Probable destruction of the Deschênes Rapids ruins?

Sylvie Filion

Howard Powles, Deschênes Resident Association president, wonders what lies ahead. On the one hand, prudent urban planning would be investing $45,000 to preserve the historical value of the Deschênes Rapids site. But, he says, “We have been hearing rumors that, for security reasons, the ruins of the old hydro-power dam could be destroyed. But, these rumors are coming from here and there without proof.”

According to Mr. Powles, if the rumors were confirmed, “this would be nonsense. The costs of dynamiting and removing the remaining rocks would be huge, but we have no solid statistics to back this.

“We have heard that the security issue is based on drowning statistics held by the city, but we do not have these numbers in hand,” declares Mr. Powles.

“All we know is that things are going on and being discussed in a mysterious way. All we have are rumors! It would be way better and less expensive to secure the shore and build lookouts,” he concludes.

(Trans.: CB)