Category: Daily

Laval QC ☕ The Morning Chat

Good morning,

Today we’re looking at the stories that shape daily life here, even when the news comes from Montréal, Quebec City, or Ottawa. There’s transportation, health care, a bit of weather, major infrastructure plans, and a handful of topics worth more than a quick glance between sips of coffee.

What to Know This Morning

• Montréal brings more municipal employees back to the office: Eligible municipal workers will need to be on‑site at least three days a week starting September 14, 2026.
• A grey, cold start before a warm‑up: Montréal gets a bit of snow and wind today, but temperatures should rise quickly by Thursday.
• CAQ members begin voting: The party enters the final stretch in choosing François Legault’s successor.
• Vulnerable patients may be disadvantaged: The Collège des médecins is concerned about a registration method that could push more fragile patients to the back of the line.
• Ottawa pledges $51 billion for local infrastructure: The plan targets roads, bridges, water systems, and major community projects.
• Quebec wants a preventive leave program for pregnant or breastfeeding construction workers: The measure would be included in an already‑tabled bill.

Elsewhere in Quebec and Across Canada

• Quebec’s road network is costly to maintain: Experts note the province has far more paved road per capita than Ontario.
• Patio Design has its licence suspended: The company is contesting the Régie du bâtiment du Québec’s decision.
• Quebec’s school system enters a more flexible administrative phase: A major overhaul will change how certain education budgets can be spent.
• François‑Philippe Champagne steps away from the high‑speed rail file: He will not participate due to a family connection with Alto.
• Ambassador Bridge loses its top spot: Sarnia’s Blue Water Bridge is now the busiest road trade corridor between Canada and the U.S.
• Researcher’s immigration file rejected over an invented job title: The case raises questions about the use of artificial intelligence in administrative processing.
• Researchers test bioleaching in Ontario: They’re studying how bacteria can extract minerals from mining residues.

Wider View

• Mark Carney calls for caution in the Iran conflict: He urges all parties to respect international law and avoid targeting civilians.
• Canadian mining company confirms nine kidnapped workers killed in Mexico: Vizsla Silver says nine of the ten abducted workers have been found dead.The race to the Moon intensifies between the U.S. and China: Both countries are advancing with the goal of sending humans there.
• Céline Dion adds six Paris dates: Her return to the stage continues to grow.
• Cole Caufield takes another shot at 50 goals: The Canadiens face Florida tonight, with a small date with history on the line.
• The Habs keep climbing the standings: Montréal remains in the hunt for the top of its division with five games left.
• Markus Naslund hopes Caufield hits the mark: He knows the pressure that comes with chasing a stubborn round number.

Top Story

Ottawa puts $51 billion on the table for local infrastructure

The federal government has unveiled a ten‑year, $51‑billion plan under the Build Communities Strong Fund. The money is meant to address infrastructure needs across the country.

A total of $27.8 billion is earmarked for very concrete essentials: roads, bridges, water systems, and sewers. Another $6 billion targets major local projects, such as community centres.

The remaining $17.2 billion must be matched by provincial and territorial investments. This portion is intended to help reduce the cost of new housing and support health‑care infrastructure, including new emergency services.

For cities and suburbs juggling growing needs, announcements like this don’t fix a pothole on their own, but they do give a sense of the scale of the work ahead.

In Detail

Quebec enters an internal race to replace François Legault

Voting has begun among CAQ members to choose the next party leader and premier. About 20,500 members are eligible.

Voting continues until Sunday afternoon, with results to be announced April 12 in Drummondville.

Two candidates are in the running: Bernard Drainville and Christine Fréchette. For citizens, it signals a major shift at the top of Quebec’s government, one that will inevitably ripple through many files.

Collège des médecins raises concerns for vulnerable patients

The Collège des médecins says a directive issued by the FMOQ could disadvantage vulnerable patients already registered collectively in a family medicine group.

The issue centres on how patients are prioritized for family doctor assignments. The Collège stresses that access should follow medical need, not a system that pushes fragile patients further back in line.

It’s a sensitive topic in Quebec. When the health‑care system reorganizes its queues, it’s not just numbers moving on a spreadsheet — it’s real people waiting.

Montréal tightens its return‑to‑office rules

The City of Montréal will require eligible municipal employees to work in person at least three days a week starting September 14, 2026.

Currently, eligible employees must be on‑site at least two days a week, while managers already have a three‑day minimum.

The City says the change aims to strengthen collaboration and better reflect the realities of public‑sector work. The decision comes as negotiations continue with the municipal employees’ union, which opposes the move.

Quebec aims to better protect pregnant or breastfeeding construction workers

Quebec plans to create a preventive leave program specifically for pregnant or breastfeeding construction workers.

The measure is included in an omnibus bill introduced by Labour Minister Jean Boulet. It would complement existing protections under workplace health and safety laws.

The government says many women in the sector lose access to certain benefits because construction work is temporary and mobile. The new program would be created by the Commission de la construction du Québec and administered by the CNESST.

Editor’s Pick

There’s something reassuring about seeing infrastructure return to the centre of public conversation. It’s not the most glamorous morning topic, but sturdy roads, water systems, and community spaces are often what keep a city running smoothly before 8 a.m.

Before We Go

That’s it for this morning.

Wishing you a well‑paced day, smooth travel, and just enough energy to get through the to‑do list without negotiating too long with your first coffee. ☕

Laval QC ☕ Morning Coffee Chat

Good morning,

Today’s news leans heavily on the wallet and the everyday: an ongoing Metro strike in Laval, gas prices that remain painfully high in Montréal, and rising fees from airlines.

There are also a few files worth keeping an eye on across Quebec, Canada, and abroad.

Top Stories

• Metro strike in Laval : More than 550 employees at Metro’s Laval distribution centre and other sites have walked off the job, while fruit and vegetable shortages are appearing in some Montréal stores.
• Gas above $2/L in Montréal : Several Montréal stations were still showing 202.9 cents per litre on Monday.
• New fees at WestJet : The airline will add a temporary surcharge on certain companion‑voucher bookings starting April 8.
• UPDATE: Iran conflict now hitting energy infrastructure : Israel has targeted petrochemical complexes, a new escalation that continues to push energy prices upward.
• Nunavik still facing tuberculosis : A new study calls for more investment, especially in basic services and radiography access.
• Headlights deemed too bright : Transport Canada is looking into a growing number of complaints from drivers.
• Temporary car shelters must soon come down in Montréal : Deadlines are approaching in several boroughs, with possible fines for late removal.

