wash your hands thoroughly other necessities but only if Remind yourself that things shortness of breath. If your steps have been taken to ensure and often. If you have no ac- you are NOT exhibiting symp- will get better one day. They symptoms develop into some- this. Schools and day cares cess to soap and water immedi- toms. No need to go into the will. They must. thing more serious, seek med- have been closed as well as ately, use hand sanitizer home just drop off the items. ical attention immediately. many other places of work. The containing at least 60% alco- Do not hug or shake hands These include difficulty breath- best way to prevent getting the hol. Avoid touching your eyes, with people that you en- “I wish it need not have hap- ing or shortness of breath, per- coronavirus is to avoid being nose and mouth before you counter. This is not the time pened in my time,” said Frodo. sistent pain in your chest, exposed to it. This virus is wash your hands. Do pay at- for close physical contact. “So, do I,” said Gandalf, “and confusion and/or a bluish tint to mainly passed on from person- tention to the news for updates Greet by using a wave or a so do all who live to see such lips or face. to-person from those who are on all information. yoga “namaste.” times. But that is not for them We are being cautioned to less than 6 feet away. The virus These are times when kind- Protecting yourself will obvi- to decide” J. R. R. Tolkien

We live in very strange times and we still do not know what is to come, however, we can be certain that there are a number of steps that we can take that may Precautions reasonably contain the coronavirus for us and our family. Diane Skinner No handshaking ever. Not onds. You can also use hand able to live a long time. Ask when the supplies might knowledge of this virus, how- even a high five or a fist bump. sanitizer that is at least 60% al- Avoid touching your face. be restocked. Order online. ever, there will be no vaccine Clasp hands together and bow cohol. In a pinch you can use Most people touch their face 90 Practice social distancing – available this year. Try to fol- if you wish. Better still stay six alcohol wipes. Dispose after times per day. Time to change stay six feet away from others, low these few guidelines when- feet away from other people. using. that. This virus only has recep- no big crowds and minimize ever possible. Watch the news, When you fill your vehicle Use disposable disinfectant tors for lung cells. The only your outings. Practice self- iso- as hard as that is to do right with gas, NEVER use your wipes. Wipe the shopping cart way that it can infect you is en- lation or self-quarantining. now. There may be new sug- bare hands on the handle of the handle and door handles both tering through your nose or That means do not go out at all. gestions for how to keep safe. pump. Wear gloves or even in your home and when out. mouth. Have your medications deliv- Until this is over, walk wrap a piece of paper towel At every entrance to your Things to buy if possible: dis- ered. If your grocery store of- around and look up at the sky, around the handle and then dis- home place a bottle of hand posable gloves, surgical masks, fers personal shopping – you the sun and the clouds. Admire pose of the paper towel. sanitizer. Use it when going in disinfectant wipes, hand sani- send your grocery list to the the beauty of trees and birds. If out in public, open doors and out. Keep a bottle in your tizer that contains 60% or more store by email or an app and an (While maintaining social dis- with a closed fist and never car. Use it before leaving your alcohol, zinc lozenges seem to employee goes around the store tancing.) Give yourself a break hold the handle in your bare car and when you get back in. be effective in blocking the and puts the items in a cart. from worry. Don’t be selfish hand. Disposable gloves would Don’t forget the door handles. virus from multiplying, and Then you just need to pay and and make sure the elderly and come in handy. If you have Kleenex is your friend. If you Betadine nose spray and throat pick it up. Call around and ask. those living alone have what none, follow the suggested cough or sneeze, use a tissue spray also seem to help block Scientists are working hard they need. habits: and discard. Cough into your the the virus. to understand this virus and Stay well. Wash your hands. Use elbow ONLY if there is no If you cannot buy these how it works. There has been a Wash your soap. Wash for at least 20 sec- other option. The virus may be items, do not stress too much. great increase in their scientific hands.

