ArcelorMittal and the Port of Sept-Îles sign a mutual collaboration agreement

Sept-Îles, January 23, 2025 — Pierre D. Gagnon, President and CEO of the Port of Sept-Îles (PSI), and Michael Labrie, Executive Director of ArcelorMittal Infrastructure Canada, ratified a mutual collaboration agreement on January 23 at the traditional new year reception that brought together stakeholders from both organizations.

This was the first time that the event to mark the new year was organized jointly, and it was a fitting opportunity for both leaders to announce the agreement. The event also included the ceremony for handing over the characteristic canes to the first ships of the year to enter the ports of Sept-Îles and Port-Cartier.

According to the two representatives, their respective operations routinely involve a number of similar realities and issues, which create opportunities for their employees to share information and ideas to enhance best practices, particularly in terms of operations and the environment. The agreement will also facilitate the development of channels for communication and information sharing to support various research and development initiatives“.

We are proud to have a trusted partner like the Port of Sept-Îles,” said Mapi Mobwano, Chair of the ArcelorMittal Infrastructure Canada Management Committee. “By combining our expertise, we will be able to make even faster technological advances that will position the Port-Cartier/Sept-Îles zone as a true centre of excellence.”

“More than ever, the industrial sectors of Sept-Îles and Port-Cartier are looking to work closely together to maximize economic development in the region,” added Pierre D. Gagnon, President and CEO of the Port of Sept-Îles. “This collaboration agreement is therefore the logical continuation of efforts already underway for the industrial and port zone of Port-Cartier/Sept-Îles. Today, we are formalizing the beginning of a stronger relationship that will be mutually beneficial not only for our organizations but also for our communities.”

The combined operations of the two main bulk ports in eastern Canada, PSI and ArcelorMittal, represent almost half of the volume of the St. Lawrence maritime corridor and about 15% of the value of Quebec’s annual exports.

About ArcelorMittal Infrastructure Canada and ArcelorMittal Mining Canada

Subsidiaries of ArcelorMittal, a leading steel company and one of the five biggest iron ore producers in the world, ArcelorMittal Infrastructure Canada (AMIC) and ArcelorMittal Mining Canada (AMMC) are two complementary companies operating in Quebec’s North Shore region. AMIC transports concentrate between Mont-Wright and Port-Cartier and operates a seaport in Port-Cartier to transport and deliver AMMC products on across four continents. AMMC produces concentrate and iron oxide pellets for the steel market. The two companies employ 2,800 people, making ArcelorMittal the biggest employer on the North Shore.

About the Port of Sept-Îles
Boasting diverse, state-of-the-art facilities, the Port of Sept-Îles is North America’s largest ore-handling port, with a projected volume for 2025 of more than 40 million metric tons. It is also recognized as the largest primary aluminum port terminal in the Americas in terms of operational volume. In 2024, he is the winner of the award for Best Port Specialized in Bulk Solid at the “IBJ Awards.”The facilities at the Port of Sept-Îles play a vital and strategic role in the economy of Eastern Canada. The Port is also deeply committed to sustainable development and has pioneered the first environmental observatory on the St. Lawrence to monitor the marine ecosystem as well as a research chair with Université Laval to study coastal ecosystems and port operations.

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Sources:

Frédérick J. Tétreault
Communications and Public Relations Director
Port of Sept-Îles
Phone: 418-965-3764
ftetreault@portsi.com

Annie Paré
Communications Director
ArcelorMittal Infrastructure Canada
annie.pare@arcelormittal.com

 

THE SEPT-ÎLES PORT AUTHORITY AND ITS PRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER BEGIN A PORT MANAGEMENT TRANSITION

Sept-Îles, January 20, 2025 – The Sept-Îles Port Authority (SIPA) announced today that it and its President and CEO, Pierre D. Gagnon, have agreed to launch a planned transition process for the Port’s management following the decision by the President and CEO to retire in early 2026, after 24 years at the helm.

The administration and management team will soon launch a call for talent to designate his successor to ensure business continuity and port development in accordance with the organization’s values and culture. Go HR has been retained for the hiring process and will proceed with the required messages and postings.

“One of my top priorities for 2025 will be to work with the board of directors to orchestrate a fruitful transition to select a leader for a truly exceptional team and organization. I have the highest respect and deepest gratitude for all team members, because together we experienced significant and structuring growth over the last two decades. It is really important for me to provide them with the best possible leadership and knowledge transfer to keep them focused on growth and preserve our values of respect for our users, communities and the environment. There are great opportunities on the horizon for this young team that can count on my full support during this transition,” said Mr. Gagnon.