Noteworthy

• April 13 byelections in Quebec: Practical voting information has been released.
• Caribou protection plan still delayed: Ten years after promises were made, Quebec has yet to present its strategy.
• Maple season off to a slow start: Harvests are lower than in previous years at this point in the season.
• VR games to keep seniors active: The tool is being used with people living with dementia to support physical activity.
• Easter Monday schedules: It’s always worth double‑checking before heading out, since many stores and services may be closed or running on reduced hours.

Canada & Beyond

• Porter adds fuel‑related fees: The rise in fuel costs is now affecting some reward bookings.
• Tensions persist in Brampton around pro‑Khalistan movement: A demonstration was held outside a Hindu temple.
• Samsung to discontinue Samsung Messages: Affected users will need to switch to Google Messages by July.
• Blue Jays look to rebound: Toronto is trying to recover from a rough stretch against the Dodgers.
• Humboldt Broncos memorial continues to progress: Work is ongoing eight years after the tragedy.
• Steve Bannon could see conviction overturned: A U.S. Supreme Court order opens the door to dropping the case.

Main Story

Metro strike in Laval hits as shortages already appear in some aisles

More than 550 employees at Metro’s Laval distribution centre, the company’s head office, and the Mérite warehouse in Montréal have launched a strike after rejecting the employer’s wage proposals.

The union says workers are demanding higher wage increases, better working conditions, and an end to subcontracting for drivers.

The timing is delicate, with fruit and vegetable shortages already visible in some Montréal stores. For readers in Laval, this is the kind of very concrete issue that can quickly show up in the grocery cart.

In Depth

Gas remains above $2/L in Montréal… and the pressure isn’t easing

Several Montréal gas stations were still displaying 202.9 cents per litre on Monday. The increase is tied to tensions surrounding the conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States, which is driving up oil prices.

Even though the news focuses on Montréal, the impact reaches far beyond the island. For many households in Laval and the North Shore, daily travel adds up quickly — in litres and in sighs.

WestJet adds a temporary surcharge, and Porter follows

Starting April 8, WestJet will apply a temporary $60 surcharge on certain bookings made with a companion voucher, citing rising fuel costs.

Porter is also adding a temporary surcharge on some reward bookings. Air Canada, for its part, does not apply fuel surcharges on regular tickets, though some vacation packages include an extra fee.

In short, fuel prices are now showing up not only at the pump but also on some airline tickets. The household budget didn’t ask for a combo deal.

Headlights deemed too bright draw Transport Canada’s attention

Transport Canada is looking into a growing number of complaints about headlights that are too powerful or poorly adjusted — an irritant drivers are reporting more often.

The issue isn’t just brightness: vehicle height, headlight alignment, and the increased use of LEDs all play a role. For many drivers, it adds eye strain and a sense of insecurity, especially on poorly lit roads.

Study calls for better basic services to curb tuberculosis in Nunavik

A study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal says fighting tuberculosis in Nunavik requires more investment in basic care, especially radiography services, along with better coordination and greater Inuit involvement in decision‑making.

As of April 2, 2026, 38 cases had already been reported in the region. The study also highlights the long travel required for many patients to access essential exams or care, and the need for stronger support for families.

Coup de cœur

The use of virtual‑reality games with seniors is a reminder that a good idea doesn’t need to be complicated to be useful. If it helps people stay active longer, that’s already a small, very human victory.

Before We Go

The morning starts with a lot of practical concerns, groceries, gas, and getting around.

Wishing you a very kind of day, the kind Laval knows well, with just enough happening to keep one eye open before the second coffee. ☕

Laval QC ☕ The morning chat

Good morning and happy Saturday.

Two fatal crashes overnight, a series of break‑ins targeting Montréal restaurants, and Trump giving Iran 48 hours to reach a deal. Grab your coffee and let’s go through it together.

The Daily Rundown

• Two fatal crashes in Quebec overnight A passenger was killed in Saint‑Juste‑du‑Lac and a man in his twenties died in Huntingdon after hitting a roadside boulder.
• Wave of break‑ins in Montréal restaurants Three restaurants hit in recent weeks, with thousands of dollars in damage.
• Hit‑and‑run in Brossard caused by impaired driver Several people injured Friday evening. The suspect was arrested after fleeing.
• Canada’s oldest man dies at 110 Burdett Sisler, the country’s oldest Second World War veteran, passed away Thursday.
• Surprise departure of the Port of Montréal CEO Julie Gascon stepped down from her position on Friday.
• Fake maple syrup pulled from shelves Steve Bourdeau’s canned products recalled, refunds offered.
• Meningococcal infections reach 10‑year high More than 150 cases detected in Canada in 2025.
• Alejandro Kirk placed on injured list The Blue Jays catcher has a fracture in his left thumb.

Noteworthy

• Police interventions in Quebec City arenas surge The SQ responded 161 times in 2025, compared with 30 in 2017.
• War in Iran pushes mortgage rates higher Three‑ and five‑year fixed mortgage rates rose by 0.5 percent after the conflict began.
• European ministers call for taxes on energy profits Five countries are urging the EU to tax energy companies as prices continue to soar.

International

• Russian strikes in Ukraine: 5 dead, 30 injured Russia launched 286 drones overnight, 260 of which were shot down.
• Trump issues 48‑hour ultimatum to Iran “The clock is ticking. Forty‑eight hours before we unleash hell on them,” the U.S. president wrote.
• Lebanon: new Israeli strikes on Tyre The IDF says it is acting against Hezbollah, an ally of Tehran.
• Three charged in antisemitic arson in London Two men and a teenager accused of setting fire to four ambulances belonging to a Jewish organization on March 23.
• Japan deploys missiles in response to China Tokyo announces the deployment of missiles capable of reaching targets 1,000 kilometres away.