FOR UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION ON THE COVID-19 NOVEL VIRUS FOLLOW THE GASPÉ SPEC PAGE ON FACEBOOK OR VISIT THEGASPESPEC.COM

Page 7, March 25, 2020 - Spec Gaspesian Notables: Gérard D. Levesque New contract Levesque was a long-time Quebec politician and cabinet minister, for Percé civil servants who twice served as interim leader of the Quebec Liberal Party. Nelson Sergerie PERCÉ - Percé civil servants have signed a new agreement with Diane Skinner the municipality. On February 20, 89% of the workers accepted the proposed Gérard D. Levesque was a long-serving collective agreement which provides for increases of 14% over Gaspesian politician who can be admired for six years. several reasons, but particularly his political The 34 union members affiliated with the CSN also made gains longevity and the fact that he was held in such on their pension plans, leaves, vacations and the agreement gov- high regard by the Quebec Liberal Party and erning snow removal. The agreement also provides for an im- the residents of the Gaspé. He was born right provement in labour relations and in the management of labour here on the Coast in 1926 in what is now disputes. In this regard, a committee is now included in the col- called Port Daniel – Gascons. lective agreement in order to find a quick settlement before liti- He was educated in Montreal at McGill gation is brought to court. University, returned to his beloved Gaspé, and The collective agreement expired on December 31, 2018. “Al- was first elected to represent the riding of though the negotiation process was long, we believe that we have Bonaventure in 1956. He was just 30 years old achieved our negotiation objectives because of the solidarity of when he started on the path of serving as a . our members. That decision in assembly, to vote by means of lifelong provincial politician. Levesque was a pressure, unblocked the negotiations. We achieved concrete member of the Quebec Liberal Party for his Gérard D. Levesque was a Gaspesian politi- cian who was born in Port Daniel in 1926 progress that will improve our working and living conditions for entire career. and passed away in 1993 at the age of 67. the next few years,” says Jason Quirion, president of the Union of Levesque held many positions of addi- Workers for the Town of Percé, in a press release. tional responsibility in the government. Under the Quebec Liberal Party regained power, Premier Jean Lesage he served as the Minister Levesque stepped aside as Interim Leader of the of Housing and Fisheries. Later he also held Opposition. In Bourassa’s new government the post of Minister of Trade. In 1970 when Levesque was appointed Minister of Finance. This Musée de la Gaspésie closed Robert Bourassa was elected Premier of Que- was a position he held until his death in 1993 until March 29 at least bec, Levesque was again selected to hold po- when he was just 67 years old. sitions of added responsibility. These included Gérard D. Levesque was a popular and trusted Gilles Gagné Minister of Justice, Minister of Trade and sub- politician, but he never aspired, at least overtly, to After announcing on March 13 that it would remain open over sequently Deputy Premier. be the Leader of the Quebec Liberals and poten- the following days, the Musée de la Gaspésie in Gaspé announced When Bourassa was defeated in 1976, tially the Premier of Quebec. He served his people in March 15 its closure until at least March 29. Following the rec- Levesque became Leader of the Opposition but chose to stay here and serve the loyal voters of ommendations issued on March 15 by the Government of Que- because Robert Bourassa had lost his seat in the Gaspé. A section of Route 132 in Bonaven- bec, the museum management changed its earlier decision. Further the parliament of Quebec. Claude Ryan then ture, New Carlisle and Paspébiac is named boul. instructions regarding future activities will be communicated as became leader of the Quebec Liberal Party, Gérard D. Levesque in his honour. soon as other Quebec-wide recommendations are issued, specif- but did not yet have a seat, so again Gérard D. The spelling of his name is quite interesting. ically through the museum’s website and social media. Levesque was chosen to be acting Leader of His last name is correctly spelled without an ac- the Opposition. cent, even though René Lévesque spelled his sur- Levesque is remembered for his strong op- name with the acute accent. This can cause some position to what was then called Bill 1, the confusion. If one researches Gérard D. Levesque’s Charter of French Language. As a result of biographies, they confirm that his surname his very vocal opposition to the proposed Levesque is spelled correctly with no accent. Charter it had to be rewritten and was then re- These sources include minutes of Quebec Cabinet named Bill 101. In 1985 when Bourassa and meetings and the biography ‘Gérard D. Levesque, le maître politique’ by Serge Lambert. In addition, Teachers’ Guide he was always known politically as Gérard D. Comprehension: Levesque. The middle initial was always part of 1. Where and when was Gérard D. his name. All articles about him or official gov- Levesque born? ernment documents include the “D.” 2. Where was he educated, when did he Spec reader Brian Dea, who lives in Australia, become a politician and what party did he represent? provides the explanation. “Joseph Edmond Ger- 3. List some (at least 4) positions of re- ard Dea was born in Port Daniel West in the NOTICENOTICE TOTO sponsibility he held in the government. county of Bonaventure on May 2, 1926. His fa- ALL CLIENTS 4. How did Bill 1 become Bill 101? ther was Thomas Leonard Dea. On the death of ALL CLIENTS 5. How was he honoured in Paspébiac, his mother, Estelle Litalien, Irene Dea, the sister of Bonaventure and New Carlisle? his father, and her businessman husband, Joseph- Effective immediately Vocabulary Edmond Levesque, became his parents. Hence- we are implementing the Define: Define: longevity, aspired, oppo- sition forth he went by the name Gérard D. (for Dea) following directives. Extra: Levesque.” If possible send paperwork by email or text to: 1. Research Bill 1 and Bill 101. Tell some If we consider politicians, good politicians, as [email protected] or 418-759-5790. additional information about that leading a life of service then Gérard D. Levesque Dropping off paperwork in person: Papers must change. served his Gaspesian people well. We should 2. What do you consider a good or effec- learn about him and remember him as a Gaspe- be in an envelope with your name and phone tive politician? What qualities should number on it. Please wear gloves. they possess? sian notable. For more information: call Donna Harrison or Louis Sexton at any time in Cascapedia-St-Jules at (418) 759-5790. Call the Spec office on Tuesday before VILLAGE coming in (418) 752-5400 Real Estate Agency 208-B Gérard D. Levesque, New Carlisle Suzanne Landry 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (front west entrance) CERTIFIED REAL ESTATE BROKER AEO 418-752-0792 DEADLINE FOR FILING INCOME TAX HAS [email protected] www.suzannelandry.ca BEEN CHANGED TO JUNE 1, 2020 Friendly bilingual service Services d’Impôts H & S from Matapedia to Port Daniel 19 years experience H & S Tax Return Services

