This sub-series chiefly concerns Jean Chrétien's activities as M.P. for the Saint-Maurice riding in the early 1980s, when he also performed ministerial duties. In this regard, a portion of the correspondence was exchanged with other departments and agencies and, accordingly, with Ministers such as: Marc Lalonde, Minister of Energy (1980-1982) and Minister of Finance (1982-1984); and Donald J. Johnston, who successively held during the period 1980-1984 the positions of Minister of State for Economic Development, Minister of State for Science and Technology, and Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada. The sub-series also contains files exclusively concerning Jean Chrétien in his various tasks as Minister.
A large proportion of correspondence concerns, directly and indirectly, the riding's economic development (whether specifically regarding jobs, small and medium-sized business, industry or urban development). Much of it also concerns the Mauricie region, often through various federal support and development programs. The series also concerns Jean Chrétien's activities as M.P. for the riding of Saint-Maurice, where he strove to bolster his electoral support by working closely with constituents. The business of other ridings under the authority of Jean Chrétien, Minister, is also addressed.
A number of files also concern the Liberal Party of Canada and its foothold in different regions, provinces, cities and electoral ridings (especially in Quebec where, following the 1980 referendum, the political situation was perhaps of greater concern than elsewhere).
This sub-series contains correspondence (political, ministerial, and occasionally personal) sent to or from Minister and/or M.P. Jean Chrétien or members of his staff. This correspondence usually concerns the business of his riding, Saint-Maurice, and sometimes that of other ridings under his authority as Minister. To a lesser degree, the sub-series contains other document types. Attached to the incoming correspondence are working papers (mainly lists), reference materials and forms (i.e. grant and employment applications, etc.). To an even lesser degree, the sub-series contains memos, invitations, correspondence template mass mailings, newspaper clippings, news releases, promotional material, bills and legal texts, etc. It also contains an index of correspondents, 37 photographs, 3 contact sheets, 8 geographical maps, and 2 building plans.
Certain items were initialled by Minister Chrétien (for approval, or to indicate that he saw them), while other exceptionally rare items bear his original signature.