Environment Minister Pascale Déry has officially mandated the Bureau d’audiences publiques sur l’environnement (BAPE) to hold a public review regarding a proposed land-based recirculating aquaculture facility in the Regional County Municipality (RCM) of Pontiac.
The project, spearheaded by Samonix Inc., triggers the environmental impact assessment and review procedure under Quebec's Environment Quality Act.
Key Details of the BAPE Mandate
Start Date: The BAPE's mandate officially begins on August 24, 2026.
Purpose: The public hearings are designed to give citizens and local stakeholders a direct voice in the environmental evaluation, helping shape the final recommendations submitted to the government.
How the Public Hearings Work
The public review process typically unfolds in two distinct parts, separated by at least 21 days:
Part One (Information Session): Open to the public to question the BAPE inquiry commission and gather additional details about the project.
Part Two (Submissions & Opinions): Dedicated to hearing from individuals, groups, and organizations wishing to present written briefs or share their opinions and suggestions.
Note: The inquiry commission reserves the right to cancel the second part if no requests to present briefs or express opinions are submitted.
Contact Information
For official inquiries regarding the Ministry’s environmental review process:
Address: Édifice Marie-Guyart, 30e étage, 675, boulevard René-Lévesque Est, Québec (Québec) G1R 5V7
Phone: 418-521-3911
Email: ministre@environnement.gouv.qc.ca
Website: www.environnement.gouv.qc.ca