“Since the Canada Marine Act provides that the Board of Directors is responsible for selecting the CEO of a Canadian port authority, SIPA’s Board will therefore select who will fill the position in the coming months. The board of directors has ensured that Mr. Gagnon can continue to manage all Port activities and projects until his successor is appointed,” added Bernard Lynch, Chair of SIPA’s Board of Directors.

About the Port of Sept-Îles

Boasting diverse, state-of-the-art facilities, the Port of Sept-Îles is North America’s largest ore-handling port, with a projected volume for 2025 of over 40 million metric tons. It is also recognized as the largest primary aluminum port terminal in the Americas in terms of operational volume. The facilities at the Port of Sept-Îles play a vital and strategic role in the economy of Eastern Canada. The Port is also deeply committed to sustainable development and has pioneered the first environmental observatory on the St. Lawrence to monitor the marine ecosystem, as well as a research chair with Université Laval to study coastal ecosystems and port operations.

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Source:

Frédérick Jolicoeur-Tétreault
Director, Communications and public relations
Port of Sept-Îles
Tel. : 418 965-3764
ftetreault@portsi.com

For the first time, the Multiuser Dock at the Port of Sept-Îles hosts the first ship of the year

Sept-Îles, January 8, 2025 — Sailing from Rotterdam in the Netherlands, M/V Frontier Jasmine was the first ship to enter the Port of Sept-Îles (PSI) in 2025. Her arrival was recorded at 7:06 a.m. on January 1. The vessel was moored at the Multiuser Dock on the night of January 6 to be loaded with high-purity iron ore from the Quebec Iron Ore (QIO).

In keeping with tradition, it was on Wednesday, January 8 at about 10 a.m. that the prestigious cane with its characteristic head made of aluminum and iron ore was passed to the Korean captain, Lim Chungsu. The brief ceremony was held for the first time at the Multiuser Dock at the Port of Sept-Îles in the presence of Pierre Gagnon, PSI President and CEO; Bernard Lynch, Chairman of the PSI Board of Directors; Louis Thériault, Director of Logistics, Integrated Planning and Transportation at QIO; and Denis Miousse, Mayor of the City of Sept-Îles. The dignitaries took advantage of the occasion to present gifts to Captain Chungsu and his crew.

The captain expressed his thanks and said he was impressed by the warm welcome and generosity of the region. He said he hopes to return soon to the Port of Sept-Îles.

The 292-metre ocean-going vessel, which flies the flag of the Marshall Islands and was built in 2022, will be moving on along with its crew for a 60-day trip to the Japanese port of Oita, carrying 173,000 metric tons of high-purity iron concentrate.

The tradition of the cane, now in its 38th year, celebrates the first ship to drop anchor in PSI waters each year and highlights the impact of port activities in the community. To be eligible, ships must arrive directly from abroad and leave for a foreign port.

About the Port of Sept-Îles unique cane

In 2012, on the 25th anniversary of the cane ceremony, the traditional gold-headed cane got a makeover, with an exclusive new design showcasing the region’s resources. Inspired by a 3D version of the Port of Sept-Îles logo, the polished anodized aluminum cane is reminiscent of the blue highway. The redesigned pommel contains a fragment of iron ore whose luster is reflected in a hemisphere of acrylic. It also features a distinctive gold element: the seven-star Port of Sept-Îles logo representing the seven islands in Sept-Îles Bay has been painstakingly reproduced in 10-karat gold.

About the Port of Sept-Îles

Boasting diverse, state-of-the-art facilities, the Port of Sept-Îles is North America’s largest ore-handling port, with a projected volume for 2025 of more than 40 million metric tons. It is also recognized as the largest primary aluminum port terminal in the Americas in terms of operational volume. The facilities at the Port of Sept-Îles play a vital and strategic role in the economy of Eastern Canada. The Port is also deeply committed to sustainable development and has pioneered the first environmental observatory on the St. Lawrence to monitor the marine ecosystem as well as a research chair with Université Laval to study coastal ecosystems and port operations.

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Source:

Frédérick Tétreault
Director of Communications and Public Relations, Port of Sept-Îles
Phone: 418-965-3764
ftetreault@portsi.com

First ship of 2025 at the Port of Sept-Îles: three ships in the race for the first time ever

Sept-Îles, January 3, 2025 — The Port of Sept-Îles (PSI) rang in the new year with a bang, with two unprecedented events. Not one, but three ships sailed into the port on the morning of January 1 and for the first time the Multiuser Dock hosted the first ship of the year.

