Category: Daily

Laval QC ☕ The morning chat

Good morning,

Today starts with a major criminal case in Laval, followed by a look at several issues that directly affect daily lif, from transportation to municipal services to public‑policy decisions.

We also take a step back to see what’s moving across Québec and Canada, so we’re not just staring at the end of the boulevard.

Top Stories

• Laval police searching for possible additional victims in sexual‑exploitation case: A 53‑year‑old man has been arrested, and investigators are asking anyone who believes they may have been a victim to contact them confidentially.
• Emergency button failure on the REM after a passenger fell ill: A passenger had to wait for assistance when an emergency button failed to work on a train near Central Station.
• Montréal activates its intervention plan ahead of possible flooding: The city has begun deploying preventive measures in vulnerable areas.
• Second phase of blue‑collar strike in Montréal: The labour dispute continues with a new three‑day strike amid stalled negotiations.
• Québec pushes recycling targets to 2027–2030: The government is delaying the goals of the new recycling system to give more flexibility.
• One‑third of Quebecers report exposure to cannabis advertising: A survey shows exposure is especially high among younger people.
• Ottawa to present an economic update on April 28: The federal government will outline its fiscal situation and recent measures.

Across Canada

• Cree “first steps” ceremony held on Parliament Hill: A six‑month‑old child took part in a “walking out” ceremony, described as a first for the location.
• Finland’s president says Canada is taking a pragmatic path in an unstable geopolitical climate: Alexander Stubb praised Canada’s efforts to diversify trade beyond the United States.

Main Story

Laval seeks additional possible victims in sexual‑exploitation investigation

Laval police are investigating several alleged cases of sexual exploitation and procuring, and are now asking for the public’s help to identify any additional victims.

Sylvain Riopelle, 53, was arrested on April 14 under a warrant. Investigators allege that between 2024 and 2026, he used deception to target vulnerable individuals whom he then exploited sexually.

He is scheduled to appear in court Wednesday in Laval. Police are asking anyone who believes they may have been a victim to contact them confidentially.

In Depth

REM emergency‑button failure raises a simple but important question

A pregnant passenger who lost consciousness Tuesday morning on a REM train near Central Station had to wait for help after the emergency button in her car failed to work.

Passengers tried to alert authorities but received no response. It was ultimately another rider who called 911, allowing emergency services to intervene.

Pulsar says an additional inspection was carried out on all trains in service, and the affected train was removed from circulation.

Montréal prepares for possible flooding with preventive measures

The City of Montréal has activated its special intervention plan ahead of heavy rainfall and a potential rise in water levels.

The city says no flooding has been observed so far, but protective measures have already been installed in vulnerable sectors.

Areas identified as most at risk include Sainte‑Anne‑de‑Bellevue, Pierrefonds‑Roxboro, L’Île‑Bizard–Sainte‑Geneviève, and Ahuntsic‑Cartierville.

Québec delays recycling targets after determining they wouldn’t be met

The Québec government is pushing its recycling targets to 2027–2030, less than two years after the new system was launched.

Éco Entreprises Québec says it determined the goals could not be met within the original timeline.

The decision is meant to give businesses more flexibility. It’s not a minor scheduling tweak, it’s an acknowledgment that the planned pace wasn’t realistic.

Study shows cannabis advertising reaches a large share of Quebecers

A survey by the Institut de la statistique du Québec shows that 34% of Quebecers aged 15 and older say they’ve seen or heard cannabis advertising or commercial promotions in the past 12 months.

Exposure is higher among 15‑ to 17‑year‑olds and 18‑ to 20‑year‑olds. Social media is the most frequently mentioned context.

The takeaway is clear: despite strict regulations, cannabis promotion is reaching more Quebecers than the law intended.

Spotlight

The Cree “first steps” ceremony on Parliament Hill is a reminder that even amid heavy news, there is still room for moments of transmission, belonging, and community. These gestures don’t solve everything, but they bring a bit of humanity back to the centre.

Before You Go

Thanks for spending a few minutes with us this morning. We wish you a grounded day, a still‑warm coffee if possible, and just enough calm to get through the rest without rushing. ☕

Laval QC ☕ The morning chat

Good morning,

Today brings a mix of very practical updates for your daily life, a bit of politics, a bit of sports, and a few stories that reach beyond Laval without straying far from your concerns. If you only have a minute, the essentials are at the top. If you have a little more time, we’ll walk through the stories that really matter today.

