Categories
Daily

Laval Today. May. 7, 2026

Laval QC ☕ The morning chat

Good morning,

Today brings a mix of concrete local news, provincial decisions that shape daily life, and a few files that show just how connected our region is to the rest of the province and the country. From public safety in Laval to energy drinks in pharmacies and major political choices in Québec, here’s what you need to start your day, without the unnecessary noise.

Top Stories

  • $8K penalty for Liberal MNA Lakhoyan Olivier recommended by ethics commissioner: The ethics commissioner recommends an $8,000 fine for Chomedey MNA Sona Lakhoyan Olivier for partisan activities carried out in her constituency office.
  • Québec’s electoral map partially redrawn: The number of provincial ridings would increase from 125 to 127.
  • The debate over energy drinks is intensifying: After the withdrawal of these products at Familiprix, the Order of Pharmacists and several chains are urging Quebec to consider age restrictions.
  • Is Québec’s Digital Health Record the cure for managing our medical information? The tool is meant to centralize patient health data.

Close to Home

  • Montreal urges Québec to act as water infrastructure deteriorates: More than 10 percent of the city’s water infrastructure is rated in poor or very poor condition.
  • Laval police renew call for information in 2024 attempted murder case: Reminder: Laval police are seeking the public’s help in the investigation involving businessman Ali Chaaban, which they link to extortion.

Society & Politics

  • Milliard stumbles by referring to “two official languages”: His comments fuel criticism from the CAQ and PQ over the status of French.
  • Québec Solidaire to table bill on use of the notwithstanding clause: The debate over this constitutional tool returns to the forefront.
  • Superior Court overturns “flawed” inquiry report on Tamara Thermitus: The ruling finds the report was unreasonable and tainted.
  • “Serious breach of dignity”: Innu man’s death recalls Joyce Echaquan case: The Québec Ombudsperson identifies several failures in the care provided to Philippe Pinette.

Across Canada and Beyond

  • Carney government wants faster pipeline approvals: An announcement is expected later this week.
  • Canadian Armed Forces must refocus on defending Canada, says Gen. Carignan: She argues the military has lost sight of its core mission by being too involved in humanitarian work abroad.
  • Hantavirus: three Canadians isolating after cruise ship outbreak: Two Ontarians and one Quebecer are affected.
  • Hantavirus: dozens of passengers left the ship after the first death: The outbreak has caused three deaths and several illnesses.
  • Alberta separatism: fertile ground for foreign interference: A report claims Russian and American actors are already trying to exploit divisions. How neutral such a document truly is remains an open question.

Main Story

Chomedey MNA faces recommended $8,000 fine

The ethics commissioner of the National Assembly is recommending an $8,000 penalty against Chomedey MNA Sona Lakhoyan Olivier for using her constituency office and public resources for partisan purposes. According to the report, her staff and office space served as a “war room” supporting Pablo Rodriguez’s 2025 Liberal leadership campaign.

The investigation found that staff members were asked to take part in partisan activities during work hours, and that the MNA attempted to influence their responses during the inquiry. The commissioner also notes that messages and images were deleted from a professional chat channel after the investigation began, and that Lakhoyan Olivier activated disappearing‑message features to limit access to the conversation history.

Beyond the actions themselves, the commissioner highlights a lack of cooperation and a “lack of respect” toward staff, which increases the seriousness of the violations. The report even recommends amending the ethics code to require mandatory ethics training for newly elected MNAs at the start of their term.

Politically, the fallout is already visible. Liberal leader Charles Milliard confirmed that Lakhoyan Olivier will remain expelled from caucus and will not run for the party in the next election. Québec Solidaire MNA Ruba Ghazal says the sanction is insufficient and is calling for broader answers about internal PLQ practices. The case unfolds against the backdrop of Pablo Rodriguez’s resignation last December following allegations related to his leadership campaign financing.

In Depth

Three Canadians isolating after hantavirus outbreak on cruise ship

The hantavirus outbreak detected aboard the MV Hondius continues to have repercussions in Canada. Two Canadian passengers have returned to Ontario and are now isolating under daily monitoring by public health authorities. A third Canadian, from Québec, was not on the ship but may have been exposed during the return flight. He is also isolating as a precaution.

All three individuals are asymptomatic, and health officials say they pose no risk to the public. Ontario says it is receiving regular updates, noting that four Canadians were aboard the Hondius. Global Affairs Canada says the Quebecer is not considered a high‑risk contact by the World Health Organization.

Hantavirus, transmitted through exposure to the droppings or saliva of infected rodents, can cause severe respiratory illness. The outbreak on the ship, which departed Argentina in April, has resulted in three deaths and several other cases, prompting medical evacuations to the Netherlands.

Beyond these specific cases, the episode highlights how quickly public attention shifts toward rare and dramatic threats, while more common and steadily rising public‑health issues struggle to draw the same vigilance. For the authorities, the real difficulty is maintaining a consistent response, whether it involves an exotic virus on a ship or well-known infections that progress more quietly.

Québec to add two ridings to its electoral map

The government and opposition have agreed to increase the number of provincial ridings from 125 to 127.

The change comes just months before the next election. Redrawing the map has already caused friction, especially around how seats are distributed between regions.

It’s not the flashiest topic of the morning, but it’s the kind of decision that directly shapes political representation. And when it comes to electoral boundaries, the lines often matter more than they seem.

Coup de Cœur

Some mornings feel heavy, and others just need a small reminder to stay balanced. Tomorrow, the Canadiens get another shot at the Sabres, and it’s comforting to know that a few simple, shared rituals still exist. In a week where everything seems to be debated, questioned, or scrutinized, a hockey game can sometimes be the easiest way to catch your breath.

Closing

Take what you need from this bulletin and leave the rest for later.