At 7:06 a.m. on January 1, the Frontier Jasmine, carrying high-purity iron concentrate from Quebec Iron Ore (QIO), was the first ship to drop anchor in the bay of Sept-Îles in 2025. The moment was particularly significant for QIO, the main user of the terminal and a major shipper for the Port.

It was a competitive race, as the Iron Ore of Canada’s Siboney M was close behind, arriving at 8:00 a.m. To top it all off, the Mildred of Tacora Resources checked in at 11:36 a.m. Having three ships arrive on January 1 within hours of each other was an unprecedented event for the Port of Sept-Îles.

As per tradition, the PSI will award the prestigious “first ship” cane to the captain of the Frontier Jasmine when it docks for loading between January 8 and 11, 2025. The annual event marks the arrival of the first ship of the year to anchor in the Port’s waters and highlights the importance of port activities for the community. To be eligible, the ship must arrive directly from a foreign port and be bound for a destination outside the country.

The presence of nearly 15 vessels in the bay that morning is a sign that operations have gotten off to a great start in 2025. So the PSI is getting ready for a busy year, both in terms of tonnage and activity, reinforcing its status as the leading mineral port in North America in the wake of its recent international recognition from International Bulk Journal as “Best Dry Bulk Port 2024.”

About the Port of Sept-Îles

Boasting diverse, state-of-the-art facilities, the Port of Sept-Îles is North America’s largest ore-handling port, with a projected volume for 2025 of more than 40 million metric tons. It is also recognized as the largest primary aluminum port terminal in the Americas in terms of operational volume. The facilities at the Port of Sept-Îles play a vital and strategic role in the economy of Eastern Canada. The Port is also deeply committed to sustainable development and has pioneered the first environmental observatory on the St. Lawrence to monitor the marine ecosystem as well as a research chair with Université Laval to study coastal ecosystems and port operations.

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Source:

Charlie Desjardins
Office Automation and Digital Management Technician
Port of Sept-Îles
Tel. : 418 961-1221
cdesjardins@portsi.com

Chair in Coastal Ecosystems and Industrial, Port, and Maritime Activities (ÉcoZone Chair): The Port of Sept-Îles Rewards Five Students

Sept-Îles, December 17, 2024 — The Port of Sept-Îles (PSI), the Faculty of Forestry, Geography and Geomatics (FFGG), and the Faculty of Science and Engineering (FSE) at Université Laval announced the winners of the ÉcoZone Achievement Awards on December 17, 2024, at a ceremony in the Gene-H.-Kruger Pavilion at Université Laval. The scholarships, which can total up to $50,000, reward students who have chosen to include the Bay of Sept-Îles in their master’s or doctoral research project.

To create the ÉcoZone Achievement Awards, presented upon thesis submission, the Port of Sept-Îles donated $50,000 to a fund under the Philanthropy and Alumni Relations Department of Université Laval. This new move also recognizes the port authority’s important contributions to the advancement of knowledge, promoting the sustainable management of coastal ecosystems affected by port, industrial, and maritime activities in Sept-Îles.

“On behalf of the Port of Sept-Îles, we would like to congratulate the recipients and graduates on their academic perseverance and thank them for their interest in one of North America’s most beautiful bays. We would also like to congratulate the Chair and her co-holder, respectively Émilie Saulnier-Talbot and Philippe Archambault, on the success and impact of the ÉcoZone Chair and the wealth of scientific knowledge acquired since its launch,” said PSI president and CEO Pierre D. Gagnon.

“The outstanding research training conditions created by the ÉcoZone Chair and its ÉcoZone Achievement Awards have helped us attract some of the most promising academic talent at Université Laval and internationally. The team’s research has demonstrated the scientific interest of Sept-Îles in better understanding the effects of rapid global change on coastal ecosystems,” said Émilie Saulnier-Talbot.

”The success of the ÉcoZone Chair students shows just how important this type of partnership between stakeholders can be in providing high-quality training for the next generation of scientists in Quebec,” added Chair co-holder Philippe Archambault.