The Essentials

• Ottawa suspends the federal excise tax on gasoline and diesel: The measure is expected to reduce the price by 10 cents per litre for regular gas and 4 cents per litre for diesel.
• The Canadiens will face the Lightning in the first round: The Montréal–Tampa Bay matchup is confirmed, though home‑ice advantage is still undecided.
• Terrebonne stays Liberal: Tatiana Auguste won the riding with 48.4% of the vote, defeating Nathalie Sinclair‑Desgagnés by 731 ballots.
• Carney government secures a majority: The Liberals won all three by‑elections held in Ontario and Québec, bringing their total to 174 seats.
• Road closures coming to the Montréal region: The Louis‑Hippolyte‑La Fontaine Tunnel, Highway 25, Highway 132, and part of Highway 520 will be affected later this week.
• A salmonella outbreak linked to pistachios remains active: There are now 189 cases in Canada, including 26 hospitalizations and 88 cases in Québec.

Across Québec and nearby

• Desjardins’ joint credit card reform is postponed: A plan to create two categories of cardholders, primary and additional, has been delayed following criticism.
• Falsified maple syrup: Adonis now affected: Adonis stores are recalling L’Érabeille maple syrup containing syrup supplied by Steve Bourdeau.
• A second measles case detected in Québec City: The infected person visited a Costco in Sainte‑Foy and the Hôpital de l’Enfant‑Jésus.

To keep an eye on

• Christine Fréchette will be sworn in on Wednesday: Her cabinet is expected to be formed next week.
• Québec borrowed more than $768M from investor immigrants it has kept waiting: Some applicants have reportedly been waiting up to ten years for permanent residency.
• Asylum seekers may face a legal gap: Around 30,000 people will receive letters requesting additional evidence.
• Ottawa adds $1 million to support French‑language research in Canada: Funding for 2025–2026 will be shared among three federal agencies to support research in French, francophone scientific training, and the dissemination of knowledge on francophone communities.
• Vélo Québec launches a new platform for planning routes across the province: The “Québec à vélo” tool brings together maps, itineraries, and practical services.

Top Story

Ottawa suspends the federal tax on gasoline and diesel, with an immediate impact at the pump

This is the most immediately tangible news for many households: Ottawa is suspending the federal excise tax on gasoline and diesel.

The move is expected to reduce the price by 10 cents per litre for regular gas and 4 cents per litre for diesel.

No need for complicated math to understand why this gets attention. When a cost comes back every week, even a modest drop eventually makes itself felt.

In depth

Ottawa invests $1 million in French‑language research and francophone scientific training

The federal government is announcing $1 million in funding for 2025–2026 to support French‑language research in Canada. The investment is part of the 2023–2028 Action Plan for Official Languages and aims to strengthen both the creation and dissemination of scientific knowledge in French.

The planned allocation is $400,000 for the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council, $350,000 for the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council, and $250,000 for the Canadian Institutes of Health Research.

The goal is twofold: support research conducted in French and help train a new generation of francophone scientists. The funding will also support work on francophone communities and the issues affecting them.

Projects tied to this initiative include research at several Canadian universities, notably in Québec and Montréal, in fields such as health, artificial intelligence, advanced materials, education, language policy, and francophone immigration.

For readers in Laval, this announcement touches something very concrete: the place of French in knowledge production. When research is conducted, shared, and taught in French, it strengthens access to education, training, and scientific life in French.

Terrebonne confirms its Liberal shift and helps Carney secure a majority

Tatiana Auguste won Terrebonne with 48.4% of the vote, defeating Nathalie Sinclair‑Desgagnés by 731 ballots.

The result comes as part of a strong night for the Liberals, who also won University–Rosedale and Scarborough Southwest. With these three gains, Mark Carney’s government reaches 174 seats and secures a majority.

For the North Shore, Terrebonne remains a political reference point this morning and not just a footnote.

Canadiens to face Tampa Bay, but home‑ice advantage still undecided

The first‑round matchup between the Montréal Canadiens and the Tampa Bay Lightning is now confirmed.

Both teams have 106 points, but home‑ice advantage remains undecided. Each has one regular‑season game left.

For fans, the storyline is simple: the next chapter is set. We just don’t know where it begins.

Several road closures will affect travel in the region later this week

The Ministry of Transport is announcing several closures in the Montréal area later this week.

