PRESS RELEASE

For immediate release

APPOINTMENT NOTICE

Montreal, October 24th, 2002 - Mr. Alban D’Amours, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Mouvement des Caisses Desjardins, and Mr. Robert Guerriero, President of the Board of Directors of Place Desjardins inc. are pleased to announce the nomination of Mr. Daniel Bigras, as President and Chief Executive Officer of Place Desjardins inc. He will succeed to Mr. Pierre Barnès who will retire in December 2002. Mr Bigras will officially take his position in January 2003. With a background in law, Mr. Bigras also brings with him nearly 20 years of experience in finance since he has held many managerial positions within the Fédération des caisses Desjardins du Québec, most recently in the regional vice-presidency - South Shore of Montreal. His expertise will be precious in the continuation of projects presently undertaken as well as future challenges in order to maintain the quality of a prestigious building that reflects the image and values of the Mouvement Desjardins. With a surface of 4 million square feet, Complexe Desjardins is one of the largest buildings of the metropolis. On a daily basis, nearly 35,000 people pass by Complexe Desjardins, making it one of the busiest places. In 25 years, its multifunctional concept has made it a genuine hub for the business and cultural communities, a meeting place for tourists and congress participants and a busy shopping center. The management of the building's operations is ensured by Place Desjardins inc. - 30 -

Source :

France Moreau
Co-ordinator, Communications
Place Desjardins inc.
(514) 281-1870, ext. 2241
Moreauf@pdinc.qc.ca