GATINEAU LAUNCHES ITS POLICY ON SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT

Gatineau, June 20, 2011. – Ville de Gatineau today launched its new policy on social development at a reception that was attended by its partners who are involved in the process of achieving a social structure that is both sustainable and human.

It should be pointed out that the core principles of this policy are based on the following six orientations:
• the neighbourhood as a pole of development for Gatineau's urban villages and rural environments;
• access to affordable and quality housing;
• consolidation of public transit and diversification of transportation modes;
• health and well-being central to quality of life and education as the foundation of economic and social development;
• recognition of the specific roles of Gatineau and the Outaouais as border regions; and
• support for community action.

"This new policy on social development will help to better keep Gatineau's actions focused on social cohesion. I am proud to emphasize that there will be a four-year action plan for this policy, and, eventually, an annual envelope of more than $1 million. Gatineau is committed to taking tangible steps towards promoting a living environment that is ever more conducive to the growth of individuals in their community," indicated Gatineau Mayor Marc Bureau.

The Chair of the Commission Gatineau, Ville en santé, Denise Laferrière, pointed out that social development is necessary for a vital community. "A healthy city must foster inclusion and validate the contributions of all of its residents. For this, we must create living environments that are conducive to the growth of people, ensure complementarity in the health and education fields, facilitate access to services and fight poverty."

The final version of the policy on social development was adopted by the Municipal Council in December 2010.

For additional information about the policy on social development, visit www.gatineau.ca.