Here’s what to expect:

• Thursday night: Highway 132 eastbound fully closed between boulevard Roland‑Therrien and Highway 20
• Friday night into Saturday: Full closures in both directions for the Louis‑Hippolyte‑La Fontaine Tunnel and Highway 25
• Additional impacts: Restrictions on Highway 520 near Highway 13

These may not be everyday routes for everyone in Laval, but they’re key corridors if you need to cross the region without guessing your way through traffic.

Coup de cœur

There’s something encouraging about an announcement that reminds us French isn’t just a heritage to preserve, it’s also a language for producing knowledge, training researchers, and advancing ideas. In a morning brief like ours, that kind of commitment to French‑language research deserves a small salute.

Before we go

Wishing you a clear‑headed start to the day, even if the rest of it promises a bit of movement.

See you tomorrow with the essentials for Laval and the North Shore… without unnecessary detours. ☕

Laval QC ☕ The morning chat

Good morning,

Today we’re following stories that are truly moving forward. FC Supra goes from unveiling its roster to stepping onto the field, Terrebonne votes today, and several more concrete issues touch daily life, from transportation to telecom contracts.

In Brief

• FC Supra begins its first season After unveiling its inaugural roster earlier this month, the Laval‑linked club officially starts its journey with a team rooted in Quebec.
• Voters head to the polls in Terrebonne This federal by‑election is drawing close attention, especially since it could help the Liberals reach a technical majority.
• REM outage leads to tunnel evacuation A service interruption overnight on April 11 forced passengers to be evacuated between McGill and Édouard‑Montpetit.
• Quebec prepares for Christine Fréchette’s swearing‑in The MNA for Sanguinet is set to be sworn in on Wednesday and form her Cabinet next week.
• CRTC aims to better protect customers at the end of discounts and contracts Providers will now be required to notify customers before a contract, discount, or promotion expires.

Local Stories

• Éducart challenges terrace refusal in Laval The association is contesting the City’s decision regarding a terrace at its Grande Rue location.
• A new breakfast spot coming to Laval Yolks Breakfast has signed its second franchise agreement in Quebec, with a restaurant planned for Laval.
• Windy, rainy week ahead in the Montréal region Gusts up to 70 km/h are expected Monday, with rain beginning Tuesday.
• Saint‑Laurent CEGEP francization program to close The CSN says about 15 positions will be lost.

Society & Politics

• Book industry worried about school budgets A budget reform is raising fears of an even steeper drop in book purchases in schools.
• Lebanon says it is working toward a full Israeli withdrawal The Lebanese government says it is seeking to end the war and obtain a complete withdrawal from the territory.

Top Story

FC Supra du Québec moves from planning to action in its first season

FC Supra du Québec officially begins its first season in the Canadian professional soccer league. After presenting its roster earlier this month, the Laval‑associated club now steps onto the field with a group made up entirely of players connected to Quebec.

The organization describes this approach as the core of its project. The goal is to give local talent a clearer showcase and create a more direct path to professional soccer without forcing players to leave the province to advance.

The club also wants to address a long‑standing issue in the sport. For years, many promising Quebec players have been under‑scouted or insufficiently supported in their development. FC Supra hopes to position itself as part of the solution.

It’s an ambitious bet, since it deliberately limits the recruitment pool. But the organization sees strength in that constraint. The club is banking on a strong shared identity, a clear Quebec anchor, and a project that resonates with the community.

In Depth

A closely watched federal by‑election in Terrebonne today

Voters head to the polls Monday in three federal by‑elections, including Terrebonne.

The vote is drawing particular attention because it follows the annulment of the previous result due to an Elections Canada error. A Liberal win could also give the party a technical majority in the House of Commons.

Even when it happens just next door, a vote like this often echoes far beyond the riding.

REM outage led to a late‑night tunnel evacuation

A power failure on the REM network interrupted service overnight on April 11 between Brossard and Édouard‑Montpetit.

Passengers had to be evacuated between McGill and Édouard‑Montpetit stations and escorted on foot through the tunnel to Édouard‑Montpetit. No injuries were reported.

The story doesn’t end there. Procedures surrounding the incident will now be reviewed with the relevant partners.

Budget reform in education worries the book sector

The book industry fears that changes to school service centre budget rules will further weaken book purchases in schools.

The biggest concern is the merging of several funding envelopes into a broader category. Until now, one protected envelope was dedicated to book purchases. That protection may disappear just as the sector is already facing a sharp decline.

