Government highlights investments in defence infrastructure in Quebec

Every year technology changes and advances in a variety of ways. In response to the changes in technology, the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) is advancing with it. As per Canada’s defence policy, Strong, Secure, Engaged, the Government of Canada provides CAF servicemen and women with modern facilities to work and train, so they have the opportunity to advance as well.

“The Canadian Armed Forces is an essential part of our community in Sainte-Foy, and I’m pleased to see the positive results of these projects in supporting our military, as well as the related economic benefits for our region,” said Joël Lightbound, Member of Parliament for Louis-Hébert, in a press release issued July 6.

Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development, for Harjit S. Sajjan, Defence Minister; and Lightbound, took part in a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of a new armoury in Sainte-Foy, Que. This project represented a $22-million investment in Reserve infrastructure and economic benefits for the local community, creating about 50 jobs during the construction phase. The project was contracted to Pomerleau Inc.

“Modern and functional infrastructure is at the core of a strong and engaged military. The new armoury will provide much-needed space to support the 35e Régiment du Génie de combat, and the new logistics support facility will become increasingly essential as we move forward with procurement outlined in Strong, Secure, and Engaged,” said Defence Minister Sajjan in a press release issued July 6.

Boasting 4,000-m2, the new armoury provides the 35e Régiment du Génie de combat with the needed space to train and conduct operations effectively. The building features two floors and includes storage areas, office space, classrooms, and a parade area.

The construction phase for 430 Tactical Helicopter Squadron’s logistics support unit began in May 2018 at Base Valcartier. The $11.5-million project will present a new 1,849-m2 building to consolidate the group in one location, enhancing its ability to support the Squadron’s operations; and create 48 jobs until the project’s end in early 2022. The project was contracted to Construction Côté et Fils Inc.

“These infrastructure projects represent an investment in providing the women and men of the Canadian Armed Forces with modern and functional facilities in which they can effectively carry out their work,” said Duclos in a press release issued July 6.

Together, these projects will contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions from Defence buildings and non-military vehicles by 40 percent (from 2005 levels) by 2030.

Feature photo;

Image tech (photo credit): Cpl Matthieu Racette, Imagery section, Valcartier.

From left to right :

Major-General Sylvain Sirois, Chief of Staff at Assistant Deputy Minister (Infrastructure & Environment) and Chief Military Engineer; Joel Lightbound, Member of Parliament for the riding of Louis-Hébert and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Finance; The Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development; Lieutenant-Colonel Martin Lessard, Commanding Officer of the 35 Canadian Engineer Regiment; Chief Warrant Officer Richard Roger, Regimental Sergeant-Major of the 35 Canadian Engineer Regiment; Colonel Richard Garon, Commander of 35 Canadian Brigade Group; and Chief Warrant Officer Donald Pelletier, staff officer at 35 CBG and future Brigade Sergeant Major of 35 Canadian Brigade Group.