MINUTES – PUBLIC – LIVING TOGETHER COMMISSION – 3rd meeting – September 25, 2025 – 9:07 a.m. to 12:07 p.m.
⭐ Notable items (5)
Representatives from the Ministry of Immigration (MIFI) presented the 'Accompagnement Québec' program, a free service that helps immigrants integrate into Quebec society through personalized action plans. The discussion covered eligibility, the role of integration agents, and current challenges in the Outaouais region, such as long wait times for French-language training.
A researcher from the Université du Québec en Outaouais (UQO) presented findings on factors that help immigrants settle permanently outside of Montreal. The discussion highlighted Gatineau's status as a major immigration hub and explored the challenges immigrants face regarding employment, housing costs, and the need for long-term retention strategies.
City staff presented a new urban outdoor action plan aimed at improving access to outdoor activities, parks, and waterfronts. The commission discussed the importance of making these spaces inclusive for diverse groups, including immigrants, by improving signage, safety, and accessibility to facilities like parks and riverbanks.
Accueil-Parrainage Outaouais (APO) reviewed a project designed to help neighborhood associations better support newcomers. The initiative aims to provide these local groups with the tools and training necessary to foster integration at the community level.
The commission reviewed its 2024-2025 work plan, noting that all objectives were met across seven major files, including social inclusion, political representation, and diversity. The report will be formally submitted to the municipal council on October 2.
The meeting was called to order at 9:07 a.m. in a hybrid format. This was the final meeting of the Commission before the November municipal elections, marking the completion of the 2024-2025 work plan.
The commission formally adopted the meeting agenda.
No members declared any conflicts of interest regarding the agenda items.
The minutes from previous meetings were officially filed and made available on the city's website. No further follow-up actions were required.
No questions were submitted by the public during this session.
Representatives from the Ministry of Immigration (MIFI) presented the 'Accompagnement Québec' program, a free service that helps immigrants integrate into Quebec society through personalized action plans. The discussion covered eligibility, the role of integration agents, and current challenges in the Outaouais region, such as long wait times for French-language training.
A researcher from the Université du Québec en Outaouais (UQO) presented findings on factors that help immigrants settle permanently outside of Montreal. The discussion highlighted Gatineau's status as a major immigration hub and explored the challenges immigrants face regarding employment, housing costs, and the need for long-term retention strategies.
City staff presented a new urban outdoor action plan aimed at improving access to outdoor activities, parks, and waterfronts. The commission discussed the importance of making these spaces inclusive for diverse groups, including immigrants, by improving signage, safety, and accessibility to facilities like parks and riverbanks.
Accueil-Parrainage Outaouais (APO) reviewed a project designed to help neighborhood associations better support newcomers. The initiative aims to provide these local groups with the tools and training necessary to foster integration at the community level.
The commission reviewed its 2024-2025 work plan, noting that all objectives were met across seven major files, including social inclusion, political representation, and diversity. The report will be formally submitted to the municipal council on October 2.
No items were discussed under Varia.
The schedule for 2026 meetings will be determined following the municipal elections.
The meeting was adjourned at 12:07 p.m.