Main story

Wave of break‑ins in Montréal restaurants causes thousands in damage

A series of break‑ins has hit Montréal restaurants since late March, leaving thousands of dollars in damage and a deep sense of insecurity among several owners.

At La Spada, owner Scott Usheroff discovered the safe had been stolen after an intrusion made possible by a faulty alarm system. Locks, keys and security equipment had to be replaced, costing an estimated 3,000 to 4,000 dollars.

At Bocadillo Bistro in Little Italy, about 1,200 dollars’ worth of bottles were stolen and the cash register was forced open. “You feel invaded. Everything has been touched,” said owner Marco Russo, who expects to spend about 4,500 dollars on new security measures.

The restaurant Bossa on Wellington Street was also targeted. The thief broke the door mechanism, ripped out two cash registers and left in under a minute, according to co‑owner Daniel Lo Manto. Repairs are estimated at around 3,000 dollars.

The SPVM says police stations in the affected areas have not reported an official increase in break‑ins, but the service is reminding business owners to check locks, test alarm systems and maintain good lighting around entry points.

In depth

Two fatal crashes in Quebec overnight

A passenger died early Saturday morning in Saint‑Juste‑du‑Lac after the vehicle he was in rolled over on Route 295. The driver, a woman in her thirties, reportedly lost control before leaving the roadway. She was taken to hospital for blood tests to determine whether alcohol or drugs were involved. The road was closed for the investigation.

A few hours earlier in Huntingdon, a man in his twenties died after hitting a roadside boulder on Ridge Road. According to the SQ, he lost control before veering out of his lane. A collision investigator was sent to the scene to determine the cause.

One year of U.S. tariffs: Canadian auto sector very concerned

One year after the imposition of American tariffs, the Canadian automobile industry is sounding the alarm. Manufacturers fear for their competitiveness and for jobs, which are already weakened by supply chain disruptions.

Industry representatives hope that a new trade agreement can be reached quickly in order to stabilize the situation and prevent further losses.

Justine Dufour‑Lapointe: “Sports should matter as much as school”

The distinguished skier Justine Dufour‑Lapointe has no doubt that sport should receive more funding in this country.

The Olympic champion believes that physical activity and sport should hold a place as important as education in the lives of young Canadians.

Her comments come in the context of a recent report on the future of sport that includes 98 calls to action, about twenty of which directly involve governments and provincial organizations, particularly in the Atlantic provinces.

Quebec video game explores the Duplessis orphanages

The Quebec studio Chien d’Or has created a video game titled “Into the Abyss of the Dream” that brings players back into the horror of the orphanages of the Grande Noirceur.

The game explores this dark period in Quebec’s history, when thousands of children were placed in psychiatric institutions and subjected to systemic abuse.

This Quebec video game creation aims to raise awareness among a new generation about this historical tragedy while offering an immersive narrative experience.

Coup de Cœur

Burdett Sisler, Canada’s oldest Second World War veteran, passed away Thursday at the age of 110. He leaves behind 11 grandchildren, 22 great‑grandchildren and 14 great‑great‑grandchildren, a legacy of service and family spanning four generations.

Before we go

A Saturday marked by two tragic crashes in Quebec, a wave of break‑ins affecting Montréal restaurant owners, and international tensions that continue to weigh on our local economy.

Enjoy your weekend, take care on the roads, and have a great Saturday. ☕

Laval QC ☕ The Morning Chat

Good morning,

Laval wakes up today to a mix of very down‑to‑earth stories… traffic, sports, gas prices, and what’s happening right around the corner. Here’s the quick version to start your day, followed by the stories worth more than a sip of coffee on the run.

Top Stories This Morning

• Young girl found alone on a Laval boulevard – A Laval woman says she found a small child walking alone on a busy boulevard after the girl slipped out of her daycare unnoticed.
• FC Supra du Québec officially launches – The club unveiled its first roster at Carrefour Laval ahead of its debut in the Canadian Professional Soccer League.
• Carpooling potential in Montréal – A new study suggests Montréal is among the cities where carpooling could most reduce travel times.
• Major road closures in Montréal – Several significant traffic disruptions are expected over the long weekend.

Noteworthy

• Street prayers banned in Quebec – A new law ends street prayers, while allowing municipalities to authorize them under certain conditions.
• Weather alerts across Quebec – Several regions are under alerts heading into the Easter weekend.
• Cuts to water‑quality monitoring – Testing may no longer be conducted at roughly 50 sampling stations across Quebec.
• New COVID‑19 variant circulating in Canada – The virus continues to spread, with accumulating short‑ and medium‑term impacts.

Across Canada

• $51 million in new aid for Ukraine – The federal government adds another round of support, after nearly $26 billion since 2022.
• Canadians worried about the Strait of Hormuz – A new poll shows concerns about economic impacts and household budgets.

Main Story

Young girl found alone on a busy Laval boulevard after slipping out of her daycare

The incident has raised serious concerns in Laval: a young girl was found alone on Sainte‑Rose Boulevard after leaving her daycare, three blocks away. According to the woman who spotted her, a car travelling in the opposite direction nearly hit the child.

The driver, Cleopatra Pitsakis, stopped immediately to help. The girl told her she had left her daycare and needed help getting back. The two walked together to the facility, where staff were stunned to realize the child was missing.

Pitsakis filed a police complaint and says she has video showing the moment she returned the girl to the daycare. She is calling for an investigation into how a child could leave the premises without being noticed.

Quebec’s Ministry of Families has not yet commented.

In Depth

FC Supra du Québec unveils its first roster at Carrefour Laval

FC Supra du Québec presented its inaugural roster during an event at Carrefour Laval on April 2. The club becomes the first Quebec‑based team in the Canadian Professional Soccer League.

The project highlights Quebec‑born players and aims to showcase local talent. The organization also says it wants to build community ties and inspire young athletes.

The first match is set for April 11 in British Columbia against Pacific FC. Early home games will be played at the CEPSUM in Montréal, before most of the home schedule shifts to Laval’s Stade Boréale starting May 3.

Gas at 1.999/L in Laval: a price that’s turning heads

The 1.999‑per‑litre price posted at several Laval stations continues to make drivers do a double‑take. Since yesterday, reactions have been pouring in, both online and in person, with many residents calling it a true “sticker shock.”

