Vaccination Campaign Commences Against Respiratory Viruses in the Laurentians Region
The Integrated Health and Social Services Center (CISSS) of the Laurentians is launching a comprehensive vaccination campaign against respiratory viruses, kicked off on October 10 in the Laurentians region. The primary objective of this initiative is to provide free vaccinations to the entire populace, targeting influenza and COVID-19, with specific emphasis on certain demographics for the pneumococcal vaccine. The campaign is especially pertinent for those individuals at a heightened risk of complications associated with respiratory viruses and infections.
High-Risk Groups Identified
Residents in long-term care facilities, private residences for seniors, or other communal settings with a significant elderly and vulnerable population.
Individuals aged 60 and above.
Immunocompromised individuals, dialysis patients, or those managing chronic illnesses.
Pregnant women and parents of infants under six months.
Healthcare workers.
Adults residing in remote or isolated regions.
Vulnerable individuals within these identified groups are urged to promptly schedule their vaccination appointments. Notably, these sessions will offer the convenience of receiving both influenza and COVID-19 vaccines simultaneously, with the possibility of the pneumococcal vaccine for eligible groups.
Mandatory Appointment Scheduling Methods: Online at clicsante.ca or by phone at 1 877 664-4545, Monday to Friday, from 8 am to 6 pm
To enhance accessibility to vaccination services for the Laurentians population, the campaign is strategically deploying vaccination points across local service hubs (Vaccination) and select pharmacies. For a comprehensive list of local service points in the region, please refer to santelaurentides.gouv.qc.ca under the “Contact Us” and “Local Service Points” sections. Notably, local service points will not facilitate walk-in appointments.
Nighttime Mischief: Four Teenagers Arrested in Boisbriand for Arson and Break-in
In a shocking turn of events, Boisbriand, became the backdrop for a juvenile crime spree on Friday 29th of September. Four teenagers found themselves in police custody after allegedly setting fire to garbage bins and breaking into a property.
The Thérèse-De Blainville Intermunicipal Police Board (RIPTB) swiftly responded to the incident, announcing the arrest of the suspects near the crime scene. A press release from the RIPTB emphasized the crucial role played by witnesses and the rapid intervention of law enforcement in successfully apprehending the individuals responsible for the mayhem.
Remarkably, the fires set by the teenagers resulted in no injuries or significant property damage. Credit is due to the local firefighters who promptly extinguished the flames, preventing the situation from escalating further. The RIPTB is actively engaged in the aftermath of the incident, currently meeting with witnesses and conducting various investigations to piece together the sequence of events. This meticulous approach is essential in understanding the full extent of the teenagers’ actions and ensuring a thorough investigation.
As part of the ongoing process, the youths involved in the incident were interviewed by investigators. Following these interviews, they were released, albeit with stringent conditions to adhere to. The imposition of conditions underscores the seriousness with which law enforcement views the alleged crimes committed by the teenagers.
“The police are currently meeting with witnesses and conducting various investigations. The youths will be interviewed by investigators in the coming hours and will then be released with conditions to follow. The investigation continues,” stated the RIPTB in an official statement.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by communities in addressing and preventing juvenile delinquency. The cooperation of witnesses and the quick response by law enforcement demonstrate the importance of community vigilance in maintaining public safety.
As the investigation unfolds, the community will undoubtedly be eager for updates on the motives behind these reckless acts and the potential consequences for the teenagers involved. It remains to be seen how this event will influence local policies and initiatives aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future.
In the meantime, the Thérèse-De Blainville Intermunicipal Police Board says that it remains committed to uncovering the truth behind this unsettling night in Boisbriand, providing reassurance to the community and emphasizing the consequences of irresponsible actions.
New Mask-Wearing Guidelines Implemented by CISSS des Laurentides Amidst Growing COVID-19 Concerns
Responding to the evolving epidemiological landscape in Quebec and the Laurentides region, coupled with the heightened transmission of COVID-19 within communities and healthcare settings, the Integrated Health and Social Services Center (CISSS) des Laurentides has announced pivotal adjustments to its mask-wearing policy. With the impending flu season adding another layer of complexity, these changes will come into effect from October 5, 2023.
Policy Overview
For Healthcare Workers: Healthcare professionals are now required to wear masks in patient environments, spanning entry into rooms, consultation offices, users’ homes, and more. This mandate extends to acute care, rehabilitation, and home care settings. In living environments such as CHSLD, senior homes, youth rehabilitation centers, and long-term mental health care centers, mask-wearing is strongly encouraged, emphasizing a commitment to safety and precaution.