A good morning doesn’t have to be perfect to be solid. Sometimes all it takes is a bit of clarity, an honest coffee, and a few reliable markers to start the day. ☕

Categories
Daily

Laval Today. May. 6, 2026

Laval QC ☕ The morning chat

Good morning,

Today we stay close to home, with a call for witnesses in Laval, a story of perseverance on the North Shore, and a few updates that touch daily life more broadly across Québec and Canada. There is a bit of gastronomy, a bit of consumer news, and just enough concrete information to start your day without getting lost in the noise.

What to Know This Morning

  • Laval police reopen a 2024 attempted murder case: A command post has been set up on boulevard de l’Avenir to gather information from the public.
  • A Blainville artist continues her work despite serious health challenges: Catherine Lavoie keeps painting, drawing inspiration in part from the Montreal Canadiens.
  • Energy drinks pulled from Familiprix pharmacies: The Ordre des pharmaciens du Québec cites cardiovascular risks, especially when combined with certain medications.
  • Honda may slow its Canadian electric vehicle project: A media report suggests the company could shift its North American strategy toward hybrids.
  • Montréal earns two new Michelin stars: Sushi Nishinokaze and Hoogan et Beaufort join the list of one‑star restaurants.
  • Friday’s Lotto Max climbs to 80 million dollars in Québec: The draw includes a 70‑million‑dollar jackpot and an estimated 10 Maxmillions.
  • OpenAI violated privacy laws without facing penalties: The case is a reminder that these issues often move faster than our morning coffee.

Top Story

Laval police reopen investigation into the attempted murder of Ali Chaaban

Laval police are asking the public for help in the investigation into the February 2024 attempted murder of businessman Ali Chaaban. A command post was set up on May 6 near 1690 boulevard de l’Avenir.

On February 9, 2024, around 1 p.m., police received several 911 calls reporting gunshots in a commercial parking lot. Officers found 33‑year‑old Ali Chaaban with gunshot wounds.

Investigators believe the incident was linked to an attempted extortion. Police also say one of his businesses was targeted twice by acts of violence before shutting down.

The case remains very active, and the renewed call to the public shows investigators are still working to move concrete elements forward. For Laval, this is a heavy, deeply local story tied to broader public safety concerns.

In‑Depth Stories

In Blainville, Catherine Lavoie keeps painting despite surgery and serious health challenges

Blainville‑based artist Catherine Lavoie continues her work while recovering from surgery related to a likely benign brain tumour and a rare inner‑ear condition affecting her balance and hearing.

She says her work has evolved over the past seven years and remains driven by emotion, movement and instinct. Her style sits between abstract and figurative.

The Montreal Canadiens often appear in her creative world, especially during the playoffs, as a symbol of connection. In her current journey, painting seems to hold an even stronger place, both as an artistic practice and as an anchor.

Familiprix pharmacies remove energy drinks following pharmacists’ recommendation

The Ordre des pharmaciens du Québec recommends removing energy drinks from pharmacies due to cardiovascular risks when combined with psychostimulants and other medications.

Familiprix quickly announced the complete withdrawal of these products across its network. New signage will also encourage patients to discuss their energy drink consumption with their pharmacist.

The Association des bannières et des chaînes de pharmacies du Québec is asking the government to consider setting a minimum age for access. For families and young people, this is a very concrete issue tied to everyday consumption habits.

Honda may more clearly slow its 15‑billion‑dollar Canadian electric vehicle project

A media report says Honda Motor plans to more firmly pause development of its 15‑billion‑dollar Canadian electric vehicle complex.

The same report says weaker U.S. demand for electric vehicles could push the company to refocus its North American strategy on hybrids. Honda Canada says it has nothing to announce for now.

Even if the project does not directly affect Laval, decisions of this scale reach far beyond a single plant. When a major industrial investment slows in Canada, it draws attention well outside the auto sector.

Montréal adds two new Michelin stars to its culinary map

Two Montréal restaurants, Sushi Nishinokaze and Hoogan et Beaufort, have earned one Michelin star following the update to the Québec edition of the guide.

Montréal now has five one‑star restaurants, with Jérôme Ferrer‑Europea, Mastard and Sabayon keeping theirs. For residents of Laval and the North Shore, it is simply another excellent reason to cross the bridge with an appetite and a bit of planning.

Coup de Cœur

Catherine Lavoie’s story is a reminder that some people keep creating even when life decides to complicate the schedule. On the North Shore, that kind of perseverance feels both simple and powerful.

Wrapping Up

That’s your morning overview. Take what you need, keep a bit of momentum for the rest of the day, and move forward once again with that very local mix of caution, curiosity and coffee. ☕

Categories
Daily

Laval Today. May. 5, 2026

Laval QC ☕ The morning chat

Good morning,

Today we’re keeping an eye on a major case in Laval, several political developments moving forward in Quebec City, and some very practical news for households here at home. There’s also plenty to watch in transport, the census, and the regional economy… a lineup that gets straight to the point.

The Essentials

  • Pierre Ny St‑Amand challenges his high‑risk designation: The man found not criminally responsible after the Laval daycare tragedy is seeking to appeal that designation.
  • 2026 Census letters are arriving: Households and agricultural operations will soon receive instructions on how to respond by May 12.
  • AirAsia expected to announce the purchase of 150 aircraft in Mirabel: Mark Carney and Christine Fréchette are scheduled to be at the Airbus site on Wednesday.
  • Louise Arbour will become Canada’s next Governor General: The announcement was made Tuesday by Prime Minister Mark Carney.

To Watch

  • Quebec renewing the notwithstanding clause for Bill 96: Christine Fréchette is expected to table a bill on Wednesday.
  • Bill 1 on Quebec’s Constitution returning quickly: Simon Jolin‑Barrette says it will be adopted by June 12.
  • Artificial intelligence could reshape the labour market far more than expected: Several sectors central to Laval, from logistics to professional services, may need to adapt quickly.

Close to Home

  • Montréal study clarifies the role of vitamin K in bone health: Researchers have better identified how this vitamin influences the balance between cells that break down bone and those that rebuild it.
  • Greater Montréal preparing for strong winds and rain: Significant gusts and showers are expected through mid‑week.