A new tool from the Régie Essence Québec, launched this week, now lets drivers track gas prices in real time. For many, checking before filling up has quickly become a habit, especially when every tenth of a cent counts.

Coup de Cœur

The launch of FC Supra du Québec feels genuinely uplifting. Beyond the sport itself, there’s something powerful in the idea of giving local talent a visible stage right here at home.

Before You Go

That’s it for this morning. Wishing you a smooth day ahead, a coffee that stays warm just long enough, and with any luck, a fill‑up that doesn’t make you roll your eyes too hard. ☕

Laval QC ☕ The morning chat

Good morning,

Today we’re talking about gas prices climbing sharply, major changes coming out of Quebec City, and a handful of stories that directly affect daily life here in Laval, Montreal, and across the North Shore. A bit of sports, a bit of retail news, and a dose of politics to round things out.

The Essentials

• Gas is brushing up against $2 in Laval and has passed that mark in Montreal: One station on Samson Boulevard was showing 199.9¢ per litre, while Montreal crossed the $2 threshold.
• Advance voting begins in Terrebonne: Voters can cast their ballots from April 3 to 6 in this by‑election, relaunched after the previous result was overturned.
• Quebec tightens secularism rules: The newly adopted text expands restrictions on religious symbols, street prayers, and certain practices in educational settings.
• Walmart will close two Montreal stores: The Pointe‑aux‑Trembles and Côte‑des‑Neiges locations will shut down by the end of June.
• François Legault spent his final day in the Assembly as premier: He will officially step down as CAQ leader at a party convention on April 12.

Local Stories

• Gas hits 199.9¢ in Laval: A new interactive map from Régie Essence Québec now lets drivers compare prices in real time.
• Coroner investigating five deaths among people experiencing homelessness in Montreal: The inquiry concerns individuals aged 30 to 71.
• Montreal’s weather will be all over the place: Sun, rain, wind, a warm spell, then a return to the cold — a forecast with multiple personalities.

Quebec and Canada

• Quebec resumes negotiations with medical specialists: Talks had been paused since January 31.
• Canada posts a $5.7‑billion trade deficit in February: Imports rose faster than exports.
• Ottawa invests $1.4 billion in Indigenous health services: The funding targets culturally adapted care.
• Pierre Poilievre proposes suspending federal gas taxes until 2027: He says it would save drivers 25 cents per litre.
• Doug Ford opposes Chinese vehicle assembly in Ontario: The issue involves discussions between Stellantis and a Chinese partner.

Around the world

• Trump considering pulling the U.S. out of NATO: He says he is “thinking about it strongly.”
• U.S. Supreme Court skeptical of birthright citizenship decree: The hearing focused on the measure’s legality.
• Iran threatens “devastating” attacks: The warning follows statements from Washington.
• At least one person killed in an earthquake in Indonesia: The tsunami alert was later lifted.
• Artemis II has successfully launched: The ten‑day mission toward lunar orbit is underway.

Main Story

Gas prices hit a new high in Laval and surpass $2 per litre in Montreal

Gas is now selling for 199.9¢ per litre at a station on Samson Boulevard in Laval. In Montreal, some stations have already crossed the $2 mark.

At the same time, a new interactive map from Régie Essence Québec lets drivers track prices in real time across the province. Stations must update their prices within five minutes of any change.

For motorists, it makes at least one thing easier: comparing prices before filling up. When prices jump this fast, a few minutes of checking can save you a small sting at the pump. Not a huge victory, but we’ll take the wins where we can.

In detail

Advance voting underway in the Terrebonne by‑election

Advance voting runs from April 3 to 6, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Eligible voters can also register and vote at their local Elections Canada office until April 7 at 6 p.m.

This by‑election follows a long electoral saga. The previous result changed after validation, then a judicial recount gave the Liberals a one‑vote lead, before the Supreme Court ultimately invalidated the result.

Another key detail: voters will use an adapted ballot, writing the candidate’s first name or initials along with their last name.

Quebec adopts new, tighter secularism rules

After amendments discussed yesterday, the Quebec government has now adopted a text that strengthens secularism rules. Municipalities will be able to authorize street prayers under certain criteria, while new prohibitions will apply in several settings.

The text bans religious symbols for daycare educators as well as teachers and staff in private schools, with grandfathering for those hired before November 27, 2025.

It also bans full‑face veils in daycares, CEGEPs, and universities for anyone receiving or providing services. Subsidized private religious schools will have three years to end selection based on religious affiliation and to stop religious instruction in class, or they will lose public funding.

Walmart to close two Montreal stores by the end of June

After yesterday’s initial reports, Walmart has now confirmed it will close its Côte‑des‑Neiges and Pointe‑aux‑Trembles stores by late June. More than 237 employees will be affected, though the company says they will be reassigned to other locations.

The Côte‑des‑Neiges store will close on June 19, 2026, and the Pointe‑aux‑Trembles store on June 26, 2026. Walmart says it will continue investing in Quebec, including a new supercentre in Sherbrooke and renovations elsewhere in the province.

For customers in Greater Montreal, this means fewer service points on the island, even if the company plans to redirect shoppers to other stores in the region.

La Victoire de Montréal clinches a playoff spot with a win at Place Bell

La Victoire de Montréal beat the Vancouver Goldeneyes 3–0 at Place Bell, officially securing a playoff berth.

Ann‑Renée Desbiens earned her sixth shutout of the season, while Hayley Scamurra scored twice. Montreal also set a league record with 12 straight games earning at least one point.

And for Laval, there’s the added pleasure of seeing Place Bell associated to a win that truly matters… a clean, drama‑free night on the scoreboard. Always appreciated.

Coup de cœur

There’s something genuinely uplifting about La Victoire clinching their spot. A team moving forward, a Laval arena at the heart of the action, and a clear, satisfying result — the kind of news that feels good in a bulletin often filled with prices, closures, and political debates.

Before we go

Thanks for starting your morning with us.