For Visitors and Caregivers: Visitors and caregivers must wear medical masks when in proximity to a hospitalized patient within a hospital or when under observation in the emergency department. The use of masks is also encouraged in other sectors, fostering a culture of responsibility and shared protection.
For patients: Patients exhibiting respiratory symptoms or meeting exposure criteria to COVID-19 must continue to wear masks. Additionally, in various situations, especially for immunosuppressed or transplant users, mask usage is encouraged to safeguard vulnerable populations.
Continuous Monitoring and Collaboration
Rosemonde Landry, President and CEO of CISSS des Laurentides, assures the public of their vigilant oversight. The mask-wearing policy will be subject to ongoing evaluation based on the latest epidemiological data. She calls for the collaborative efforts of the community to curb the transmission of COVID-19 and mitigate the risk of nosocomial diseases.
As we navigate these challenging times, the CISSS des Laurentides emphasizes the collective responsibility we all share in safeguarding public health.
Harvest Day in Rosemère: A Festive Fusion of Community and Compassion
On September 16, the grounds in front of the Rosemère public library transformed into a vibrant tapestry of community spirit and autumnal celebration during this year’s Harvest Day. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., residents reveled in a spectrum of activities, all while supporting local businesses at stands curated by 20 regional vendors. This wholesome event not only marked the onset of the harvest season but also served as a benevolent food drive for Moisson Laurentides, a prominent local food assistance provider.
The heartwarming outcome of the event was the collection of 42 kilograms of donated food items, a generosity that promises to touch the lives of families facing challenging times. Mayor Eric Westram expressed gratitude, noting, “Harvest Day is always a popular gathering that helps to ease the transition from summer into autumn.”
Highlighting a key objective of the event, Mayor Westram emphasized the importance of showcasing locally made and crafted products. The aim is to inspire residents to patronize businesses within Rosemère, fostering a sense of community and economic support. The Mayor extended thanks to everyone who contributed fruits, vegetables, and non-perishable items for Moisson Laurentides, acknowledging the significant impact of their civic spirit.
The Harvest Day festivities extended beyond vendor stands. Attendees were treated to an array of engaging workshops, including cooking sessions, beekeeping demonstrations, and DIY bug hotel crafting. Roaming circus performers added an element of whimsy, and a mobile petting farm delighted visitors of all ages. A lively soundtrack provided by a DJ ensured that the atmosphere remained festive throughout the day.
Introduced in 2019, Harvest Day has swiftly become a cherished fall tradition for Rosemerites. As the event seamlessly blends the joys of community engagement with a commitment to aiding those in need, it stands as a testament to the town’s collective spirit and resilience. The success of this year’s celebration not only heralds the arrival of autumn but also underscores the power of a united community working towards a common good.
Celebrating Excellence: Deux-Montagnes Shines with Level 5 Recognition in BiblioQUALITY Program
In a moment of pride and achievement, the City of Deux-Montagnes proudly announces its remarkable achievement in the BiblioQUALITY program, having secured an impressive score of 85% in the 2022 evaluation. This outstanding accomplishment has not only set the city apart but also earned it the prestigious Level 5 ribbon, symbolizing a commitment to excellence in library services.
While the average score among Quebec cities, all esteemed members of the Association des bibliothèques publiques du Québec (ABPQ), hovers around 70%, Deux-Montagnes stands tall with a result 15% higher. This significant deviation emphasizes the city’s dedication to enhancing its public library services and infrastructure.
The BiblioQUALITY program stands as a beacon for recognizing and celebrating the substantial and sustainable investments made in public libraries. The program meticulously evaluates libraries based on five key indicators: acquisition expenses, opening hours, adequate space, seating capacity, and human resources.
Mayor Denis Martin, expressing his elation, stated, “We can be proud of this excellent result. It reflects our commitment to providing the population of Deux-Montagnes with services that not only promote cultural development but also cultivate a genuine love for reading.” The Mayor further highlighted the multifaceted approach taken by the city, including strategic investments in new collections, the recruitment of highly qualified staff, and ensuring top-notch facilities for library users.
The achievement is more than just a numerical score; it underscores the City of Deux-Montagnes’ unwavering commitment to fostering a vibrant and intellectually stimulating community. The public library, serving as a cultural hub, plays a pivotal role in enriching the lives of residents.
Looking ahead to 2023, Mayor Martin revealed plans for additional investments in the library, further fortifying its standing as a hub for knowledge and community engagement. Notably, the recent extension of library opening hours by five additional hours per week showcases the city’s proactive approach in meeting the evolving needs of its residents.
For those eager to delve into the specifics of the BiblioQUALITY program and the factors that contributed to Deux-Montagnes’ impressive achievement, a wealth of information is available at biblioqualite.ca. This platform offers insights into the meticulous evaluation process and sheds light on how the program acts as a catalyst for continuous improvement in library services across Quebec.