Four master’s students and one doctoral candidate received awards:

  • Neha Joshi, PhD in Geography (FFGG)
    Assessing the historical anthropogenic impacts and current foraminiferal diversity in the Bay of Sept-Îles (Canada) using multi-proxy analysis and bioindicator approaches
  • Charlène Lefebvre, Master’s in Biology (FSE)
    Assessing the potential of pigments as bioindicators of bacterial and algal diversity in an anthropized environment (Bay of Sept-Îles, Quebec)
  • Sabrina Allard, Master’s in Geography (FFGG)
    Understanding winter ecosystems of subarctic port areas: The microbiome and diatoms of the Bay of Sept-Îles (Quebec, Canada)
  • Lydiane Bélanger, Master’s in Biology (FSE)
    Spatial and temporal analysis of microbial diversity in the Bay of Sept-Îles, Quebec
  • Patricia Cloutier-Maden, Master’s in Geography (FFGG)
    Paleotempestological study of the Gulf of the north shore of the Gulf of St. Lawrence

The awards come almost five years after the launch of the Chair in Coastal Ecosystems and Industrial, Port, and Maritime Activities (ÉcoZone Chair) by PSI, Université Laval, and the Northern Institute for Research in Environment and Occupational Health and Safety (INREST). PSI and INREST respectively confirmed annual contributions of $100,000 over five years to support the establishment and research work of the Chair.

”On behalf of Université Laval, I would like to sincerely thank the Port of Sept-Îles for its generous donation of $50,000 towards the creation of the ÉcoZone Achievement Award. This award encourages the next generation to undertake research as part of the Chair, and to disseminate knowledge about coastal ecosystems and port, industrial, and maritime activities. We are privileged to have a partner like the Port of Sept-Îles, with its strong commitment to research and philanthropy,” said Caroline Girard, Chief of the Philanthropy and Alumni Relations Department.

The ÉcoZone Chair’s mission is to improve knowledge of the functioning of coastal ecosystems in industrial and port areas, with a view to identifying sustainable management practices in these environments. More specifically, its objectives are to measure the footprint of human activities associated with industrial and port areas, to describe and quantify the impact of these activities on various sectors of the coastline, to develop methods and tools for distinguishing the effects of major natural environmental changes from those associated with human activities, and to advise and support organizations in planning and implementing sustainable solutions for adapting to the problems identified.

About the Port of Sept-Îles
Boasting diverse, state-of-the-art facilities, the Port of Sept-Îles is North America’s largest ore-handling port, with a projected volume for 2024 of more than 40 million metric tons. It is also recognized as the largest primary aluminum port terminal in the Americas in terms of operational volume. The facilities at the Port of Sept-Îles play a vital and strategic role in the economy of Eastern Canada. The Port is also deeply committed to sustainable development and has pioneered the first environmental observatory on the St. Lawrence to monitor the marine ecosystem as well as a research chair with Université Laval to study coastal ecosystems and port operations.

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Sources:

Frédérick Jolicoeur-Tétreault
Communications and Public Relations Director
Port of Sept-Îles
Phone: 418-965-3764
ftetreault@portsi.com

Émilie Saulnier-Talbot, PhD
Assistant Professor
Departments of Biology and Geography
Research Chair in Coastal Ecosystems and Industrial, Port, and Maritime Activities (ÉcoZone Chair)
Phone: 418-656-2131, ext. 412301
emilie.saulnier-talbot@bio.ulaval.ca

 

Consolidating port cooperation: Saguenay and Sept-Îles join the three St. Lawrence ports agreement

Montreal, October 22, 2024 — The port authorities of Montreal, Quebec City and Trois-Rivières are pleased to announce the broadening of their cooperation agreement, initiated in 2022, to jointly strengthen the St. Lawrence corridor. As of October 22, on Quebec Marine Day, the port authorities of Saguenay and Sept-Îles are uniting in the cooperation dynamics through the signing a new, expanded cooperation agreement.

Integrating the ports of Saguenay and Sept-Îles marks a decisive move to create an extended marine corridor along the Saguenay and St. Lawrence rivers, consolidating their shared goal of increasing performance, resilience and efficiency. This partnership highlights the vital role that ports play to keep international and interprovincial trade competitive.

The partners in this agreement will meet regularly to align their strategies and optimize operations. Areas of focus will include environmental innovation, supply chain optimization, managing the impacts of climate change, as well as communications and community relations. This agreement, based on collaborative governance, confirms the ports’ commitment to work together for the economic benefit of their regions, the province of Quebec and Canada.

Quotes

“This expanded agreement furthers our efforts to create a more competitive and integrated marine corridor. We are thrilled to welcome Saguenay and Sept-Îles, and by doing so, reinforcing our shared vision of a robust and proactive port network,” said Julie Gascon, Mario Girard and Gaétan Boivin, respectively President and CEO of the port authorities of Montreal, Québec and Trois-Rivières.