Top Story

Pierre Ny St‑Amand challenges his high‑risk designation after the Laval daycare tragedy

Pierre Ny St‑Amand, the man found not criminally responsible after driving a bus into a Laval daycare in 2023, is appealing his designation as a high‑risk accused.

The Quebec Court of Appeal has granted him additional time to file his notice of appeal. His lawyers now have until September 4 to submit the required documents.

The designation, imposed in March, keeps him under stricter conditions at the Philippe‑Pinel Institute in Montréal, particularly regarding authorized absences.

It is recalled that two children were killed and six others were injured in the tragedy.

In Depth

AirAsia expected to announce the purchase of 150 aircraft in Mirabel

An announcement is expected Wednesday at the Airbus site in Mirabel regarding AirAsia’s purchase of 150 aircraft.

Mark Carney and Christine Fréchette are scheduled to attend.

No further details have been released for now, but the announcement places Mirabel at the centre of a significant economic file for the region.

Quebec revives several political files, including Bill 96 and Bill 1

Christine Fréchette is set to table a bill renewing the notwithstanding clause tied to Bill 96. The clause is intended to shield the law from certain legal challenges.

The National Assembly returns for a 17‑day session with several items on the agenda.

In the same context, Simon Jolin‑Barrette says Bill 1 on Quebec’s Constitution will be reintroduced and adopted by June 12, with support from Éric Duhaime’s Conservatives.

AI could disrupt far more industries in Canada than many expect

The rapid rise of artificial intelligence is raising increasingly concrete questions about the labour market, here and elsewhere.

People often think first of programming or administrative tasks, but the potential effects go much further. Accounting, law, certain financial services, advertising, design, music, film, and many software tools used in business could all be affected.

For a city like Laval, the issue is worth watching closely. Logistics, manufacturing, professional services, and many office‑based roles may need to adapt as these tools become more widespread.

For now, governments and businesses are still trying to gauge the scale of the shift. One thing already seems clear: artificial intelligence is not just a technology‑sector issue.

Coup de Cœur

Seeing Mirabel return to the spotlight for an industrial announcement of this scale is a reminder that the North Shore doesn’t just keep pace… it helps set it.

Before we go

That’s the main news this morning. Between justice files, transport, politics, and the regional economy, the day starts with concrete developments and a few points to keep in mind before the second coffee. ☕

Categories
Daily

Laval Today. May. 4, 2026

Laval QC ☕ The morning chat

Good morning,

Today we start with an upcoming increase in public transit fares across Greater Montréal, something that will affect many everyday trips. We’re also keeping an eye on the rain and strong winds expected this week, on a few Quebec files that continue to move slowly, and on several federal decisions that could have broader impacts.

In Brief

  • Public transit fares will increase on July 1 in Greater Montréal: Monthly passes will go up, while single tickets and one‑ or two‑trip passes will remain unchanged.
  • A stretch of rain and strong winds is settling over Montréal until mid‑week: Tuesday could bring gusts up to 70 km/h, heavier showers, and a risk of thunderstorms.
  • The 2026 Census begins across the country: Households will receive a letter with instructions on how to respond.
  • Ottawa announces $1.5 billion in support in response to new U.S. tariffs: Part of the aid targets manufacturers affected by surcharges on products containing steel, aluminum, or copper.

Society & Politics

  • Return‑to‑office expands in the federal public service: Executives are now back full‑time, and unionized employees will be required to return four days a week starting July 6.
  • The PEQ still hasn’t reopened: The relaunch of the Quebec Experience Program was among Christine Fréchette’s commitments, but it remains on hold.
  • Quebec gives the green light to a digital‑health rollout in two CIUSSS: Pilot projects will take place in Montréal and Mauricie.
  • Paul St‑Pierre Plamondon promises to cut homelessness in half: He presents this as the top social priority of a potential PQ government.

To Watch

  • Federal audits highlight several shortcomings: They point to issues in funding for First Nations, avian flu vaccines, accommodation requests in the public service, and flood‑zone mapping.
  • Teachers say they lack tools to deal with artificial intelligence in the classroom: There is still uncertainty around how to regulate a technology already widely used by students.
  • Patients now expect concrete changes following the agreement with medical specialists: Wait times remain high across the network.
  • The restaurant sector continues to struggle: More than one‑third of Canadian restaurants are reportedly operating at a loss or just breaking even.

Main Story

Public transit fares will increase on July 1 in Greater Montréal

The change is simple enough to remember, even if no one on the metro, bus, or train will be thrilled. Starting July 1, public transit fares across Greater Montréal will rise by an average of 3 per cent.

More specifically, regular monthly passes will increase by $5.50, and reduced‑fare passes by $3.25. Monthly bus‑only passes will also go up.

As for occasional fares, single tickets and one‑ or two‑trip passes will remain unchanged. The ARTM is also removing certain temporary fare options linked to the REM on the South Shore. For trips combining the REM and buses, riders will need to purchase standard all‑mode passes.

The stated goal is to limit the financial impact on users while maintaining service quality and network stability. In practice, this means that people who rely on monthly passes will feel the change sooner than those who travel occasionally.

For a Closer Look

A period of rain and strong winds expected through mid‑week

After a brief lull, the weather is expected to turn more unsettled in the coming days in Montréal. Tuesday looks particularly windy, with sustained winds of 50 km/h and gusts reaching up to 70 km/h, along with heavier showers and a risk of thunderstorms.

Rain is expected to continue Tuesday night and Wednesday, with cooler temperatures. Thursday should remain cloudy with another chance of showers. In short, this week calls more for a windbreaker than for any big weather optimism.

Ottawa puts $1.5 billion on the table to help businesses hit by U.S. tariffs

The federal government is announcing $1.5 billion in support in response to the expansion of U.S. tariff criteria. One billion dollars will flow through the Business Development Bank of Canada to support the manufacturing sector, and $500 million will be added to the regional tariff‑response fund.