The current issue of The North Shore News volume 19-19 published October 13th, 2023. Covering North Shore local news, politics, sports and other newsworthy events.
CISSS Laurentides Seeks Input from Informal Caregivers to Enhance Patient Care
The Laurentides Integrated Health and Social Services Center (CISSS) is embarking on a mission to elevate its healthcare practices by engaging informal caregivers. In an effort to enhance care partnerships involving medical staff, patients, their informal caregivers, and community collaborators, CISSS is calling upon informal caregivers who have witnessed the hospitalization of their loved ones to participate in an enlightening online survey. This initiative seeks to gauge their perspectives on the caregiving experience and post-hospitalization follow-up care and services.
At the core of this endeavor is the belief that by centering informal caregivers and patients in the heart of the care partnership and by actively promoting their integration and engagement, CISSS can refine its practices, ultimately ensuring a safe, functional, and successful return to home for patients. Rosemonde Landry, CEO of CISSS des Laurentides, emphasizes the significance of this approach, noting that it is pivotal for the improvement of healthcare services.
The ambitious project, aptly named “Partners for Home Above All,” sets its sights on crafting and deploying a suite of tools and resources tailored to the needs of service users, their families, informal caregivers, and all other stakeholders involved in the healthcare process, including medical professionals from primary care and hospital settings.
The insights derived from the online survey, accessible via this link [https://fr.surveymonkey.com/r/Plcsat], are poised to play a critical role in identifying existing strengths and areas of improvement within the realm of informal caregiver involvement in the care partnership and post-hospitalization care. The ultimate objective is to optimize this partnership, resulting in a more seamless and holistic healthcare experience for all involved.
For individuals seeking further information on this initiative, CISSS Laurentides encourages a visit to their dedicated caregiving page at santelaurentides.gouv.qc.ca. This represents an opportunity for the community to stay informed, engaged, and actively contribute to the evolution of healthcare practices within the Laurentides region. CISSS des Laurentides hopes that stakeholders can pave the way for a brighter and more compassionate healthcare future.
Rosemère’s Active Mobility Project: A greener, healthier Vision”
In a symbolic move towards a greener and healthier future, Rosemère Mayor Eric Westram, along with the dedicated members of Town Council, arrived at a press conference not in their usual cars but on bicycles. This gesture marked the official announcement of an ambitious Active Mobility Project that will unfold over the next decade within Rosemère and create vital connections with neighboring municipalities, including Laval, Boisbriand, Lorraine, Sainte-Thérèse, and Blainville.
“The project we are announcing today is the culmination of much thought and deliberation between 2018 and 2020, in response to residents’ input during public consultations and their call for concrete action on active transportation,” said Mayor Westram. “We listened, and today we are unveiling an active mobility project that is directly in line with our sustainable development priorities. We will be improving the entire network of bike and multiuse paths in Rosemère to promote active transportation and to make it even safer and more convenient.”
The commitment to this transformative project is unwavering, and the Town of Rosemère will explore various funding solutions available through the provincial and federal governments, as well as the Communauté métropolitaine de Montréal (CMM). The initial investment required for Phase 1, which will span Labelle Boulevard from Île Bélair Bridge to Grande-Côte Road, is estimated at $5.2 million, minus any funding received. Further information about additional investments needed for subsequent phases will be shared in due course.
What is Active Mobility?
Active mobility encompasses forms of travel that rely on human energy, with or without electric assistance. It includes activities such as walking, jogging, cycling, inline skating, skateboarding, scootering, and more. Rosemère’s Active Mobility Project aims to make these activities more accessible and safer for its residents.
Key Features of the Active Mobility Project
The Town’s Active Mobility Project is a multifaceted endeavor that will bring about several key improvements, including:
New Multiuse Paths: The addition of a new network of multiuse paths on Labelle Boulevard and Grande-Côte Road, which will include a path running along Labelle Boulevard (Route 117) from Autoroute 640 to Laval.
Enhanced Connectivity: The project will connect several existing bike paths to ensure better connectivity between various neighborhoods, specifically around Labelle Boulevard, Autoroute 640, Roland-Durand Boulevard, and the Pineridge Sector, where Rosemère and Blainville’s bike paths meet.
Multiple Benefits for Rosemère Residents
During the press conference, Mayor Westram emphasized the numerous benefits of active transportation, which include:
Improved Physical and Mental Health: Encouraging residents to engage in active mobility options contributes to better physical fitness and mental well-being. Active transportation promotes a healthier lifestyle.
