Normand Lester

Normand Lester is a Quebec investigative journalist and author known for coverage of Canadian security agencies, military affairs, and international politics.

Normand Lester is a Quebec investigative journalist and author known for his coverage of Canadian security agencies, military affairs, and international politics. He rose to prominence with the 2001 publication of *Le Livre noir du Canada anglais* (*The Black Book of English Canada*), a book that sparked significant controversy and debate. Lester began his journalism career in 1964 and spent much of his career at Radio-Canada.

Early life and education

Normand Lester was born in 1945 in Quebec. Publicly available biographical sources emphasize the start of his journalism career rather than detailed information about his education.

Journalism career

Lester began working as a journalist in 1964 and joined Radio-Canada in 1966. He reported from several major international postings, including Vietnam, the Middle East, Paris, Ottawa, Washington, and the United Nations in New York. He later became known for investigative work on Canadian security and military institutions, such as CSIS, the RCMP, and the Canadian Forces.

Books and controversy

Lester wrote a number of books, including works on Gerald Bull and secret services, but *Le Livre noir du Canada anglais* brought him the greatest attention. The book was described as polemical and generated controversy for its critical portrayal of English Canada and Canadian political history.

Later media work

After his long television career, Lester continued as a commentator and columnist in Quebec media. He worked as a columnist and radio commentator, including on 98.5 FM, and wrote for Le Journal de Québec, focusing on international affairs and politics.

Recognition

Lester received the Olivar-Asselin Prize for investigative journalism and was also awarded a medal by the National Assembly of Quebec, according to biographical sources.