On Feb. 19, around a dozen seniors and representatives of several community organizations gathered at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Fort-Coulonge for the first of several public consultations on challenges facing seniors in the community.
MRC economic development officer for culture, Marie Gionet, gave an introduction about how the event fit into the creation of a “senior-friendly” strategy for the MRC and 14 participating municipalities. The goal is to better adapt municipal services, improve accessibility and support that demographic in the community.
Attendees spoke about issues facing seniors in their communities, with difficulties around public transportation and communication particularly common. There was also discussion about the lack of housing options, particularly those for those with mobility issues. Participants were also encouraged to share their ideas as well as what they are proud of in their community.
Gionet also presented the attendees with some detailed statistical data about the area. Since 2015, according to data from the Quebec government, the MRC’s population has increased by about 700 people (14,278 to 14,988). In 2024, 28 per cent (4,184) of Pontiacers were over the age of 65, and that demographic group is projected to increase significantly over the next decade.
The MRC is being assisted in the creation of these policies by CommunAgir, a firm specializing in “citizen participation and community development.” The funding came through an FRR grant and $1,000 from each participating municipality.
Consultations were also carried out in five different municipalities (Shawville, Alleyn-et-Cawood, Bryson, Otter Lake and L’Isle-aux-Allumettes), on Tuesday Feb. 24. The information gathered will be analyzed by a working committee, which Gionet said will be made up of organizations that work with seniors, such as regional health authority CISSSO, the Maison de la Famille, etc. in order to draft policy and action plans which are expected to be presented to the MRC council in September.
