New riding in Drummondville, Quebec, brings focus back to hospital replacement

Drummondville, Que., has gained a new provincial riding, giving local residents stronger representation at Quebec’s National Assembly. The change comes as the city continues to grow and split into two ridings, with the western part now covered by MarieLacosteGérinLajoie. Local officials say the new map better reflects the population increase in the area, but health care remains the main concern. Residents and community leaders want the longdiscussed replacement of SainteCroix Hospital to stay on the agenda after the election. The current hospital is described as aging, too small, and affected by serious infrastructure problems, including flooding and water leaks. A new hospital project was added to Quebec’s infrastructure plan in March, and the province has also approved plans for a modular emergency department. Still, community advocates say they want clearer commitments from the next government and faster progress on the project.