Page 8, March 25, 2020 - Spec Announcements...

Obituary In Memory Card of Thanks, Birth Announcement, Prayer, Engagement, Birthday, Anniversary, Memorial Service announcement: $30 ($35 with picture) up to 20 lines.

In Memoriam: $30 ($35 with picture) up to 20 lines $40 ($45 with picture) for more than 20 lines

Obituary or Wedding: $40 ($45 with picture) (Max. 300 words)

SUBMISSIONS FOR THIS PAGE MUST BE IN OUR OFFICE BY THURSDAY AT 4 P.M.

LEGROS: Phyllis (nee Patterson) WATT: Jessie (Munro) Passed away peacefully on February 3, 2020, at the In fond and loving memory of a wonderful lady St. Catharines Hospital in her 90th year. Predeceased who passed away March 27, 2017. by her husband Erskin (2012), her son Charles (2012), You had a smile for everyone and all her sisters and brothers of both families. She Classic is survived by her son Allison LeGros (Jocelyn) and You had a heart of gold Memorials her daughter Gerry Lise as well as eight grandchil- You left the sweetest memories dren and 10 great-grandchildren. This world could ever hold Four Generations Funeral arrangements and service will take place To us you were someone special of Monument Craftsmen later in Gaspé. In lieu of flowers, donations can be What more is there to say made to your local Catholic Church. HIGHEST QUALITY - BEST PRICES Except, wish with all our hearts Since 1846 That you were here today MONUMENTS, MARKERS, CEMETERY LETTERING, LASER DESIGNS AND PORTRAITS The times we spent together The New Carlisle Funeral Association The happy days we knew SALES REPS: extends sympathy to the family of Are lived again so often Albert Burton - New Richmond 418-391-6526 Marion Smith In memories of you. Steven Imhoff - New Carlisle 418-752-6041 Loved and missed everyday by your family. Alexis Normandeau - St. Jules 418-759-3270