Affected businesses will be able to access low‑interest loans of up to $50 million over three years. The government says it wants to provide short‑term liquidity while helping exporters adapt and develop new markets.

The 2026 Census begins this week across the country

The 2026 Census begins Monday across Canada. Households will receive a letter with instructions on how to complete the questionnaire.

It’s one of those administrative steps that never steals the spotlight but ends up shaping many public decisions. Once again, it’s worth keeping an eye on the mailbox.

Federal audits highlight delays, blind spots, and a lot of poorly managed paperwork

Five audits released Monday reveal several issues within the federal system. One concludes that Indigenous Services Canada did not effectively implement, monitor, or evaluate certain funding provided to First Nations.

Another notes that 95 per cent of avian flu vaccines purchased by the Public Health Agency of Canada expired without being used. The audits also point to delays in accommodation requests within the public service, gaps in flood‑zone mapping, and weaknesses in tracking the federal climate strategy.

Coup de Cœur

Even in a busy news cycle, there’s something reassuring about seeing Montréal prepare a full year of activities to mark the 50th anniversary of the 1976 Olympics. Exhibitions, sports events, outdoor cinema, tours, and free gatherings — all of it is a reminder that an urban legacy can still be a meeting place, not just a framed memory.

In Closing

Thanks for spending part of your morning with us.

We’re heading into a day filled with movement… on the roads, in mailboxes, and across public agendas. A good dose of coffee helps, but a good summary does too. ☕

Categories
Daily

Laval Today. May. 2, 2026

Laval QC ☕ The Weekend Chat

Good moning,

On the menu today: concrete stories, things happening right around us, and a few broader topics that shape daily life, from childcare spaces to the cost of living. We start with the essentials, then take a bit more time for the stories that deserve more than a single line.

What to know this morning

  • Québec plans to subsidize 5,000 daycare spaces starting this fall: The government wants to convert non‑subsidized spaces into subsidized ones, including about 500 in CPEs.
  • Minimum wage rises to $16.60 an hour in Québec: The 50‑cent increase will affect about 198,000 workers, many of them young people.
  • French language: one in four businesses inspected by the OQLF in Greater Montréal was non‑compliant: The verification operation showed a 77% compliance rate.
  • The Bell Centre will host a watch party for Game 7 between the Canadiens and the Lightning: Tickets are $12, and the game will be played Sunday in Tampa Bay.
  • At least 13 arrests during a Friday‑night protest in Montréal: SPVM says projectiles were thrown and a pyrotechnic device may have been launched toward bystanders.
  • Ottawa invests $9.8M to build a national soccer training centre: Canada Soccer says it received 18 proposals, with no confirmed location yet.
  • Canadian touring artists say rising fuel costs are making the road barely viable: Higher expenses are putting even more pressure on the live‑performance economy.
  • Air Canada’s next CEO will be able to speak French: The commitment was confirmed at the company’s annual shareholders’ meeting.
  • Mark Carney travels to Armenia on Saturday for trade discussions: The trip will focus on Ukraine’s defence as well as trade and investment in Europe.

Close to home

  • OQLF releases results of a major inspection operation on commercial arteries: The agency checked access to service in French, French‑language invoices, and French‑language payment terminals.
  • Independent dépanneurs: innovating to stay competitive: Inflation and competition remain the biggest challenges.
  • Free Comic Book Day: Local bookstores and comic shops offering free titles today… a rare chance for families and fans to leave with something new without opening their wallets.
  • Kaninou kennel repeatedly warned by MAPAQ before a dog’s death: MAPAQ had identified 42 issues during previous inspections.
  • International Workers’ Day: events continue today across Québec: Activities are being held under the theme “trampled rights; we must resist.”
  • Activist group claims responsibility for new grocery store thefts in Montréal: SPVM confirms a theft at a Maxi in Rosemont.

Across Canada and beyond

  • Canada won’t use energy as leverage in CUSMA negotiations: Energy integration with the United States remains uncertain.
  • Alberta pipeline “more likely than not,” says Carney: Ottawa is leaning toward a southern route to reduce environmental opposition.
  • Spirit Airlines shuts down: what’s next for ultra‑low‑cost carriers? Spirit’s disappearance is seen as a sign that the ultra‑low‑cost model is faltering as expenses rise faster than revenue.
  • Iranian official says renewed war with the U.S. is “probable”: Despite the ceasefire, the situation remains at a standstill.
  • Alex Zanardi, former race‑car driver and Paralympic champion, dies at 59: His extraordinary journey after the accident that cost him both legs remains one of sport’s most remarkable stories.

Main story

Québec aims to convert 5,000 daycare spaces, with the rollout starting in the coming days

It’s not the kind of announcement that will dominate social media, but it could change the lives of thousands of parents. Québec is officially launching a call for proposals to convert 5,000 non‑subsidized daycare spaces into $9.65‑a‑day subsidized spaces, including up to 500 in CPEs. The call opens May 7 and closes May 29, with a tight schedule to deliver the first converted spaces this fall.

For families in Laval, where finding an affordable spot is still a weekly puzzle, this shift offers very real relief. The government is investing nearly $400 million over five years, and daycares will have to choose between two paths: converting their spaces while keeping their current status, or fully transitioning to the CPE model.

Since 2021, more than 37,000 new subsidized spaces have been created and nearly 11,000 have already been converted. With this new wave, the total approaches 16,000. Family Minister Catherine Blouin calls it a way to “put money back in parents’ pockets,” but on the ground, it’s mostly the promise of a slightly less stressful week for those juggling schedules, bills, and waitlists.

Selected projects will be announced this summer. If everything stays on track, the first families could see their bills drop this fall — a quiet change, but one that can reshape an entire week.

In depth

One in four businesses inspected by the OQLF in Greater Montréal was non‑compliant

The OQLF’s inspection operation in Greater Montréal found a 77% compliance rate with the Charter of the French Language, meaning one in four businesses inspected was not compliant.