The cited figures show an 11.9% drop in library and school book purchases in 2025, representing roughly 250,000 fewer youth books. The sector is calling for the book budget to remain intact.

CRTC will require providers to better notify customers before discounts or contracts end

The CRTC now requires telecom companies to notify customers before a contract, discount, or promotion expires.

Notifications must also include other available plans and how to access them. The measure also applies to international roaming when data usage reaches $50.

For consumers, it’s the kind of quiet change that can prevent a few unpleasant surprises. Sometimes, that’s already a lot.

Coup de cœur

FC Supra isn’t just promising a new team. The project is also trying to keep here the kinds of careers that too often slip away. For Laval, it’s the kind of initiative that makes you want to follow what comes next.

Before we go

Thanks for spending part of your morning with us.

Wishing you a grounded, well‑informed day, ideally with a coffee that does its job on the first try.

Laval QC ☕ The morning chat

Good morning,

This morning, we set aside yesterday’s repeats to make room for what’s new. On the menu: a digital file getting more complicated in Quebec City, a tribute on the North Shore, a political departure in Saint‑Jérôme, and a debate gaining momentum over youth access to social media and conversational AI tools.

The Essentials

• Digital Health Record faces clearer pushback: With May 9 approaching, one minister is questioning the deadline while Santé Québec is already warning that technical issues are expected at launch.
• Liberals support age restrictions for social media and conversational agents: Party members adopted non‑binding resolutions targeting those under 16.
• Judge slows the next steps in Alberta’s potential exit petition: Signature collection can continue, but results cannot be released for now.

Local Stories

• Rodger Brulotte receives a final tribute in Sainte‑Thérèse: His private funeral was held Saturday morning and streamed online.
• Youri Chassin will not run again in Saint‑Jérôme: The independent MNA, who left the CAQ in 2024, will not seek another mandate.

Top Story

The Digital Health Record is no longer just facing technical concerns, it’s under political pressure

The Digital Health Record was already expected to come with its share of adjustments. Now it’s moving forward under more visible political strain.

Minister Gilles Bélanger is questioning the planned May 9 launch, while opposition parties are also calling for the deployment to be cancelled. Santé Québec, for its part, is sticking to the plan but says the public should expect technical issues in the first few weeks.

The system will first roll out in northern Montréal and in Mauricie–Centre‑du‑Québec. The project had already been paused after roughly $100 million in cost overruns.

In other words, we’re no longer just talking about minor bugs. Confidence in the launch itself is becoming an issue.

In Detail

Rodger Brulotte receives a final tribute in Sainte‑Thérèse

Family and friends gathered Saturday morning at Sainte‑Thérèse‑d’Avila Church for the funeral of the sports commentator, who passed away on March 20. The ceremony was private but streamed live online.

The public had already been able to pay their respects Thursday during a lying‑in‑state at IGA Stadium, which drew thousands.

Throughout the ceremony, loved ones and public figures emphasized Brulotte’s warmth, kindness and joy of living. One idea kept coming back: for many, he wasn’t just a familiar voice — he was a familiar presence tied to countless shared memories.

Youri Chassin will not seek another mandate in Saint‑Jérôme

Independent MNA Youri Chassin announced Friday evening on social media that he will not run again in the upcoming provincial election. He said he is leaving politics with a few scars, but also with hope for what comes next.

First elected under the CAQ banner in 2018, he left the party in September 2024 after criticizing the government’s financial management. In his message, he said he hopes people remember more from his second term than just his break with the CAQ.

Liberals open the door to tighter rules for social media and conversational AI for those under 16

Liberal members gathered at convention adopted non‑binding resolutions on youth access to social media and AI conversational agents.

One proposes a minimum age of 16 to create a social media account. Another aims to prohibit access to conversational agents for those under 16.

The debate is far from settled. A McGill expert welcomes the fact that the issue is finally being addressed but warns that a permanent ban would not be the right answer. Mark Carney also says the topic deserves an open and thoughtful debate.

Judge suspends part of the process surrounding Alberta’s potential exit petition

An Alberta judge has granted a suspension preventing, for now, the release of petition results or any further steps in the process. Organizers may continue collecting signatures.

Several First Nations are challenging the constitutionality of the process, arguing that their treaty rights are at stake. A final decision will follow a full review of the case.