MONUMENTS P. FOURNIER Grenier & Grenier Since 1846 GUARANTEEDForage QUALITYMoreau Inc. LAWYERS Tremblay & Barriault, notaires inc Notaries & legal counsel Tel: 418-892-5312418-392-9501 Cell: 418-355-4799 Réal Grenier, b.a.ll.l. [email protected] A Division of MGI Jules Grenier, b.a.ll.l. Gaël Tremblay, notary 641 Forillon Blvd, Gaspé, Que. WE ALSO REPLACE Serge Barriault, notary FOUNDATIONS, AND 96 Gérard D. Levesque Blvd, P.O. Box 519 New Carlisle (Quebec) G0C 1Z0 PROVIDE CLEANING FULLY Tel.: (418) 752-3308 • Fax (418) 752-6935 119B Perron Blvd West, New Richmond, Que. AND REPAINTING. Tel.: (418) 392-5282 • Fax: (418) 392-6155 BILINGUAL E-mail: [email protected] SERVICE

Forage Moreau Inc. By Appointment 418-392-9501 Going beyond and reliable since 1982 Mathieu Mercier - Driller/Owner Richard Ste Croix Denturologist - Artesian Well Drilling Construction and repair of dentures. 3 Rue Cerisiers - Budgetary Price We also make dentures on implants. Electricity - Plumbing Gaspé, Québec G4X 2M1 - Bilingual Service Automation Tel. (418) 368-5425 Industrial computing - RBQ: 5672-1467-01 9 Adams Street, Gaspé Fax (418) 368-7290 Tel.: (418) 368-1525 Counter sales Quebec G4X 1E5 Fax: (418) 368-1542 www.groupeohmega. com [email protected]

Dr. Pascal Cyr BILINGUAL Optometrist SERVICE

LENSES CRAFTED ON THE PREMISES MEMBER PASPÉBIAC: 104 Gérard D. Levesque Blvd West • 418­752­5553 OF Dr. Stacey Starrak CHANDLER: 260 René Lévesque Blvd East • 418­689­5553 Optometrist MARIA: 435 Perron Blvd West • 418­759­5553