Today’s lineup is a full one, but the goal stays simple: helping you make sense of what affects our corner of the world, and what might come up in conversation before noon. ☕

Laval QC ☕ The morning chat

Good morning,

Today’s news takes us through Quebec politics, transportation, Montréal life and a few very practical stories that affect daily life well beyond Laval. There’s some heavy stuff, some useful updates, and a few of those items that make you want to double‑check your ticket, your parking sign or your cheese.

And in the middle of it all, a very lucrative departure at the top of Air Canada is drawing a lot of attention.

Here’s what you need to start the day with a clear picture of what’s moving here and around us.

Top Stories This Morning

• Seasonal parking restrictions return in Montréal They’re in effect from April 1 to December 1 in most boroughs, with $100 fines.
• A recall affects certain cheeses included in HelloFresh meal kits The nationwide recall involves a possible Listeria risk.
• Cirque du Soleil cuts more jobs in Montréal Seventy positions are being eliminated at the head office.
• Ottawa sought to give airlines more leeway on passenger compensation Internal documents show pressure to maintain certain exemptions.

Society & Politics

• Lionel Carmant returns to the CAQ He says his decision is tied to his friendship with François Legault.
• Quebec wants to reduce DPJ reports for negligence Reports for this reason have increased 110% in 20 years.
• Quebec would formally recognize the rights of the anglophone community Simon Jolin‑Barrette is proposing amendments to Bill 1.

Across Quebec & Canada

• Pierre Poilievre opposes the proposed high‑speed rail project He says he would cancel it if elected.
• Air Canada’s CEO announces his departure Michael Rousseau will leave his role by the fall.
• Canada’s real GDP rose 0.1% in January Statistics Canada also estimates 0.2% growth for February.
• A federal union may boycott the early‑retirement program The PIPSC could recommend members opt out.
• Book sales decline in Quebec After several years of growth, the market dipped slightly in 2025.

Montréal & Surrounding Areas

• Welcome Hall Mission opens a new centralized kitchen in Saint‑Henri Production could reach up to 10,000 meals per day.
• Montréal considers better protections for police officers facing insults The City is studying a new by‑law after a viral video.

International

• Mark Carney denounces Israel’s illegal invasion of Lebanon Canada’s prime minister says Israel is violating Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Main Story

Air Canada: Michael Rousseau’s lucrative exit sparks debate

Air Canada CEO Michael Rousseau will retire by the end of the third quarter of 2026, but it’s the scale of his departure package that’s drawing the most reaction.

The airline’s 2026 circular confirms he will receive a lifetime pension of $763,500 per year, along with stock‑based compensation currently valued at more than $13.5 million. The rules around his stock options have also been relaxed: instead of having three years to exercise them, he can now wait up to 10 years, giving him far more flexibility to cash out when conditions are favourable.

This generous retirement package comes after two language‑related controversies in five years, including a crisis‑response video posted on March 23 in which he said only “bonjour” and “merci” in French. Air Canada says its next CEO will be required to communicate in French.

For many, the contrast is striking: a leader criticized for his inability to speak Quebec’s official language leaves with compensation far beyond what most Quebecers will earn in a lifetime.

In Detail

HelloFresh recall: what consumers should check today

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency says the recall affecting certain cheeses included in HelloFresh meal kits remains in effect. The recall covers several varieties, grated parmesan, cheese curds, feta, goat cheese and mozzarella, due to a potential Listeria monocytogenes risk.

No illnesses have been reported, but customers are urged to check lot numbers in their boxes and discard any affected products. Other ingredients in the kits are not impacted.

Welcome Hall Mission: a new kitchen that transforms food assistance

Welcome Hall Mission has opened a new centralized kitchen in Saint‑Henri, boosting its production capacity from about 1,500 meals a day to as many as 10,000.

The facility will support the organization’s shelters, community partners and two free grocery stores. It will also serve as a culinary training space for people facing barriers to employment.

Coup de cœur

Welcome Hall Mission’s new kitchen is a reminder that a well‑designed project can nourish people in the literal sense, but also restore purpose, skills and momentum. In a period filled with stories of cuts and gridlock, this kind of initiative is genuinely uplifting.

In Closing

Thank you for starting your day with us.

Take what you need from this roundup, keep an eye on what affects your daily life, and move into your morning with a bit more clarity, and ideally, no unpleasant surprises in the fridge. ☕

Laval QC ☕ Morning Coffee Chat

Good morning,

We’re starting the day with a pretty full lineup… a mix of stories touching on health, public services, safety, politics, and a few very down‑to‑earth issues that shape our daily life.

Here’s the quick version, followed by a bit more context for the stories worth lingering on.

Top Stories This Morning

• Digital health file: specialists shift strategy The Federation of Medical Specialists is changing its approach after three years of negotiations with the Quebec government.
• Quebec and pharmacists reach a tentative agreement The deal aims to withdraw an amendment in Bill 15 that would have capped certain professional fees.
• The Canadiens look to keep their momentum After a string of strong results, the team heads into tonight’s game with a chance to solidify its playoff position. We’ll see if the trend holds.
• Montreal considers a new bylaw after misogynistic insults toward a police officer The Montreal Police Brotherhood is calling for a new municipal measure.

To Watch

• FIFA 2026 ticket fraud The Canadian Anti‑Fraud Centre warns that some victims only discover the scam when their tickets are rejected at the gate.
• Public transit funding Quebec and Ottawa still haven’t reached an agreement on the new Canada Public Transit Fund.
• HelloFresh food recall Several cheeses included in certain meal kits are under a national recall due to possible Listeria contamination.
• Two men injured in a Montreal bar A stabbing in the Sud‑Ouest left two people injured; the suspect fled.

Society & Politics

• Quebec Liberals catch up to the PQ in voting intentions A Léger poll places both parties at 33% among decided voters.
• Quebec unions rethink their role Several labour organizations are meeting to reassess their image, methods, and connection with members.
• Highly educated immigrant women struggle to have their credentials recognized A new study highlights the complexity of the process and the gap between recognized qualifications and workplace reality.
• Alexandre Boulerice urged to stay with the NDP The Montreal MP is considering whether to join Québec solidaire.

In Depth

HelloFresh cheese recall affects products distributed across Canada

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has issued a national recall for several unbranded cheese portions included in certain HelloFresh meal kits.