The agency checked access to service in French, French‑language invoices, and French‑language payment terminals. These are concrete elements, and that’s exactly why the issue resonates beyond big‑picture language debates.

Minimum wage rises to $16.60 an hour in Québec

Minimum wage is increasing by 50 cents, reaching $16.60 an hour. About 198,000 workers, many of them young, will see their pay rise with this adjustment.

It’s a simple change to understand, but its impact won’t be felt the same way by everyone. For some, it’s a small relief. For others, it’s a reminder of how quickly the cost of living keeps climbing.

Touring becomes more fragile for Canadian artists as costs rise

Higher fuel, lodging, and food costs are making touring financially risky, and audiences are becoming more cautious with their spending.

The result is added pressure on the entire live‑performance ecosystem. It’s not just about big names or major venues, behind every tour is a network of workers and organizations trying to stay afloat.

Coup de cœur

The story on touring artists is a reminder of something simple: behind every show, there’s far more invisible work than we imagine. When culture holds on despite the pressure, there’s a kind of perseverance there that deserves to be noticed.

Before we go

Thanks for taking a few minutes to go through the essentials with us. Take what you need from this edition, keep an eye on what’s happening around you, and we’ll see you Monday for another virtual coffee. ☕

Categories
Daily

Laval Today. May. 1, 2026

Laval QC ☕ The morning chat

Good morning,

This morning’s brief looks at what’s moving across Laval and the North Shore: gas prices climbing past $2, police forces coordinating against extortion, and a few Québec files that shape daily life. Add a bit of transport, a bit of cost‑of‑living pressure, and just enough hockey to suggest the evening could get lively.

Top Stories This Morning

  • Gas tops $2 again in Laval: A station on boulevard Le Corbusier was showing 203.9 cents per litre Friday morning.
  • Reminder – Police forces join efforts against extortion: Laval is part of the UNIS project with Montréal, Longueuil and the Sûreté du Québec to better protect local businesses.
  • Extortion cases still rising in the metro region: Authorities report a notable increase.

To Watch

  • Fréchette aims to keep up the pace ahead of the election: The premier has highlighted several recent moves before the National Assembly resumes.
  • Canada will host the future Defence, Security and Resilience Bank: Prime Minister Carney’s Davos speech weighed heavily in the decision, according to negotiator Isabelle Hudon.

Elsewhere

  • The Canadiens can close out their series tonight at the Bell Centre: Montréal leads Tampa Bay 3–2.
  • Hydro‑Québec tweaks its logo mid‑series against the Lightning: The nod removes the lightning‑bolt shape from the “Q.”
  • Ottawa awaits information from OpenAI in the Tumbler Ridge case: The government wants clarity on safety protocols first.
  • The Pentagon has authorized production of HIMARS systems for Canada: Work is expected to continue through 2028.

Main Story

In Laval, gas climbs back above $2 per litre, and filling up becomes a calculation

Gas prices have once again crossed the $2‑per‑litre mark in parts of Greater Montréal, including Laval. One station on boulevard Le Corbusier was showing 203.9 cents Friday morning.

What stands out most is the spread between stations. Some are well above the threshold, while others remain slightly lower elsewhere in the region. For many drivers, a routine stop becomes a small comparison exercise before pulling out the card.

The report also notes that the Régie Essence Québec offers a tool to track prices. Sometimes, a few minutes’ detour can be worth more than a coffee.

In Depth

In Coaticook, two cousins reinvent the family farm

Two young producers from Coaticook, Kaïla and Sabrina Boivin, are taking over the Juar family farm and preparing to invest $7 million to modernize it. At 27, and mothers of very young children, they’re carrying forward a business passed down through six generations — and already dreaming of handing it to a seventh.

Their plan: build a new dairy complex where the 155 cows can move freely, rest on mats, and head to robotic milking stations on their own. It’s a small revolution for a farm founded in 1885, and a very concrete step toward better animal welfare and a lighter physical workload for the two entrepreneurs.

Between visiting more than thirty farms, training a new employee and managing short nights with their babies, the cousins are moving forward without hesitation. They want to work differently than their fathers did, with facilities designed for their reality and the future of the business.

In a sector where women are still under‑represented, their path reflects a new generation of agricultural leaders who are stepping up, training hard and reshaping their communities. And in their voices, you can already hear the pride of those building for the long term.

Kidnapping and Extortion: Silya Medkour Sentenced to Over Four Years

In Montréal, Silya Medkour has been sentenced to just over four years in prison for a 2023 kidnapping and extortion case that led to a widely shared police intervention on Cherrier Street. The incident circulated heavily on social media at the time, partly due to the chaotic attempt to flee before her arrest.

Medkour — now 22 — pleaded guilty to four charges, including kidnapping, extortion and aggravated assault. Having already spent significant time in pre‑trial custody, she has roughly three months left to serve. Her co‑accused is expected back in court next week.

According to the evidence, the case began in a short‑term rental where a dispute escalated and required a rapid police response. An anonymous tip allowed officers to locate the victim and intercept the two accused.

Authorities say the ruling comes as extortion and targeted violence continue to concern the metropolitan region. While each case is unique, the decision underscores how seriously the courts treat these situations and how coordinated police work remains essential to public safety.

Washington Approves New Cross‑Border Pipeline Project

In the United States, President Donald Trump has signed a presidential permit allowing Bridger Pipeline to move forward with a new pipeline linking the Canada–U.S. border to Wyoming. The project, which could transport up to 550,000 barrels of oil per day, inevitably recalls the debates surrounding Keystone XL, abandoned in 2021, though the exact route remains unclear.

In Canada, Ottawa has not indicated whether it supports the initiative, focusing instead on broader goals around energy security and market diversification. South Bow — the company created from the split of TC Energy — is exploring whether existing Keystone XL infrastructure could be reused, fuelling speculation about a potential connection between the two projects.

Even with the presidential permit, Bridger Pipeline still faces several regulatory steps, including in Montana and with the Bureau of Land Management. In other words, the political green light revives the file but does not guarantee imminent construction.