“The ports of the Saguenay—St. Lawrence Marine Corridor are essential to the smooth functioning of the North American economy and supply chains. They share common interests, situations and challenges. Increased cooperation and exchanges between our port authorities will enhance current practices, particularly in terms of sustainable development, drive innovation and make shipping even more efficient.” — Carl Laberge, President and CEO of the Port of Saguenay and Pierre D. Gagnon, President and CEO of the Port of Sept-Îles.


About the Port of Montreal

Operated by the Montreal Port Authority (MPA), the Port of Montreal is the largest container port in Eastern Canada and a diversified transshipment centre that handles all types of goods: containerized and non-containerized cargo, liquid bulk and dry bulk. The only container port in Quebec, it is a destination port served by the largest shipping lines in the world. It is also an intermodal hub with a service offering that is unique in North America, featuring its own rail network directly dockside connected to Canada’s two national rail networks. The MPA also operates a Cruise Terminal and a Port Centre.

The MPA factors economic, social and environmental components into its corporate initiatives. This commitment is governed by a sustainable development policy whose guiding principles focus on involvement, cooperation and accountability. Port activity in Canada supports some 590,000 jobs and generates $93.5 billion in economic activity.

 

About the Port of Quebec

Among the five largest ports in Canada in terms of tonnage handled and economic benefits, the Port of Québec is strategically located to serve the heart of North America. It is the only port that has both deep-water requirements and complete intermodality. Thus, it is able to receive cargo without constraint from or destined to some fifty countries in order to connect the Quebec, Great Lakes and American Midwest markets to the rest of the world.

About the Port of Trois-Rivières

As part of the 17 Canadian Port Authorities and active since 1882, the Port of Trois-Rivières provides a wide range of facilities and services to the marine industry, year-round. It is an important player in regional, national and international economic development for major industrial sectors such as the aluminum industry, forestry and agri-food. The respect of the highest environmental standards and harmony with the community are essential for the Port of Trois-Rivières. Every year, the Port of Trois-Rivières welcomes some 60,000 trucks, 11,000 railcars and 270 merchant and cruise ships from some 100 ports in over 40 countries around the world. It handles 4.2 million metric tons of traffic, is responsible for nearly $220 million in economic spin-offs, and generates over 2,000 direct, indirect and induced jobs.

About the Port of Saguenay

A strategic intermodal hub and one of Canada’s 17 port authorities, the Port of Saguenay is a year-round deepwater port with direct access to the North American rail and highway networks. It is renowned for its operational efficiency and high capacity for receiving and shipping dry and liquid bulk goods. The Port of Saguenay is one of Eastern Canada’s most important shipping terminals for forest biomass to Europe. It is also responsible for international cruise ship operations in Saguenay, the largest port of call on the Saguenay-St. Lawrence axis in terms of ships and passengers received each year. The Port of Saguenay boasts one of the largest industrial port sites in Canada, with nearly 12 square kilometers of land dedicated to large-scale industry adjacent to its marine terminal, developed with a vision focused on the responsible and sustainable growth of its activities.

About the Port of Sept-Îles

Boasting diverse, state-of-the-art facilities, the Port of Sept-Îles is North America’s largest ore-handling port, with a projected volume for 2024 of more than 40 million metric tons. It is also recognized as the largest primary aluminum port terminal in the Americas in terms of operational volume. The facilities at the Port of Sept-Îles play a vital and strategic role in the economy of Eastern Canada. The Port is also deeply committed to sustainable development and has pioneered the first environmental observatory on the St. Lawrence to monitor the marine ecosystem as well as a research chair with Université Laval to study coastal ecosystems and port operations.

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SOURCES

Sept-Îles Port Authority
Frédérick Jolicoeur-Tétreault
Director of Communications and Public Relations
ftetreault@portsi.com
418 965-3764

Montreal Port Authority
Renée Larouche
Director of communications
laroucher@port-montreal.com
514 531-2410

Québec Port Authority
Frédéric Lagacé
Communications Director
frederic.lagace@portquebec.ca
418 929-5031


Trois-Rivières Port Authority
Sara Dubé
Vice President, Public Affairs, Partnerships and Human Resourcessara.dube@porttr.com
819 244-7191


Saguenay Port Authority
François St-Gelais
Director, Communications
fstgelais@portsaguenay.ca
418 697-0259 Ext. 217


Sept-Îles Port Authority
Frédérick Jolicoeur-Tétreault
Director of Communications and Public Relations
ftetreault@portsi.com
418 965-3764

 

The Port of Sept-Îles and its partners announce the construction of the Innu signature pavilion

Sept-Îles, June 14, 2024 – The architectural concept and exterior design of this pavilion will be inspired by the Innu culture. From 2025, it will become the permanent reception pavilion for cruise ship passengers who will disembark at the Port of Sept-Îles’ Cruise Ship Dock.