The affected products include grated parmesan, cheese curds, feta, goat cheese, and mozzarella.

No illnesses have been reported, but the recall is linked to possible Listeria contamination, the kind of detail most people prefer to check before making dinner, not after.

Going Further

Quebec awards a new government data contract to Amazon

The province has given Amazon another contract to manage government data.

The key point: the data will be handled by a U.S. company rather than a local provider, raising questions about digital sovereignty and how the government chooses its tech partners.

Medical specialists shift tactics in the digital health file

After three years of negotiations with the government, the Federation of Medical Specialists is changing its strategy on the Digital Health Record.

Members will stop boycotting the system, a stance they had taken since February. The decision was made at a general assembly Thursday and shared with members the next day.

The FMSQ says it will re‑engage in order to better highlight the system’s flaws and technical issues.

The shift comes as the federation warns of potential problems with the proposed solution and says it wants to avoid being blamed for any future delays or failures.

Pamela Harvey murder solved after 47 years through forensic analysis and DNA

The Sûreté du Québec has confirmed that Pamela Harvey, who disappeared in 1978 near Greater Sudbury, was the woman found dead in Saint‑Eustache in March 1979.

The identification was made possible through forensic dentistry and DNA analysis using samples preserved since 1979 and family DNA provided in 2018.

Investigators also determined that the suspected perpetrator died in 1979. It’s the kind of case that shows how long some answers take… but that they sometimes arrive all the same.

Gilbert Rozon ordered to pay more than $880,000 to eight of nine plaintiffs

The Quebec Superior Court has ordered Rozon to pay $880,000 to eight of the nine women involved in this civil case.

The plaintiffs had sought nearly $14 million in damages. This ruling ends a 10‑month civil trial and closes a file that has occupied a lot of public space.

Coup de Cœur

There aren’t always bright, clear‑cut good‑news stories in a morning brief, but there’s something deeply human in the simple fact that some truths eventually get acknowledged. When a long silence finally gives way to an answer, even a late one, it matters.

Before We Go

Thanks for starting your day with us.

Wishing you a good Tuesday, a perfectly warm coffee, and just enough calm to take all this in without needing a second update before noon. ☕

Laval, QC ☕ Morning Briefing

Good morning,

We’re starting today with concrete local happenings: a strike at Metro in Laval and the full return of regular service at the STL. Beyond that, we’re keeping an eye on a few Quebec and Canadian stories that are likely to make headlines today.

The Daily Rundown

• Strike at Metro’s fruit and vegetable distribution centre in Laval: An open‑ended strike began Monday and also affects the company’s head office and drivers in Rivière‑des‑Prairies.
• STL restores regular service: Service cuts introduced earlier in March have ended sooner than expected.
• Montreal municipal professionals on a one‑day strike: They’re demanding wage increases that keep pace with inflation.
• Public inquiry begins into deaths involving heavy trucks in Quebec: Hearings start Monday at the Montreal courthouse.
• Air Canada CEO announces he will step down in 2026: The company says succession planning is already underway.
• Most Canadians support banning social media for youth under 16: An Angus Reid poll puts support at 75%.

Local Stories

• Metro strike in Laval: The dispute affects 550 workers and centres on wages, subcontracting for drivers, remote work for head‑office staff, and health and safety issues.
• STL back to normal: The agency says it now has enough buses in good condition to resume full service.

Elsewhere

• Freezing rain warning for Montreal and nearby regions: Up to 10 mm expected between Tuesday and Wednesday, with potentially slippery conditions.
• Canadiens win their fifth straight: Montreal beat Carolina for the second time in six days.
• Quebec awards new contract to Amazon: Government data management will go to the U.S. company rather than a local provider.

Top Story

Strike at Metro in Laval hits a key hub for fruit and vegetable supply

An open‑ended strike began Monday at Metro’s fruit and vegetable distribution centre in Laval, as well as at the company’s head office. The movement also includes drivers from the Mérite 1 warehouse in Rivière‑des‑Prairies.

In total, 550 workers are affected. The Laval centre supplies roughly 1,000 Metro stores across Quebec, giving the conflict immediate weight.

Issues on the table include wages, subcontracting for drivers, remote‑work rules for head‑office employees, and workplace health and safety.

The union says the strike is open‑ended but has not indicated whether it could become unlimited. Metro had not commented at the time of writing.

In Depth

STL ends service reductions introduced earlier in March

The Société de transport de Laval has restored regular service after suspending part of its routes starting March 10.

At the time, major delays in routine bus maintenance, tied to parts shortages and equipment management issues, forced the cancellation of dozens of peak‑hour departures.

The STL now says it has enough buses in good condition. It has also implemented short‑term measures and begun reviewing certain processes to prevent a repeat of the situation.

Public inquiry opens into deaths involving heavy trucks in Quebec

A coroner’s public inquiry begins Monday at the Montreal courthouse into several fatal collisions involving heavy trucks.

Hearings will run over five weeks between March 30 and November 13. The review includes deaths that occurred in Boucherville and Ange‑Gardien in 2025.

The goal is to better understand the causes and contributing factors behind these collisions and to issue recommendations to prevent future tragedies.

Air Canada prepares for leadership transition as Michael Rousseau announces departure

Air Canada says CEO Michael Rousseau will retire by the end of the third quarter of 2026.

The company says succession planning has been underway for more than two years, and a global external search began in January 2026.

His departure follows criticism over a condolence message delivered almost entirely in English after the LaGuardia crash. In Quebec, CAQ leadership candidates reacted by saying the next CEO should be bilingual.

Most Canadians support banning social media for youth under 16

An Angus Reid poll shows that 75% of Canadians would support banning social media for youth under 16.

Among parents with children at home, support dips slightly but remains high at 70%. The poll also shows most Canadians don’t believe teens use these platforms responsibly.

Another notable detail: more respondents believe regulation should fall to parents rather than government. As usual, everyone wants a solution, just not the same one.

Bright Spot

The STL’s faster‑than‑expected return to regular service deserves a small shout‑out. When public transit runs the way it’s supposed to, it’s not flashy — but for a lot of people, it’s a genuinely good, concrete piece of news.

To Wrap Up

Thanks for spending a few minutes with us this morning.

