Marquis-Bissonnette commits to supporting Unigym relocation to Galeries Aylmer if re-elected

Sophie Demers 

Maude Marquis-Bissonnette, current mayor of Gatineau and mayoral candidate for Action Gatineau, held a press conference at the Galeries Aylmer to announce her party's plans for sports infrastructure and culture if elected. She was joined by Action Gatineau candidate for Lucerne, Sonia Ben-Arfa along with candidate for Buckingham Mike Owen, and Isabelle N. Miron candidate for L’Orée-du-Parc. 

Marquis-Bissonnette announced her plan to support an agreement between the Unigym Gatineau gymnastic club and the Galeries Aylmer within the first six months of her mandate. The plan would be to move Unigym into the location that is currently being occupied by the Lucy-Faris Library and the city service centre, which will be moving back to their old location in the new Constance-Provost building, set to be completed by early 2026. According to the mayoral candidate, a new Unigym has been long-awaited. Ben-Arfa voiced her support, stating that there is a significant need for sports infrastructure in Aylmer.

On the opposite end of the city in Buckingham, Marquis-Bissonnette committed to moving forward with a two-rink arena. The incumbent mayor also said she is committed to getting each area of the city a refrigerated outdoor rink. With temperatures rising and winters not as cold, this infrastructure would allow for rinks to stay open longer throughout the season.

Gatineau has already started a pilot project at Parc des Cèdres and is part of the park’s development plan. The city is renting specialized equipment for this project. According to Marquis-Bissonnette, this will allow the city to evaluate best options for offering this type of facility in other areas of Gatineau.

The mayoral candidate said she is also actively working with the Gatineau Olympics organization to campaign to have Gatineau host the 2028 Memorial Cup. She said this will bring visibility to the city, as well as tourism and economic benefits.

With regard to culture, Marquis-Bissonnette promised to support the creation of the Musée Régional de l'Outaouais, increase contribution to cultural organization, ensure activities are held year-round at Place Laval, and support main streets in all areas of the city. Finally, she committed to completing the special urban planning program and inventory for Buckingham's heritage buildings.