Coup de Cœur

There’s something deeply inspiring in the way Kaïla and Sabrina Boivin are taking over the family farm and shaping it with their own vision. Two young mothers, a six‑generation legacy and a bold modernization project centred on animal welfare and the next generation. It’s proof that you can honour what came before while opening the door to a more thoughtful, humane and sustainable way of working the land.

Before You Go

Wishing you a simple, efficient day, and a fill‑up that doesn’t sting too much. In Laval, when everything costs a little more, good information already goes a long way. ☕

Categories
Daily

Laval Today. Apr. 30, 2026

Laval QC ☕ The morning chat

Good morning,

This morning, Laval sits at the crossroads of public safety, essential services and a few issues that touch daily life in very concrete ways. There is also room to look a little farther, from Québec to the international scene, without losing sight of what matters here.

What to know this morning

  • Laval has a new police chief. Karine Ménard becomes the first woman to lead the Laval Police Service.
  • Laval joins a joint operation against extortion. The UNIS project brings together the SQ and the police services of Laval, Montréal and Longueuil to support targeted businesses.
  • Progress for patients without a family doctor, but the goal is still far off. Québec has registered 256,000 patients, including 138,000 considered vulnerable, toward its target of 500,000.
  • Minimum wage increases but remains below a living income. At $16.60 an hour, full‑time minimum‑wage work in Montréal still falls short of what is considered necessary to live with dignity.
  • A 911 call was routed to another province. The error delayed paramedics and the victim died.
  • Bestar shuts down. The Québec furniture manufacturer is ending its operations.

Close to home

  • A Montréal‑area mother creates a brush for sensory sensitivities. Janice Ayotte designed the product based on her daughter’s experience.
  • Montréal remains the most expensive city in Québec for families. IRIS estimates that a family of four needs $88,812 to live with dignity.
  • Québec solidaire calls for investment in the Montréal metro. The party says the network is aging and chronically underfunded.

Across the country

  • Press freedom declines worldwide. Canada ranks 20th in the annual Reporters Without Borders index.
  • Ottawa wants to reserve certain parcel searches for police. The proposal would apply to packages under 500 grams and still require a warrant.
  • The Supreme Court will hear the appeal in the Churchill portrait case. Jeffrey Wood is contesting the sentence he received after stealing the portrait from the Château Laurier.
  • Jonathan Wilkinson becomes Canada’s ambassador to the European Union. The former natural resources minister takes on a new diplomatic role.

Top Story

Laval strengthens its response to business extortion with a joint police operation

Laval is taking part in the UNIS project with the Sûreté du Québec and the police services of Montréal and Longueuil. The goal is to counter extortion targeting local businesses through a coordinated response.

The initiative includes prevention work, on‑site visits, better intelligence sharing and a coordinated police presence in the weeks ahead.

For residents and business owners, it is a very concrete issue. Behind the operation is a simple idea: a targeted business is not alone, and a shared response can help contain this kind of pressure.

In depth

Karine Ménard becomes the first woman to lead the Laval Police Service

Karine Ménard is now the chief of the Laval Police Service, the first woman to hold the position.

It is a milestone for both the institution and the city. In a service that plays such a central role in municipal life, a change like this matters far beyond an organizational chart.

Québec registers 256,000 patients without a family doctor, including 138,000 vulnerable

The latest update shows 256,000 patients registered toward the province’s target of 500,000. Of these, 138,000 are considered vulnerable.

The number shows real progress, but also how far there is to go. For many families, access to a primary care professional does not feel like a public debate. It feels like a wait that keeps stretching on.

Minimum wage rises to $16.60 but remains far from a living income

Québec’s minimum wage is increasing to $16.60 an hour. The study cited indicates that a full‑time minimum‑wage worker in Montréal would earn about $25,867 per year.

That is roughly two‑thirds of the estimated living income for a single person. The increase is real, but it does not change the equation for those who count every expense.

A 911 call routed to another province delayed emergency response

A 911 call for a cardiac emergency was routed to another province, which delayed the arrival of paramedics.

The victim died. It is brief, but it hits hard, because a service this essential depends on speed and proper routing in the first seconds. When the chain breaks at that moment, the consequences should never be possible.

Coup de Cœur

There is something deeply useful in creating from a lived need. The brush designed by Janice Ayotte is a reminder that a simple, thoughtful solution can ease a difficult moment for many families.

Closing

Wishing you a steady, clear day that feels a little less rushed than expected. And if your morning is already moving fast, at least you have the essentials in hand. ☕

Categories
Daily

Laval Today. Apr. 29, 2026

Laval QC ☕ The morning chat

Greetings,

This morning, we’re focusing mainly on what hits the wallet most directly: Quebec is cutting taxes for 75,000 small and medium-sized businesses, a move that could have very real effects for many entrepreneurs and workers in Laval.

We’re also looking at two practical reminders for anyone who regularly heads into Montreal, including an important update on measles. In short, this is a short but useful edition, firmly rooted in everyday life on the North Shore.

What to know this morning

  • The Bank of Canada is holding its key interest rate at 2.25%: This is the fourth straight hold, and it remains something to watch closely for housing, mortgages, and the cost of living.
  • Quebec is cutting taxes for 75,000 small and medium-sized businesses: The measure amounts to nearly $630 million over five years, or up to $5,000 per year for each business owner.
  • Ottawa wants to invest in construction, while Quebec is defending its jurisdiction: The federal government is planning to spend $6 billion over five years, while Quebec is stressing that workforce training falls under its authority.
  • Lotto Max will offer $66 million on Friday: The next draw will include a $60 million jackpot and six Maxmillions prizes.

Worth watching

  • Sports organizations want energy drinks banned for those under 16: About a dozen Quebec groups are calling for tighter rules to limit young people’s access to these products.
  • Montreal-Trudeau Airport is changing access to the arrivals area until May 1: Vehicles are being redirected to the departures area daily from 6 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
  • A possible measles exposure has been flagged at three Montreal locations: Public health officials are reminding people that measles is highly contagious and outlining who is considered protected.