Page 9, March 25, 2020 - Spec BILINGUAL SERVICE

MEMBER OF COAST ROUND-UP:$5 per week COAST ROUND-UP CLASSIFIED: $6 per week

CLASSIFIEDS braries, gyms). First payment of at the office. Community hall Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. to 6 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Friday property taxes postponed with- closed, citizen centre (arena) p.m. Saturday: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. from 8 a.m. to 12 (noon). All out penalty to March 30. For and municipal chalet closed. and Sunday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. municipal buildings, libraries, more info. contact 418-865- FAMILY TIES: Closed from community centres, arenas 2917. March 14 to March 29 inclu- HOPE TOWN: closed until March 29. PETIT CHAMONIX: Closed sively. If you belong to a private TOWN HALL: Closed to public. BARACHOIS LEGION: Closed CLUB RESTICO ST ALEXIS: Facebook or Messenger group We can be reached by phone CERCLE DE FERMIERES DE Closed for two weeks. through Family Ties, you can 418-752-2137. All residents over BRIDGEVILLE: Closed CENTRE SPORTIF AND CAN- contact the coordinator as 70 to stay at home and have rel- GEOPARC: Closure of the Des- TINE: Closed usual. If not, please feel free to atives do their errands. For peo- jardins playroom, Jaccuzi and SADC: Open but doors locked. send a message via the Family ple living alone with no relatives Tektonik multimedia room. Please advise us before coming Ties Facebook page. close to them, please contact The trails remain open and by telephone at 418-629-4474 NEW CARLISLE LEGION: the municipality. parking is available. Snowshoe LAND FOR SALE: Com- Closed until further notice. COMMUNITY CENTRE: Activities and toboggan rental on week- pletely serviced lot in New (post 221). CLC: Closed until further notice. cancelled. ends only. Carlisle, Quebec, located on CLUB DE CURLING DE LA Church Street, south of Route VALLEE: Closed CASA: All activities, Senior well- BARACHOIS REC CENTRE: The 132. Lot number 6041558. PARC REGIONAL DE VAL ness centres, Bright beginnings SHIGAWAKE: Barachois Rec Centre has put Asking $28,000. For more in- D’IRENE: Closed and Mental health first aid train- TOWN HALL: Closed. Citizens together a group of volunteers formation, please contact ing are cancelled or postponed. are asked to contact the office to assist seniors in the commu- Richard at 905-299-3695. MARIA: SPEC NEWSPAPER: Closed by phone or email. Call 418- nity. If you are aware of a sen- IGA: Regular hours. Delivery Please contact specs@globe- 752-2474 or email shi- ior(s) who has no family near CLASSIFIEDS COAST ROUNDUP available. Call 418-759-3440. trotter.net with any questions or [email protected] and is in need during the diffi- concerns (including cancella- COMMUNITY CENTRE: closed cult time, please contact us. GESGAPEGIAG: tions) or inbox The Gaspé Spec FIPEC: Closed. For orders or Our volunteers can assist in SHIGAWAKE: MICMACS OF GESGAPEGIAG: All on facebook. more information, please call running short errands, deliver Advance Notice offices closed until March 30, HERITAGE NEW CARLISLE: 418-752-3632 option 1 or email groceries or deliver a magazine St. Paul’s Anglican 2020, however, the departments Closed until further notice. [email protected]. to them. There will be no Church Women DEPANNEUR 2000: New store physical contact with the sen- July 18: Tea, bake and craft of Health and Social Services, hours are the following. Monday PORT DANIEL/GASCON: ior(s). The items will be sale will be held from noon to 2 Public Safety and Public Works p.m. at the Shigawake Commu- will continue to provide essen- to Friday: 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sat- TOWN HALL: Essential visits dropped off at the door. The nity Centre, Adults $7 and chil- tial services. urday: 6:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. and only. For more information Barachois Rec Centre commit- dren 6 and under free. Door RELAIS DE LA CACHE & CON- Sunday : 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. please contact 418-396-5225 tee can also assist with pur- prizes. Everyone is welcome. DOS: Closed ESSB BOARD OFFICE: Closed to (day) or Mayor Grenier 418- chase of basic food essentials MAWIOMI TREATMENT SERV- the public. There are limited 751-3156 (day and night). All in an emergency. Please con- PORT DANIEL: ICES INC: Closed staff working at the office so re- municipal infrastructures (are- tact 418-645-3779 or 418-645- Advance Notices: sponses to voicemails may be nas, centre plein air, community 3782 or email Marcil Woman institute will hold CASCAPEDIA-ST-JULES: delayed. centres, clubs and library [email protected] for the following events at the TOWN HALL: Closed to the pub- CANTEEN WIMPY: Open regular closed). Other activities (cross- assistance or more information. Three Star Golden Age Club in lic. For any information please hours. Delivery available by call- fit, dances etc..) cancelled. FIPEC GRANDE-RIVIERE: Port Daniel call 418-392-4042 or email cas- ing 418-752-2020. THREE STAR GOLDEN AGE Closed to the public. For orders June 6: Military Whist starting capediastjules.loisirs @globe- CLUB: All events cancelled or more information please call a 7 p.m. $5 per person trotter.net. PASPEBIAC: JEAN COUTU GASCON: Regular 418-385-3333 option 1 or email July 25: Strawberry social from CHRISTIAN BIBLE SERVICES: TOWN HALL: Closed. For more hours. Delivery available. Call [email protected]. 