The cruise adventure began in 2007 when the Port of Sept-Îles, Ville de Sept-Îles and Innu Takuaikan Uashat Mak Mani-Utenam reached an agreement to put in place the necessary infrastructure to make Sept-Îles a distinctive cruise ship port of call on the St. Lawrence. This partnership also led to the creation of Destination Sept-Îles Nakauinanu (DSIN), an organization responsible for coordinating the reception of cruise ship passengers.

Seventeen years later, a new permanent reception pavilion became more than necessary to replace the marquee used so far and thus allow the beginning of receiving winter cruise ships in 2025.

This $6.9 million project will be carried out with the financial contribution of the following partners:

  • $3 million – Canada Economic Development
  • $1.7 million – Société du Plan Nord
  • $594,000 – Ministère du Tourisme du Québec
  • $175,000 ($325,000 to come) – Innu Takuaikan Uashat mak Mani-utenam (ITUM)
  • $175,000 – Ville de Sept-Îles
  • $887,000 – Port of Sept-Îles

The project development plans are brought to life by DMG and are inspired by an innovative co-creation process launched in fall 2022. This collaborative approach, involving the stakeholders of the Monseigneur-Blanche district and multiple from the local tourism sector, made it possible to establish the main elements to integrate into this project.

“We must acknowledge the contribution of all the actors who participated in the co-creation process and who allow us today to unveil a unique and representative concept of the only port of call on the St. Lawrence with a flagship product of discovering Innu culture. This new building and its exterior layout also join several priority areas of development resulting from the citizen consultation carried out in fall 2023. This is the first concrete step towards revitalizing the Sept-Îles riverfront,” said Pierre D. Gagnon, President and CEO of the Port of Sept-Îles.

 

 

In addition to the spaces for port of call entertainment, including the area dedicated to artists and artisans, the building will house the DSIN offices. Partners want this place of welcome and exchange to also host various activities to gather and spread local and regional cultures, all year round.

The construction period will begin at the end of June for a delivery of the new cruise ship pavilion in spring 2025. The pavilion’s development plans are available on portsi.com and destinationsept-iles.com.

In parallel, the 2024 port of call season will be in full swing, receiving 13 ships between August 9 and October 24, a record number of ports of call.

Quotes

“ITUM is pleased to know that the Innu culture will be at the forefront of thousands of cruise ship passengers visiting our beautiful region and territory. As a meeting and reception area, we hope that everyone will feel welcome as they land on the Nitassinan and immerse themselves in the culture of Indigenous peoples. The collaboration of all the organizations involved in this project demonstrates our ability to build together.”  — Mike Mckenzie, Chief, Innu Takuaikan Uashat Mak Mani-Utenam

“Our government is committed to supporting Quebec’s tourism industry and advancing reconciliation with Indigenous communities. That is why CED’s financial contribution to Destination Sept-Îles Nakauinanu is excellent news for developing the Côte-Nord and its appeal. Thanks to the Government of Canada’s investments in tourism experiences, we are ready to welcome tourists from around the world. ”
— The Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for CED

“This new permanent reception pavilion will become a focal point for tourism in the Sept-Îles region. The Port of Sept-Îles project will also better welcome visitors, in a site respectful of the region’s cultural diversity, whose richness will be highlighted. The financial assistance granted by Société du Plan Nord will translate into concrete benefits on the ground. This is tangible proof of the positive impact that projects can have for a community. ” — Maïté Blanchette Vézina, Minister of Natural Resources and Forests and Minister responsible for the Société du Plan Nord

“The strong mobilization of our community, Sept-Îles and Uashat Mak Mani-Utenam around this ambitious project is at the heart of the success we are announcing today. It is a pleasure for me to unveil our government’s investment of $2.3 million for the construction of this permanent cruise ship reception pavilion. Much more than a welcoming place, this building is a real gathering space for all of us. ” — Kateri Champagne-Jourdain, Member for Duplessis, Minister of Employment and Minister Responsible for the Côte-Nord

“The construction of this reception pavilion is very good news. Its distinctive architectural signature will highlight the heritage and richness of the Innu culture. Ville de Sept-Îles is proud to be a partner in this project. With this significant investment, the positioning of the Sept-Îles port of call in international cruise circuits is well confirmed, which can only lead to interesting benefits for our community. ” — Denis Miousse, Mayor of Sept-Îles

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About the Port of Sept-Îles

Boasting diverse, state-of-the-art facilities, the Port of Sept-Îles is North America’s largest ore-handling port, with a projected volume for 2024 of more than 40 million metric tons. It is also recognized as the largest primary aluminum port terminal in the Americas in terms of operational volume. The facilities at the Port of Sept-Îles play a vital and strategic role in the economy of Eastern Canada. The Port is also deeply committed to sustainable development and has pioneered the first environmental observatory on the St. Lawrence to monitor the marine ecosystem as well as a research chair with Université Laval to study coastal ecosystems and port operations.

