Thank you, Chair.
This is also my first time appearing as a witness before a committee.
Following representations we made in 2022 during consultations held by the Federal Electoral Boundaries Commission for Quebec, the latter published its report in February 2023. It refers to a consolidation by the commissioners of the identity and territorial boundaries of Rosemont‑Est in the federal representation of Hochelaga. However, no name change was made and no explanation was provided. As my colleague said, Rosemont‑Est has been part of the riding of Hochelaga since 1988, but half the population in that riding is not represented by that name, hence the confusion with my colleague from Rosemont—La Petite‑Patrie.
The argument used for not changing the names is the need to avoid repetition. However, let me share some examples of name changes found in the rest of the country. Take for example Edmonton‑Centre, Edmonton—Manning and Edmonton—Mill Woods—Beaumont. There is also Burnaby‑North—Seymour and Burnaby‑South, as well as Winnipeg‑Centre and Winnipeg‑North. I think that respect for the identity of the name also refers to the people it represents. This is extremely important to us.
Like the good student I was in school — it is not true, I was not a good student — I would like to go over the questions you sent us and answer them in a structured way.
You asked us for the reason behind our opposition. As I said, it is the name of the riding of Hochelaga. It is truly a big win for people's identity to see the name Rosemont‑Est become part of the name of the riding. This name received the support of the community, including of the Rosemont Community Development Corporation, an umbrella organization representing all the community organizations in the neighbourhood, as well as of the mayor of the Rosemont—La Petite Patrie borough, François Limoges. The name will not have demographic consequences other than the boundary and consolidation of the neighbourhood on which the commissioners have already made their statement in their reports. There will be no domino effect on the surrounding ridings. I have no other argument to make than the one I already presented to the commissioner, to which no one objected.
I think we need to strengthen the sense of belonging. Only the boundary is at play here. There is also the identity question of the name of the riding. Half the territory that is represented is not represented by its name. Again, this causes confusion among the constituents in the neighbouring sector, that of my colleague.
Our letter of objection is supported by some of my colleagues. Several MPs signed it, including, of course, the member for the neighbouring riding. Our logic is not partisan and seeks to ensure that the entire territory and the people who are represented are also represented by the name of their riding.
Thank you, Chair.
Honourable colleagues, I thank you for your attention.