12 noon to 2 p.m. March 29 – cancelled. information please contact 418- 418-396-2025. COMMUNITY CENTRE: Closed 752-2277 or servicesauxci- RESTAURANT L’ETALE: Closed GASPÉ AND until March 30. [email protected]. SURROUNDING AREA: YOUTH CENTRE: Closed IGA: New hours: 8 a.m to 8 CHANDLER TOWN GASPE: All sports, cul- 50 PLUS CLUB: Closed p.m. Delivery available. Call PLACE DU HAVRE (SHOPPING tural, community facilities will ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION: 418-752-2288. CENTRE): New hours. Monday, be closed. Arenas, sports CAISSE DESJARDINS: Closed FAMILI PRIX: Regular hours. Tuesday and Wednesday from chalets, community halls, ski The following Caisse Desjardins Delivery available. Call 418-752- 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday and resorts, libraries, auditorium, will remain open to public. If NEW RICHMOND: 6635. Friday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. gyms and sports plateaux will your local Desjardins branch is TOWN HALL: Visits for essential JEAN COUTU: Regular hours. Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. be closed until further notice. not listed below, only Guichet services only. For any other in- Delivery available. Call 418-752- and Sunday from 12 (noon) to 4 Town Hall: Closed to the pub- service will be available. Centre formation, please contact 418- 3807. p.m. lic. Please call 418-368-2104 de services de Maria (Maria), 392-7000. ALL sports, cultural TIMS: Takeout and drive thru SUBWAY: Monday to Friday for information. Centre de services de Bonaven- and community centres closed only. New hours: Open from 5 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. CARREFOUR GASPE: New ture (Bonaventure), Mer et mon- including: arenas, sports a.m. to 11 p.m. TIMS CHANDLER: Takeout and hours are as follows: Monday, tagnes (Grande-Vallee), chalets, community halls, ski re- SUBWAY: Monday to Friday Drive thru only. Tuesday and Wednesday from Centre-sud gaspesien (Chan- sorts, libraries and gyms. from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. THE SOURCE: Closed 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday and dler), Pointe de la Gaspesie SUBWAY: Monday to Friday 10 HARTS: New hours: Monday, SAAQ CHANDLER: Closed Friday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Gaspé), Ramées (L’Etang-du- a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday from CAB CHANDLER: In order to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 Nord), Ramées (Grande-Entrée), TIMS: Takeout and drive thru 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Thursday maintain essential services CAB p.m. and Sunday from 12 Havre-aux-Maisons (Havre-aux- only. and Friday from 11 a.m. to 7 is in urgent need of volunteers (noon) to 5 p.m. Maisons) and Littoral gaspésien IGA: New hours: 8 a.m to 8 p.m. p.m. Saturday from 11 a.m. to under the age of 70. For more DOUGLASTOWN COMMUNITY (Grande-Riviere). Delivery is available please con- 5 p.m. and Sunday from 12 information contact 418-689- CENTRE: Closed. tact 418-392-4237 for more in- (noon) to 5 p.m. 6023 or visit cabchandler.com YORK RIVER SENIORS: All ac- VIA RAIL: formation. LA GANACHE HUPPEE: Home TOWN OF CHANDLER: Essential tivities cancelled. VIA Rail’s overnight train (Mon- MAXI: New hours: 8 a.m. to delivery to isolated people. Call visits only, for more info call GASPE COUNTY WI: Cancelled treal-Halifax) has been can- p.m. until further notice. 1-581-701-1236. 418-689-2221. All sports cen- LIONS CLUB: Closed until April celled beginning March 13, CHRISTIAN BIBLE SERVICES: RESTO PUB GASPESIEN: tres, gym, pool, dances, yoga, 25, 2020. 2020. March 26 and April 2 – Can- Closed. arenas, libraries (Chandler and SPORTS EXPERTS: Closed celled. DIXIE LEE: Regular hours. Be- Newport) and community cen- MARCHE IGA CRONIER: NEW CHURCH SERVICES: THE SOURCE: Closed ginning March 18 for a trial pe- tres closed until further notice. hours: Monday and Tuesday All services at the Anglican, ACCENT: New hours: Monday to riod from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednes- United and Catholic Churches Saturday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. delivery between Hope and PERCÉ AND day, Thursday and Friday from along the Coast have been can- Sunday: closed. In case of New Carlisle. Delivery cost of SURROUNDING AREA: 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday from celled. emergency, please call 418-392- $5 and a minimum purchase of VILLE DE PERCE: Closed to the 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday 0744 or 418-392-0559. $15 is required. Tips not in- public including municipal build- from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. MATAPEDIA: cluded. Cash only / Interac sys- ings, such as the town hall, li- GASPE CANCER FOUNDATION: TOWN HALL: For any informa- NEW CARLISLE: tem will be available soon. braries and community centres. Closed until April 3. Anyone tion please contact 418-865- TOWN HALL: Closed to the PRO PIEDS DE LA BAIE: Closed VISION GASPÉ-PERCÉ NOW: wanting to renew their member 2917. ALL sports, cultural and public. For information please until March 30. Staff will be working from home ship can mail it to the Founda- community centres closed in- call 418-752-3141 or email new- THE SOURCE: Closed and can be reached by email. tion P.O Box indicated on the cluding (arenas, sports chalets, [email protected] to CANADIAN TIRE: New hours TOWN OF GRANDE-RIVIERE: Blue sheets found in last week community halls, ski resorts, li- reach staff who will be present beginning March 20, 2020. Open Monday to Thursday from Publisac.