We’ll let you start your day with the essentials in hand, already a small victory before the first spilled coffee. ☕

Laval QC ☕ The morning chat

Good morning and happy Saturday!

Tonight, Laval becomes the centre of Quebec politics. Meanwhile, a Canadian is preparing to circle the Moon, the Blue Jays walked it off in the ninth inning last night, and we’ve got a few local stories worth two minutes of your attention before you start your day.

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The Essentials This Morning

CAQ debate in Laval tonight Fréchette and Drainville face off for the last time before the CAQ leadership vote on April 12. Between 300 and 400 people are expected; the event will also be streamed online.

Vaillancourt sues the City of Laval The former mayor, previously convicted, is suing the City, seemingly accusing it of being the source of a Radio‑Canada report.

Laval police HQ: faulty door, $21,000 guard Mechanical issues at the entrance of the West police station have required a full‑time security guard since February. A door replacement is imminent.

Montréal & Area

Blue‑collar strike in April Montréal’s blue‑collar workers (CUPE 301) will hold a three‑day strike from April 15 to 18. Their collective agreement expired in December 2024; the main issue is wages.

Mirko D’Agata crowned best pizzaiolo in the world The Montréal chef wins the top prize at the world’s most prestigious pizzeria competition.

Nuits Montréal The City authorizes 21 establishments to stay open later under a new nighttime certification.

Eid dinner in Pierrefonds Hilm and the CYD Centre brought together dozens of community leaders and cultural groups for an intercommunity Eid dinner Thursday night — the third of its kind at the CYD Centre.

Tributes to LaGuardia pilots The bodies of Quebec pilot Antoine Forest and first officer Mackenzie Gunther, killed in a March 22 collision at LaGuardia, were repatriated on March 26. A memorial of flowers and photos has formed at Trudeau Airport.

Quebec

CLSC for all Minister Bélanger announces that every Quebecer will be affiliated with a local CLSC, with 100 new integrated access points planned over five years and a unified digital platform, “Votre Santé.”

Medication fees & insurers An amendment would allow Quebec to cap medication fees billed to private insurers. Some pharmacists walked out in protest.

CAQ leadership: Carmant backs Fréchette The former minister supports Christine Fréchette, who now has nearly 40 caucus endorsements, compared with about 15 for Drainville.

Colabor Group The Quebec food‑distribution company, carrying $159M in debt, is finalizing four transactions to sell the business in pieces.

Across Canada

Canada & NATO Ottawa confirms it has reached the 2% of GDP defence‑spending target. Carney announces an additional $3B for Atlantic military infrastructure.

NDP — results Sunday Candidates deliver their final speeches this morning in Winnipeg. The new leader will be announced Sunday through a ranked ballot.

Carney budget adopted Bill C‑15 received royal assent Thursday, confirming a $78.3B deficit for the current fiscal year.

Blue Jays win 3–2 in opener Kevin Gausman sets a franchise record with 11 strikeouts, and the Jays win in the ninth inning to open their 50th season.

Early retirement in the federal public service The government launches its workforce‑reduction program announced in fall 2025.

International

Henry Lee dies at 87 The world‑renowned forensic scientist known for his role in the O.J. Simpson trial and for building the forensic‑science program at the University of New Haven died Friday in Nevada.

Ukraine Russia launched more than 270 drones overnight, killing at least five people, including two in Odesa where a maternity ward was damaged. Zelensky visited the UAE and Qatar to discuss anti‑drone defence cooperation.

Main Story

The final Fréchette–Drainville debate takes place tonight in Laval : Quebec’s next premier will be known April 12

Tonight, Laval hosts the second and final debate in the CAQ leadership race. Christine Fréchette and Bernard Drainville will face off before an audience of 300 to 400 people. The event will also be streamed online and will cover health care, social services, immigration and identity, public safety, housing, and education.

Both candidates emphasized health care this week. Fréchette proposes virtual waiting rooms for non‑priority patients to avoid physical‑network delays. Drainville focuses on reimbursing certain private specialist consultations and allowing private‑sector doctors to provide services in the public system.

On immigration, both oppose Minister Roberge’s abolition of the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ). Fréchette wants to relaunch it for two years to ensure an orderly transition. Drainville proposes grandfather clauses for temporary workers in priority sectors like health and education.

On housing, Fréchette wants to reimburse the welcome tax for first‑time homebuyers. Drainville goes further: he proposes that the province advance up to 20% of the cost of a new home, recovering that share upon resale.

Fréchette has nearly 40 caucus endorsements, including former minister Lionel Carmant. Drainville has about 15. Outgoing premier François Legault says he won’t interfere but confirmed he will be watching the debate. The new CAQ leader, and Quebec’s next premier, will be elected April 12 by the party’s roughly 20,600 members.

In Depth

Yanar Mohammed, Iraqi activist born in Baghdad and Toronto resident, assassinated March 2

Yanar Mohammed founded Iraq’s first women’s shelter and co‑founded a network of safe houses for women fleeing violence and exploitation, including Yazidi women who survived ISIS. She had lived in Toronto since 1995 after obtaining refugee status in Canada, where she worked as an architect.

On March 2, she was shot by two armed men on a motorcycle outside her home in Baghdad and died of her injuries in hospital. The week she died, she had been giving a lecture on the treatment of Yazidi women by ISIS.

Canada’s embassy in Baghdad issued a joint statement with several allied countries condemning her assassination and praising her work defending women’s rights. Iraqi authorities have opened an investigation.

Canadian feminist activists urge the public not to look away, citing rising authoritarianism and cuts to international aid as conditions that enable the kind of violence that killed Mohammed.

Jeremy Hansen will be the first Canadian to travel to the Moon on the next Artemis mission

NASA has unveiled the crew for the upcoming Artemis mission, which will circle the Moon without landing or entering lunar orbit, but will travel farther into space than any crew since Apollo. Jeremy Hansen, from Ontario, will be making his first spaceflight.

He will fly alongside commander Reid Wiseman, pilot Victor Glover, and mission specialist Christina Koch, who holds the record for the longest spaceflight by a woman (328 days). Glover is one of NASA’s few Black astronauts. The mission reflects the diversification of American astronautics since Apollo.