Source:
Frédérick Jolicoeur-Tétreault
Director of Communications and Public Relations,
Port of Sept-Îles
418-965-3764
ftetreault@portsi.com

 

The modernization of the Mgr-Blanche terminal has begun at the Port of Sept-Îles!

Sept-Îles, May 10, 2024 – The Port of Sept-Îles is pleased to announce a $10 million contribution from the federal government for the modernization of the Mgr-Blanche terminal. This announcement confirms the launch of the project, supported by financial contributions from both levels of government.

The Honorable Diane Lebouthillier, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, made the announcement during a press conference at the port facilities on behalf of the Minister of Transport, Pablo Rodriguez. This contribution is part of the National Trade Corridors Fund, a national program aimed at improving trade flows with global markets and enhancing the efficiency and resilience of Canada’s national transportation network.

It should be noted that last December, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport and Sustainable Mobility, Ms. Geneviève Guilbault, and the Minister of Employment, the minister responsible for the Côte-Nord region and MP for Duplessis, Ms. Kateri Champagne Jourdain, also announced a $10 million financial aid under the Maritime Infrastructure Investment Program of the Advantage St. Lawrence Strategy.

The Port of Sept-Îles will complete the project funding with a $10 million contribution, representing one-third of the estimated $30 million project cost. Construction activities are expected to begin at the end of the cruise season in the fall.

Recent studies of the terminal’s 1950s-era structure have shown that it needs to be upgraded to maintain its essential functions and resilience against the effects of climate change. Specifically, during high tide periods, flooding of the terminal is becoming increasingly frequent, jeopardizing:

  • Maritime services of the tugboats required to ensure the safety of bulk carriers’ navigation maneuvers in the port;
  • Activities at the Destination Sept-Îles Nakauinanu cruise stop, the only stop on the Saint Lawrence offering the opportunity to discover the cultural richness of the Innu community of Uashat mak Mani-Utenam.

“The modernization of the Port of Sept-Îles will not only ensure the safety and efficiency of port operations but also create new growth opportunities. This investment will strengthen the Port’s position and benefit local industries and regional economic development,” says the Honorable Pablo Rodriguez, Minister of Transport and Quebec Lieutenant.

“The Port of Sept-Îles plays a leading role in the economy of our city and the entire region. Its facilities are undoubtedly a major strategic asset for attracting new industries to Sept-Îles. In this sense, today’s announcement, which will enable the Port to adapt its infrastructure in response to the challenge of climate change, is excellent news for our community and promises interesting development prospects,” says Denis Miousse, Mayor of Sept-Îles.

“The modernization of the Mgr-Blanche terminal will ensure the reliability and safety of maritime services for our users, as well as secure and sustainable accessibility for this meeting place offering our citizens a unique view of the Sept-Îles Bay. It will provide the largest iron ore port in North America and the second-largest port in the country by activity volume with the quality infrastructure needed to ensure the robustness of its supply chains and support the growth of its exports,” assert Pierre D. Gagnon, President and CEO of the Port of Sept-Îles, and Bernard Lynch, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Port of Sept-Îles.

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The Government of Quebec confirms an investment of 10 M$ for the modernization of the Monseigneur-Blanche terminal at the Port of Sept-Îles.

The Port Authority of Sept-Îles is pleased with the financial support announced today by the Government of Quebec, specifically a contribution of 10 M$ for the modernization of the Monseigneur-Blanche terminal at the Port of Sept-Îles.

The upcoming realization of this CAD 30 million modernization project will notably ensure the reliability of supply chains for the largest mineral port in North America and maintain the activities of the only cruise stop on the St. Lawrence River that features the discovery of Innu culture.

 

The Enviro-Actions project takes place at the Port of Sept-Îles

Sept-Îles, April 11, 2024 – The Port of Sept-Îles and the Centre for Industrial Port Expertise (CEIP, a division of INREST, are pleased to announce, through the Enviro-Actions project, the launch of an innovative near-real-time data collection system.