Page 10, March 25, 2020 - Spec On the lighter side... CROSSWORDS Great Ideas forold

CLUES ACROSS 2. Concurs 1. Expression of disgust 3. __and her sisters 4. A place to unwind 4. Patti Hearst’s captors 7. A type of cooking range 5. Used to refer to cited works 8. Grasp tightly 6. A state of excited movement 10. Sea eagles 8. Advertising term (abbr.) 12. Carb dish 9. Nocturnal S. American ro- 13. Late-night host dent 14. Revolutions per minute 11. New York art district 16. Indicates odd or erroneous 14. Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! 17. FDR’s military chief of staff 15. Pre-release viewing 19. Swiss river 18. Northwestern Canadian ter- 20. Norwegian district and river ritory (abbr.) 21. A form of motivation 19. Consumed 25. Car mechanics group 20. Falters 26. Once a must-have home 22. Radioactive form of an ele- theater accessory ment 27. Broken branch 23. Catch a wrongdoer 29. Apple and pumpkin are two 24. Breeze through 30. Skeletal muscle 27. Thick piece of something 31. Small Eurasian deer 28. Yellowish-brown color 32. Tight-lipped fellow 29. “The Raven” poet 39. Comes after a cut 31. Rural free delivery (abbr.) 41. A place one lives 32. Creating 42. Cognizant of 33. Supervises flying 43. Albanian monetary unit 34. Northwestern state 44. Carrot’s partner 35. Was obligated to repay ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 to. Stand behind your work and 45. Famed garden 36. Diverging in lines from a Aries, having friends in high places opinions. 46. Chilean seaport common center can open doors to some unique AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 48. Days (Spanish) 37. Bleak places. But you can only keep Aquarius, no matter how busy your 49. Sudden anxiety 38. We all have them those doors open through hard schedule may be, carve out some 50. 100 square meters 39. Hit with the palm of one’s work. portunity to be flirty and fun this time to take care of some financial 51. A type of beer hand TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 week. But even those in relation- issues that have cropped up in the 52. French/Belgian river 40. Sea that’s part of the west- Widen your social network to have ships can get in on the action, put- last few weeks. ern Pacific the best opportunities for success ting romance to the forefront. PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 CLUES DOWN 44. Political action committee this week, Taurus. New people can LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Take a new approach to a similar 1. Spanish dish 47. Famed Spanish soldier El__ provide useful information and ap- Libra, others may see you as the ad- task and you may come away with proaches you never imagined. vice guru this week. That is a role something surprising, Pisces. Take GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 you excel in, but you must balance that leap of faith. Gemini, surround yourself with peo- the extra counseling work with your ple who can help advance your ca- existing responsibilities. reer. The changing landscape of SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS your job means you need to be Someone who lays on the flattery MARCH 22 open to all possibilities. can win you over in an instant, Scor- Nick Robinson, Actor (25) CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 pio. But once you delve deeper, you MARCH 23 There is no need to keep a calm fa- may grow suspicious. Accept praise Keri Russell, Actress (44) cade if you are experiencing some but don’t let it cloud your vision. MARCH 24 anxiety, Cancer. Be honest with SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 Peyton Manning, Athlete (44) those closest to you and you’ll ben- Sagittarius, you tend to give freely MARCH 25 efit from their feedback. without worrying about the bottom Ryan Lewis, Music Producer LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 line. But today’s stars flash warnings (32) The strong force of your sensitivity that you may need to keep a tight MARCH 26 may surprise you over the course of hold on your cash. Jonathan Groff, Actor (35) the next few days, Leo. Just try not CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 MARCH 27 to let emotions cloud your judgment It is never a good idea to enhance Mariah Carey, Singer (50) on the professional front. the facts, Capricorn. However, you MARCH 28 VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 can be enthusiastic about your ef- Lady Gaga, Singer (34) Single Virgos will have plenty of op- forts and what those efforts may lead