Main story

Quebec cuts taxes for 75,000 small and medium-sized businesses, with direct impact for Laval

The Quebec government is immediately lowering the tax rate for small and medium-sized businesses from 3.2% to 2.2%. The announcement represents nearly $630 million in tax relief over five years for about 75,000 businesses across the province.

Each business owner could save up to $5,000 a year. In Laval, where small and medium-sized businesses play a major role in the local economy, that added flexibility could translate into investment, hiring, or simply a bit more breathing room at a time when operating costs have been rising.

The government is presenting the measure as a way to strengthen the competitiveness of Quebec businesses and support their growth in a changing economic environment. It comes on top of other existing programs, including the SME Plan 2025–2028 and several regional development initiatives.

For owners of shops, professional services, or family businesses in Laval, this is the kind of announcement that could have concrete effects over the coming months.

Going a little deeper

The 2.25% key interest rate is still shaping everyday financial decisions

The Bank of Canada is holding its key interest rate at 2.25%. The text notes that this is the fourth straight hold.

For people in Laval and across the North Shore, this is the kind of decision that affects several parts of daily life at once, especially housing, mortgages, and the cost of living. It may not be dramatic, but it is exactly the kind of update that ends up making its way into a lot of very practical conversations.

Ottawa is betting on the skilled trades, while Quebec is drawing a line around its role

The federal economic update includes $6 billion over five years to attract between 80,000 and 100,000 young people into construction trades.

Quebec says it is ready to work with Ottawa, while also insisting that workforce training is under provincial jurisdiction. Behind that institutional disagreement is a very concrete question: who trains, who pays, and how the labour shortage in an already stretched sector is going to be addressed.

Two practical reminders for Laval residents heading into Montreal

Montreal-Trudeau Airport is temporarily closing its arrivals area every day from 6 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. until May 1. During those hours, vehicles are being redirected to the departures area.

At the same time, Montreal public health says there may have been measles exposure at three locations visited around the middle of the month. Measles is highly contagious, and people considered protected are those who have received two doses of the vaccine or who have previously had the disease. For everyone else, it is recommended to watch for symptoms during the 14 days following a possible exposure.

Symptoms to watch for:

  • a sudden high fever
  • a persistent cough
  • a runny nose and red eyes that are sensitive to light
  • small whitish spots in the mouth
  • a rash that begins on the face before spreading to the rest of the body

If these symptoms appear, it is recommended to avoid close contact with others and call Info-Santé 811 before going to a clinic. For reliable and up-to-date information, the INSPQ remains a strong reference point.

Two very different updates, but both useful if your regular travel plans take you across the bridge.

Coup de cœur

Tax relief that directly affects thousands of business owners is never really abstract. In Laval, where small and medium-sized businesses make up a big part of the local economy, this kind of measure is a reminder that a city’s vitality also lives in its workshops, offices, storefronts, and small teams quietly keeping things moving every day.

Wrapping up

Wishing you a smooth rest of the day, easy travels, and a coffee that is somehow still warm when you get back to it. That small miracle always deserves a little respect. ☕

Categories
Daily

Laval Today. Apr. 28, 2026

Laval QC ☕ The morning chat

Good morning,

Today’s roundup is all about what’s concrete, local, and useful. We’re looking at a police investigation in Sainte‑Dorothée, hockey at Place Bell, transport changes in Montréal, and a few Québec‑level files that could have very real effects on your day‑to‑day life.

What to know this morning

  • Montréal’s LPHF team will open its semifinal at Place Bell The team has chosen the Minnesota Frost as its opponent, and the series begins May 2 in Laval.
  • Montréal’s metro extends its anti‑loitering rule to 2027 The STM says the measure has helped reduce certain incidents and service interruptions.
  • Montréal‑Trudeau Airport is modifying access to the arrivals area until May 1 Morning traffic is being redirected to the departures level during construction work.
  • Possible measles exposures reported in Montréal Three locations have been identified, including the Montréal Casino and an indoor golf centre.
  • Québec appoints Louise Blais as emissary for the CUSMA review She’ll be working with the federal team as the process begins July 1.

Here at home and nearby

  • An LPHF matchup is coming to Laval The semifinal between Montréal and the Frost will be played at Place Bell, putting Laval once again at the centre of a major sports moment.

Across Québec and Canada

  • Québec Liberals propose an increased QST rebate on new homes The measure would apply to properties valued at $500,000 or less, with rebates up to $10,000.
  • Québec sports organizations call for an energy‑drink ban for youth under 16 A petition supporting the idea has gathered more than 31,000 signatures.

Top Story

Montréal’s LPHF team will open its semifinal at Place Bell in Laval

Montréal has chosen the Minnesota Frost as its semifinal opponent after finishing first in the Professional Women’s Hockey League standings.

Game 1 is set for May 2 at 2 p.m. at Place Bell in Laval.

Montréal won all four of its regular‑season matchups against Minnesota this year, including two in overtime. The other semifinal will feature Ottawa versus Boston.

For a closer look

STM extends its anti‑loitering rule in the Montréal metro until 2027

The Société de transport de Montréal is extending its mandatory‑circulation rule in the metro until April 30, 2027. The measure allows special constables to intervene when someone is in a station for reasons unrelated to transit.

The STM says the rule has been applied roughly 2,500 times per month.

Between November 2025 and March 2026, service interruptions caused by intentional acts dropped by 22%, and late‑night escorts out of stations fell by 36% compared to the previous year.

Even if it’s happening in Montréal, it’s the kind of measure that affects many Laval residents who rely on the metro. Daily commutes rarely appreciate surprises.

Possible measles exposures reported at three Montréal locations

Montréal public health reports that a contagious individual from outside the region visited three locations in mid‑April.