Hansen was selected by the Canadian Space Agency in 2009 and named to the Artemis crew in 2023. A physicist and military pilot by training, he says looking at the Moon now feels different: “I now understand, in detail, just how much harder it is than I thought.”

In Laval, the police HQ has had a faulty door since opening : the temporary fix has cost $21,000

It’s not dramatic, but it’s the kind of detail Laval taxpayers deserve to know.

The employee entrance at the West police station has had mechanical issues since shortly after the building opened. The cause: heavy use and strong winds. Several repair attempts failed, and the City concluded a full replacement is needed. Installation of a new door is expected soon.

In the meantime, a full‑time security guard has been on duty since early February as part of a broader security contract. Cost so far: $21,289. In March, two incidents involved a guard who failed to perform his duties; he has since been replaced, and the City says supervision has been strengthened with the contractor.

The City maintains that the measures in place are effective and that repeated reports of unauthorized access “do not reflect the reality on the ground.”

Spotlight

Last night in Pierrefonds, dozens of people from very different communities sat down together for a meal. There were elected officials, organizations, cultural leaders. No cameras, no heavy agenda — just people eating and talking. It was the third gathering of its kind at the CYD Centre, and in the current climate, it’s exactly the kind of quiet event that builds something lasting.

See You Monday

Have a great day, Laval. Tonight, Quebec politics comes to your doorstep. Tomorrow, we’ll know who leads the NDP. And somewhere, a son of Ontario is preparing to circle the Moon on behalf of the entire country. Not a bad week to follow the news.

Laval QC ☕ The morning chat

Good morning,

We’re starting the day together with what matters most — clear, direct, and without detours. A few decisions that could affect daily life, signals worth watching, and a social reality that continues to hit close to home.

Here’s what you need to know today.

⚡ In Brief

• Fire in Duvernay: firefighter injured A firefighter was injured during a fire on Kugler Street in Laval.
• Security reinforced at Laval police station Door malfunctions required a security guard after two uncontrolled access incidents.
• Upcoming strike in Montreal Blue‑collar workers will launch a three‑day strike in April amid a labour dispute.
• Toys “R” Us closing stores The company continues its restructuring and plans to close several Canadian locations, including one in Quebec.
• Sobeys removes some “Buy Canadian” signage The chain says consumers are now more influenced by price than product origin.
• Canada reaches NATO defence target The country now allocates 2% of its GDP to defence, with new investments announced.
• Mikaël Kingsbury announces retirement The Quebec champion will end his career after the Canadian championships.
• Maple syrup production down A prolonged winter has reduced this season’s output by about 30%.
• Pressure on the middle class Organizations denounce the impact of the cost of living as strike actions continue.
• Indigenous alliance to protect caribou Four nations are joining forces despite differing viewpoints.
• Arrest linked to human trafficking A Montreal‑connected suspect was arrested in Alberta in an investigation involving multiple victims.
• $20‑million research program in Montreal The MUHC is launching an initiative to attract international researchers to Quebec.

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🧭 To Watch

• Worrying social climate A survey shows 75% of Quebecers are concerned about rising violence.
• Departures at the Sûreté du Québec A wave of early retirements is expected among senior staff.
• Controversy over social assistance reform Groups criticize Quebec’s proposed shift toward digital services.

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⚖️ Justice & Society

• Verdict in the Meriem Boundaoui case The shooter was found guilty of murder; his accomplice was acquitted.
• Gilbert Rozon lawsuit dropped An out‑of‑court settlement ends the dispute with Julie Snyder and Pénélope McQuade.
• Arrest in human trafficking case A Montreal suspect faces several charges related to sexual exploitation.

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🔴 Lead Story

Quebec wants every citizen linked to a CLSC

The Quebec government has announced a major reform: every citizen will now be affiliated with a CLSC to improve access to primary care.

The goal is to make the CLSC a clear entry point into the health‑care system, as access to family doctors remains difficult for many Quebecers.

The plan also includes new service points and the expansion of a centralized digital platform to simplify appointment booking.

User groups welcome the intention but criticize the implementation delays, calling them too long given current needs.

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🕊️ In‑Depth Stories

Two deaths among Montreal’s unhoused population: a worsening crisis

Two people experiencing homelessness died within 24 hours in Montreal, reigniting debate over how the crisis is being managed.

The mayor, visibly emotional, acknowledged the limits of current interventions despite new investments to support frontline organizations.

The City plans to fund intervention teams and improve encampment management, but many say resources remain insufficient.

Beyond the announcements, these deaths highlight a persistent reality: despite available tools, people continue to die on the streets.

Toys “R” Us Canada closing more stores

Toys “R” Us Canada is preparing to ask a court for permission to put the company up for sale.

In new court filings, the chain says it has notified landlords at Centre St. Laurent in Ottawa and Woodgate Plaza in St. John’s, Newfoundland, that those stores will soon close.

The documents also show that Toys “R” Us Canada will return those two properties to their landlords, along with two other locations already closed at Niagara Pen Centre in Ontario and in Vaudreuil‑Dorion, Quebec.

These closures come as the retailer prepares to return to court next month to seek approval to launch a sale process.

Montreal man charged with human trafficking arrested in Calgary

A Montreal man accused of human trafficking has been arrested in Calgary, Alberta’s ALERT law‑enforcement teams announced Friday.

According to the agency, Neylson Benoit‑Ancion, 33, was arrested on March 12 with assistance from local police. The arrest follows an investigation launched after a Crime Stoppers tip.

He faces several charges, including human trafficking, obtaining a material benefit from sexual services, procuring, and advertising a person for sexual services.

So far, police have identified two victims. ALERT says additional victims have been identified and are encouraged to come forward.

Benoit‑Ancion has been released from custody. His next court appearance is scheduled for April 10.

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💫 Spotlight

In Pierrefonds, an intercommunity Eid dinner brought together dozens of community leaders, elected officials, and organizations from across Montreal to celebrate differences while recognizing shared values of respect, compassion, and community.

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👋 Before we go

Keeping it simple this morning after a busy week: stay informed, take a coffee break, and move forward one step at a time.

See you tomorrow.