 On April 3, a scientific buoy with state-of-the-art equipment and technology was set out in the waters of the Port of Sept-Îles. Two other fixed stations, located at the Cruise Ship Dock and the Relance Dock in the Port of Sept-Îles, will complement the equipment set up to collect water quality data for the Bay of Sept-Îles. The objective of data transmission in near real time is to issue alerts in case of exceeding thresholds established according to the Enviro-Actions model and to act in preventive mode.

This flagship project of the Centre for Industrial Port Expertise, which was launched in March 2022, was made possible thanks to the financial support of the Ministère des Transports et de la Mobilité Durable du Québec ($2 million) as part of Advantage St. Lawrence, Quebec’s new maritime vision and the Port of Sept-Îles ($2.5 million) for the demonstration area, the port area of Sept-Îles. The five-year Enviro-Actions project, unique in Quebec, also includes the installation of air quality measurement stations and hydrophones to measure underwater noise produced by commercial vessels and mitigate their adverse impacts on marine wildlife. During the year, awareness and incentives will be added to efforts to reduce underwater noise from anthropogenic sources in the Bay of Sept-Îles.

 

Enviro-Actions Symposium

 The Port of Sept-Îles is also hosting the Enviro-Actions Symposium from May 28 to 30. The event will be presented by the Centre for Industrial Port Expertise, in association with the Quebec Maritime Network, Institut France-Québec maritime and St. Lawrence Economic Development Council, including Jean Lemire, envoy for Quebec’s climate change and biologist by training, kindly accepted the presence of honour.

This event is a unique opportunity for shoreline communities, including those in the region, to learn about the preventive environmental actions implemented by stakeholders in industrial port zones. The Port of Sept-Îles and the Centre for Industrial Port Expertise invite all stakeholders from the research community, industries, environmental organizations, students and citizens to join the event and show their support for the environmental cause (https://www.enviro-actions.com/en).

We also invite all citizens to take this opportunity to come and share their comments on the project and concerns about the environment in a digital vox-pop-type box that will be made available to the public on the event’s web page.


ABOUT THE PORT OF SEPT-ÎLES

Boasting diverse, state-of-the-art facilities, the Port of Sept-Îles is North America’s largest ore-handling port, with a projected volume for 2024 of more than 40 million metric tons. It is also recognized as the largest primary aluminum port terminal in the Americas in terms of operational volume. The facilities at the Port of Sept-Îles play a vital and strategic role in the economy of Eastern Canada. The Port is also deeply committed to sustainable development and has pioneered the first environmental observatory on the St. Lawrence to monitor the marine ecosystem as well as a research chair with Université Laval to study coastal ecosystems and port operations.

ABOUT INREST’S CEIP DIVISION

The Northern Institute for Research in Environment and Occupational Health and Safety directed and implemented the work of the first environmental monitoring observatory in Quebec in the Sept-Îles port zone, which led to the creation of its division, the Centre for Industrial Port Expertise (CEIP). The CEIP’s flagship project is the implementation of the “Enviro-Actions” preventive environmental management model to conserve ecosystems in all port and industrial zones of Quebec’s maritime territory. The Enviro-Actions pilot project includes near-real-time data collection and the issuance of enviro-alerts to managers. New developers will benefit from science-neutral data that promotes social acceptability. This data will reduce the time and cost of collecting certain data required for environmental authorization requests. CEIP’s work is recognized at provincially, nationally and internationally.

QUOTES

“The launch of a scientific buoy combined with the installation of docking stations will enable several water quality parameters in the Bay of Sept-Îles to be monitored in near real time. The INREST team proudly took a major step forward in implementing the Enviro-Actions preventive management model in the port zone thanks all those who participated in the distribution of the buoy and stations. This is a first in Quebec that positions the CEIP and the Port of Sept-Îles as leaders in ensuring sustainable development and the preservation of ecosystems.”

— Julie Carrière, P.Eng. Ph.D., Executive Director, INREST/Centre for Industrial Port Expertise

 

“Marine transportation is the greenest mode for handling goods and commodities, and we, industries and communities, are all dependent on it. It’s up to everyone to protect the ecosystems that support these activities, and the marine industry sector is very proactive in this regard. The Port of Sept-Îles demonstrates its leadership through its major investment in the Enviro-Actions project.”

— Mélissa Sanikopoulos, Director, Environment & Sustainability, Port of Sept-Îles

 

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SOURCE:

Mélissa Sanikopoulos
Director, Environment & Sustainability
Port of Sept-Îles
Phone: 418-961-1222
msanikopoulos@portsi.com