Reduction in Greenhouse Gas Emissions: By promoting alternative modes of transportation that do not rely on fossil fuels, Rosemère is taking a significant step towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change.
Less Traffic Congestion: As more residents opt for active transportation, there will be a reduction in the number of cars on the road. This can alleviate traffic congestion, making commuting smoother and more efficient for everyone.
Better Overall Quality of Life: The Active Mobility Project will enhance the overall quality of life in Rosemère. Cleaner air, safer streets, and improved physical fitness opportunities are all part of this vision for a more livable community.
Rosemère’s Active Mobility Project signifies not only a commitment to sustainability and eco-consciousness but also a dedication to the health and well-being of its residents. As the project unfolds over the next decade, Rosemère is poised to become a model for active and green transportation initiatives, setting an inspiring example for other communities to follow. The future is bright, and it’s on two wheels in Rosemère.
In a display of community spirit and compassion, Rosemère residents came together on September 18 and 19 for the annual blood drive organized by the Town Council. This event, held at Place Rosemère and coordinated by Héma-Québec, not only exceeded expectations but also showcased the power of collective action in saving lives.
Over the course of two days, 163 individuals generously donated their blood. These selfless acts of kindness have far-reaching consequences, as nearly 600 blood products will be made available for transfusion to patients in Québec’s public hospitals. Each donation represents an opportunity to save a life, and thanks to the support of Rosemère residents, countless lives have been preserved.
“The objective of 140 donors for the two days was successfully surpassed. I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to all those who took a moment out of their day to give blood—a simple gesture that can save thousands of lives. I would also like to thank the Héma-Québec volunteers and Place Rosemère for their invaluable support in organizing this blood drive,” stated Eric Westram, Mayor of Rosemère.
This remarkable achievement underscores the significance of community engagement and the pivotal role that local organizations play in promoting the welfare of their citizens. The Rosemère Town Council’s blood drive is a testament to the strong sense of community that thrives in this town.
Héma-Québec, a vital partner in ensuring the success of blood donation events, regularly organizes similar drives throughout the year. Residents of Rosemère who missed this particular event but wish to contribute in the future, are encouraged to keep an eye on the Town’s communication platforms for announcements about upcoming blood drives.
Who Can Give Blood?
The act of donating blood is a noble endeavor that can make a substantial impact on the lives of those in need. If you are considering donating blood, it’s important to know that anyone in good health who is 18 years of age or older is generally eligible to do so. Your contribution can be a lifeline for patients undergoing various medical treatments and procedures.
Before heading to a blood drive, it’s advisable to ensure your eligibility. You can do so by contacting Donor Services at 1-800-847-2525 or by visiting Héma-Québec’s website at hema-quebec.qc.ca and navigating to the “Can I give blood?” section on the English pages of the site. This resource provides valuable information about who can donate and any specific criteria that need to be met.
Mayor Liza Poulin surrounded by Francis Allaire and Nicole Ruel, delegated advisors of the Environment and Ecological Transition Commission. The photo was taken near the Parc équestre woodland, one of the six natural habitats that will soon be registered in the Metropolitan Directory of Municipal Conservation Initiatives of the Communauté métropolitaine de Montréal (CMM).
As part of the adoption of the Ecological Transition Plan under the theme “Act Now for Tomorrow,” Mayor Liza Poulin announced a significant concrete step, which is the protection of 140.6 hectares of natural habitats. These will soon be registered in the Metropolitan Directory of Municipal Conservation Initiatives of the Communauté métropolitaine de Montréal (CMM). To get an idea of how big this area is, it is equivalent to 195 soccer fields.
This includes the Parc équestre woodland, Plan Bouchard woodland, Grand Coteau woodland (located between Asbestos and Martin streets in Le Grand Coteau), Locke Head Creek woodland along Seigneurie Ouest Boulevard, the future Chambéry woodland, and the ravines of Fontainebleau.
“The city’s commitment to protecting these magnificent sites will now be recorded in this directory. Once registered, these sites will account for nearly 11% of municipal conservation initiatives for natural habitats listed in the directory of the Communauté métropolitaine de Montréal. Blainville is therefore in an excellent position and leads the way among CMM cities in terms of conserving natural habitats,” said Ms. Poulin.
In addition to this major announcement, the very first actions that will be undertaken by the city include:
Conducting an inventory of greenhouse gas emissions in the Blainville area.
Adopting and implementing regulations to limit the use of certain single-use items, such as straws, glasses, plastic bags, and containers.
Developing a plan to combat urban heat islands.
Distributing compost to Blainville residents at public events, such as Park Fest, as a thank-you for their participation in green and food waste collections.
These actions are intended to serve as the ignition for the continuation of the Ecological Transition Plan.