  • April 17: Golf intérieur Le Birdie Rosemont, 5:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.
  • April 18: Montréal Casino, midnight to 5 a.m.
  • April 17–18: Hôtel Les Suites Saint‑François‑Xavier in Old Montréal (two separate time windows)

People considered protected include those who have received two doses of the measles vaccine. Unvaccinated individuals must isolate at home from day 5 to day 14 after exposure.

Québec Liberals propose increasing the QST rebate for new‑home buyers

The Québec Liberal Party is proposing a rebate of 36% of the QST paid on a new home, up to a maximum of $10,000, for properties valued at $500,000 or less.

For multi‑unit buildings, the rebate could reach $30,000, depending on the number of units.

The party frames the measure as a temporary five‑year response to the housing crisis. The annual cost is estimated at $125 million.

Coup de Cœur

Seeing Laval host another major sports moment at Place Bell isn’t just a line on a schedule. It’s a reminder that the city still knows how to bring people together… those evenings when everyone’s attention turns in the same direction.

Before we go

Thanks for starting your day with us.

Take what you need from this bulletin , the quick version or the deeper dive, then head into the rest of your day with the essentials in hand and, hopefully, a warm coffee. ☕

Categories
Daily

Laval Today. Apr. 27, 2026

Laval QC 🌆 Evening Edition

Good evening,

Before we wrap up for the day, here’s a clear look at what moved in Laval and beyond. A straight‑to‑the‑point evening edition.

Top Stories Today

  • Quebec tightens enforcement of posted tipping rules : More than 500 complaints have been filed over non‑compliance with the new regulations in restaurants, bars and food establishments.
  • WestJet edges closer to a labour dispute : The union representing more than 4,000 flight attendants says it is only a few steps away from a strike position.
  • Ottawa set to announce Canada’s first sovereign wealth fund : The federal economic update on Tuesday is expected to include the creation of this fund.
  • Canadians Las Vegas is trying to win back : Travel to the United States continues to decline. In 2025, return trips by Canadians dropped 25%, and the trend is continuing this year. The U.S. tourism industry is multiplying efforts to bring this clientele back.
  • A decisive week for the WHO : Negotiations on vaccine‑ and pathogen‑sharing are expected to wrap up this week as part of the push to advance the global pandemic treaty. Several people have expressed concerns that these discussions could reduce their ability to make decisions about their own bodily autonomy.
  • Global military spending keeps rising : It reached USD 2.887 trillion in 2025.

Local Stories

  • Explosion and fire destroy a home in Sainte‑Dorothée : A violent blast tore through a house on Boudreau Street Saturday afternoon. Laval police are treating the incident as arson and are searching for a suspect seen leaving the scene.
  • Laval police searching for a driver in Sainte‑Dorothée : Police are asking for the public’s help after a motorist approached pedestrians, including a minor, on April 20. A mobile command post will be set up near Jolibourg and Bord‑de‑l’Eau.
  • Laval Comiccon draws strong crowds : The event’s third edition attracted large numbers throughout the weekend, confirming its growing appeal at Place Bell.

Across Quebec

  • New campaign targets discrimination on construction sites : The construction industry is launching an initiative against harassment and degrading remarks at work.
  • Montreal researchers advance antiviral discovery : Two new natural molecules have been identified in work linked to the Clinical Research Institute of Montreal.
  • New cinema opening in Saint‑Léonard : Ciné Starz will open a theatre on May 1 in the former Guzzo location on Boulevard des Grandes‑Prairies.

Main Story

Laval police seek public’s help to identify driver who approached pedestrians in Sainte‑Dorothée

Laval police are looking to identify a driver involved in an incident on April 20 in Sainte‑Dorothée. A man driving a blue Nissan Versa reportedly approached pedestrians, including a minor. A mobile command post will be set up near Jolibourg and Bord‑de‑l’Eau.

Details remain limited, but police say the man’s words and behaviour warrant an investigation to clarify the situation and his intentions.

The vehicle sought is a blue Nissan Versa from model years 2007 to 2013. The mobile command post will be in place between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.

The file number is LVL‑260420‑053.

In Depth

Explosion and arson investigation in Sainte‑Dorothée

A violent explosion preceded the fire that destroyed a home on Boudreau Street in Sainte‑Dorothée on Saturday afternoon. Neighbours described a blast strong enough to shake windows, followed by a thick black cloud and the rapid collapse of the façade.

Police are treating the incident as a criminal act. A man in his forties suffered severe burns, and investigators are working to determine what happened.

A large security perimeter was set up and a suspect is being sought. According to one witness, a man dressed in black was seen watching the scene before leaving quickly in a dark vehicle. Police are also reviewing nearby surveillance footage.

Firefighters brought the blaze under control later in the day but remained on site for hours to douse the debris. The motive remains unknown.

Quebec receives more than 500 complaints over tipping rules

The Office de la protection du consommateur received 531 complaints between May 7, 2025, and mid‑March 2026 regarding non‑compliance with the new tipping rules.

Almost all complaints targeted restaurants, bars and food establishments. The agency also inspected 185 businesses; 179 were found non‑compliant and issued correction notices.

WestJet flight attendants move closer to strike position

The union representing more than 4,000 WestJet flight attendants has filed a formal notice of dispute after months of negotiations without an agreement.

A key issue is unpaid work, estimated at an average of 35 hours per month. The union is also seeking improvements to scheduling and working conditions and says it is only a few steps away from a strike position.

Montreal researchers identify new natural antiviral molecules

A scientific team linked to the Clinical Research Institute of Montreal has identified two new natural compounds called dicitriosides.

In experimental conditions, these molecules were up to 25 times more effective than the original extract against the Ebola virus and SARS‑CoV‑2. Researchers are now working to produce enough material for animal testing.

Coup de Cœur

Laval Comiccon may not have changed the world, but seeing a local event fill its aisles and bring people together around shared enthusiasm is already great news for a city. Sometimes, an excited crowd is its own kind of collective well‑being.

Before We Go

Thanks for ending the day with us. Wishing you a quiet evening, a bit of rest, and the pleasure of unplugging before taking on tomorrow with a clear mind. ☕