Integration News
Saint-Augustin-de-Desmaures takes an Inno-Techno Security approach

The zone will prioritize the establishment of companies specializing in the development of all facets of security-related technology and equipment. Saint-Augustin will draw on the many resources and organizations within its territory to create this security ecosystem; a first in the province of Quebec. The combination of such winning conditions is unique in Quebec.

The announcement was made today by Marcel Corriveau, Mayor of Saint-Augustin-de-Desmaures, accompanied by Deputy Premier and Minister of Public Security in Quebec, Lise Thériault, and Sam Hamad, Minister of Labour and Minister responsible for the Capitale-Nationale region.

“As Minister of Public Security, I look forward to the arrival of companies that will improve and enhance the supply of services and products in the field of security. This clustering of innovative businesses will also contribute to enhancing our understanding of the challenges facing us,” stated Minister Thériault.

“The creation of this zone will attract new companies and contribute to the emergence of an ecosystem conducive to innovation in the François-Leclerc Nord industrial park. It will also strengthen the position of the city of Saint-Augustin-de-Desmaures and the Capitale-Nationale region as a centre of excellence in higher learning, technology and innovation in security. The companies that establish themselves here will benefit from a competitive business environment, a large concentration of cutting edge businesses and, above all, an experienced and skilled labour force,” indicated Minister Sam Hamad.

For the Mayor of Saint-Augustin-de-Desmaures, the creation of the Inno-Techno Security zone is a natural outcome. The city is a leader in civil security and recently adopted a civil security plan, cited as an example. The Inno-Techno Security zone will serve new means to achieve ongoing improvement. “Our announcement today is in line with a long tradition of industrial and economic development, not only for the benefit of Saint-Augustin, but also for the region at large,” he added.

Creating winning conditions
The initiative taken by Saint-Augustin-de-Desmaures will allow companies to develop and operate in a unique environment. They will be located close to Campus Notre-Dame-de-Foy, its civil security research and innovation centre, emergency measures coordination centre and multisite training and simulation premises. They will also be in close proximity to the Parc technologique du Québec Métropolitain, CRIQ, Laval University research centres and Defence Research and Development Canada – Valcartier.
For Guy Dufour, Campus Notre-Dame-de-Foy director and president of the Association de Sécurité Civile du Québec, “the proximity of stakeholders and resources will contribute to cooperation, synergy and partnerships leading to further innovation in all spheres of activity related to the rapidly evolving sector of security.”

Market value
The great ice storm, fire at L’Isle-Verte, train derailment in Lac-Mégantic, increasingly frequent flooding and heightened risk of terrorist attacks are but a few events that are forcing our societies to better develop their resources to ensure the safety of people and property. The initiative taken by Saint-Augustin-de-Desmaures is perfectly aligned with the orientations of Quebec’s new 2014-2024 civil security policy.

A choice location
According to the city’s director of economic development, Vahé Kasapoglu, the François-Leclerc Nord industrial park is a choice location. It is situated near the airport, major highways and the Port of Quebec. It will also allow exchanges with companies located in the François-Leclerc Sud industrial park. Natural gas and fibre optic links, the proximity of emergency services, a stable hydroelectric power source and high soil bearing capacity will allow companies of all sizes to prosper.

The city plans to develop the park and ensure that all infrastructures are integrated harmoniously into the environment through the protection and enhancement of sensitive habitats. A two-kilometre bicycle path will be accessible. Workers and the population will be able to take advantage of these developed spaces.

An industrial park that benefited from assistance
The creation of the François-Leclerc Nord industrial park and the Inno-Techno Security zone to occupy some 40% of available space were made possible through a financial contribution from the Government of Quebec in 2012. The Government of Quebec agreed to pay 50% of the investments, up to a total of $14 million, through Quebec’s department of municipal affairs and territorial occupation (MAMOT). Quebec’s department of transport paid $2,113,000 for the layout and construction of the Highway 40 access ramps leading to the site.  

Promotion of the Inno-Techno Security zone
In months to come, Saint-Augustin-de-Desmaures and its partners will focus on promoting the originality and exclusive character of the municipality’s approach to creating a dynamic venue for disciplines related to security. The city will also share its expertise with other municipalities concerned about increasing security within their territory.

Interested parties may refer to the city’s website (www.ville.st-augustin.qc.ca) to contact Mr. Vahé Kasapoglu.