Premier Fréchette Announces Regional Resource and Industrial Slate in Roberval

ROBERVAL, QC — Premier Christine Fréchette visited the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region Thursday afternoon, officially introducing the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) candidates for the upcoming provincial elections while outlining an economic strategy to support northern resource-dependent communities.

Forestry Modernization and Hydroelectric Supply

Speaking at a wood processing innovation center in Roberval, Premier Fréchette announced a proposed $220 million regional economic envelope dedicated to modernizing northern sawmills, supporting bio-mass energy production, and guaranteeing stable Hydro-Québec industrial power blocks for regional metallurgical and aluminum smelters. The Premier stressed that sustainable regional economic development requires decentralizing economic development funding directly to MRC municipal regional county councils.

Fréchette addressed recent trade tensions with the United States, confirming that Quebec will vigorously protect its domestic supply-managed agricultural sectors and forestry export quotas in ongoing bilateral negotiations.

Regional Municipalities and Labor Priorities

Regional union leaders from Unifor and the FTQ participated in roundtable discussions with the Premier, highlighting the urgency of immediate loan guarantees and silvicultural employment programs to stabilize small resource towns experiencing fluctuating international timber demand.

Municipal mayors from Roberval and Saint-Félicien welcomed the government's commitment to maintaining local healthcare and maternity services in peripheral hospitals.

Campaign Itinerary in Central Quebec

The Premier’s regional tour will continue Friday with economic roundtable sessions in Alma and Chicoutimi.