Page 11, March 25, 2020 - Spec Another successful edition of TDLG

Nelson Sergerie joined the event to produce a photo exhibit. The organiza- GASPÉ - The Traversée de la tion hopes that the captured Gaspésie (TDLG), which images will be exhibited, es- ended on February 29 in the pecially in Paris. Parc de la Gaspésie, was once Some 250 participants and again a success. It was an edi- volunteers participated, in- tion that took place in more cluding journalists from the spring-like than winter condi- United Kingdom and France, tions. the benefits of which amount This is the assessment to millions of dollars, accord- made by the president of the ing to Ms. Roy. 18th edition, Claudine Roy. At the local level, the "It was an incredible success. money left in the communi- We had ideal temperatures. ties is significant. The weather was even a little "It’s 250 people that we There was a large crowd at the end of the first day too hot the first few days. have to house and feed. It’s of activities in downtown Gaspé. People were dazzled by the about $1 million in the middle Photo: N. Sergerie beauty of the landscape of our of February. When you have beautiful Gaspé,” states the lunch or lunch at the Café de president. l'Anse de l'Anse-au-Griffon, Even though a storm these organizations generate GOGO FORFOR AA struck on the night of Febru- significant revenues. You can Modern and Affordable ary 28, the planned activities leave between $10,000 or Modern and Affordable proceeded normally. $15,000 for a breakfast. It’s sig- WellWell designeddesigned The theme of the 18th edi- nificant for our communities." tion was “light.” A group of No unpleasant situations QualityQuality homehome photographers from all over occurred during this edition. Blasting: concerns in Grande-Rivière Nelson Sergerie Grand River - Residents of the west sector of Grand River are worried about the blasting done by Blastech Dynamitage Inc. Residents are concerned that the shock waves will damage their homes, especially those living within 500 metres of the quarry. Mayor Gino Cyr indicates that they received seven or eight complaints about each blast which has occurred approximately once a week since last October. The municipal authorities indicate that the rules are re- spected and ask the Ministry of the Environment to carry out verifications, even if the company cooperates well with the Town. "It’s the Ministry of the Environment that issues operating permits, but it’s the municipalities that are keen to follow up on complaints. The cooperation is excellent between Blastech, the entrepreneur, and the town,” says general manager Kent Dream it! Build it! Live it! Representative Moreau. Robert Bilodeau The municipality received a message by email to the effect CHOOSE AN HMC BUILT HOUSE that an inspector from the Ministry of the Environment would Factory-built, sheltered from the weather using a method which reduces costs and production time offering the highest visit the site. quality standards and the best energy efficiency The quarry provides stones for work at the Percé, Sainte- Thérèse and Anse-à-Beaufils harbours. IMAGINE YOUR HMC HOME A move in ready home with the decor of your choice and designed the way you want, no hassles, no worries

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Page 12, March 25, 2020 - Spec

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