Coup de Cœur

The tribute to Rodger Brulotte has that special quality that goes beyond the news itself. When a voice remains strong enough to bring people together even after the microphone is gone, it’s often a sign that it truly found a place in people’s lives.

Before We Go

Thank you for starting your morning with us.

We’re leaving you with a slightly lighter edition in volume, but cleaner in substance. Sometimes, clearing out the duplicates feels as good as a well‑timed closet purge. ☕

Laval QC ☕ The morning chat

Good morning,

Today we’re talking about rising homelessness in Laval, a digital health system that’s still hitting a few bumps, a nationwide product recall, and several issues that touch daily life… from work, to roads, to the weather.

Another full morning, in the useful sense.

The Essentials

• Homelessness is surging in Montreal’s suburbs: In Laval, the number of people living on the street has jumped nearly 60% in three years.
• Canada’s unemployment rate held at 6.7% in March: The economy added 14,000 jobs after two tougher months.
• Bissell recalls nearly 100,000 steam‑cleaner accessories in Canada: Some parts can detach during use and cause burns.
• Technical issues expected as Quebec launches its Digital Health Record: Santé Québec says the first weeks will require adjustments.
• Worker killed after being crushed by a truck in Montreal: The accident happened Friday morning in Saint‑Michel.

To Watch

• Quebec says it has regained control of francisation: The waitlist has dropped from about 33,000 to 6,000 people in one year.
• Guilbault wants to abolish the “double welcome tax” for inherited homes: Bill 22 could be expanded to certain succession cases.
• Thousands of students lose their teachers every year in Quebec: On average, 10,000 teachers take disability leave annually since the pandemic.
• Reminder : Work resumes on the Côte‑Saint‑Luc viaduct on April 13: Partial closures are expected until the end of 2026.

Across Canada

• 2026 wildfire season expected to be difficult: A hot, dry summer could make conditions worse.
• Jeremy Hansen set to return to Earth after Artemis II: The Canadian astronaut and his crew are expected to splash down in the Pacific on Friday evening.
• Environment Canada preparing a new AI‑enhanced weather model: The goal is to improve forecast accuracy and speed.

From Our Neighbours

• Suspicious vehicle fire in Verdun: Two cars were damaged and residents were temporarily evacuated.
• Rain moving into the weekend in Montreal: Friday will be rainy, Saturday more mixed, and rain may return Sunday evening.

Main Story

In Laval, homelessness has jumped nearly 60% in three years

Among today’s numbers, this one stands out without hesitation: in Laval, the number of people living on the street has risen by nearly 60% in three years.

It’s one of the heaviest figures of the day.

A rise like this is no longer an abstract trend. It speaks to growing social pressure in the region and a reality that is increasingly visible in everyday life.

When a number climbs this fast, it doesn’t just describe a problem — it signals that the issue has changed scale.

In Detail

Digital Health Record arriving, with early hiccups already acknowledged

Santé Québec is maintaining the May 9 launch of the Digital Health Record, while warning that minor technical issues should be expected in the first weeks.

The long‑term goal is to centralize patient clinical data in a single system. The rollout will begin in two regions, including northern Montreal Island.

What stands out is that these early adjustments are being presented as normal. In everyday terms, it means Quebec’s big digital shift will likely begin with a few screws that squeak.

Bissell recall affects nearly 100,000 accessories sold in Canada

A major recall affects several Bissell steam‑cleaner accessories sold in Canada between October 2024 and March 2026.

The issue is straightforward: some parts can detach during use and release hot water or steam. About 95,788 units were sold in Canada.

It’s the kind of recall worth checking at home, especially if you recently bought one of these devices. We like appliances when they clean — much less when they turn into reflex‑testing machines.

Canada’s labour market holds steady, without much momentum

The unemployment rate remained at 6.7% in March, while the economy added 14,000 jobs.

After losses in January and February, the result looks more like a small rebound than a real surge. Not spectacular, but not nothing either.

For households, a number like this doesn’t change a day on its own. But it helps read the broader climate, especially when the cost of living and uncertainty continue to loom large.

Quebec wants to expand the end of the “double welcome tax”

Minister Geneviève Guilbault wants to broaden Bill 22 to eliminate property transfer duties in certain cases involving inherited homes.

The change would apply to some succession situations, such as those involving siblings. The minister frames the measure as a correction to inequities already raised by citizens.

The file is one to watch — and for many families, it’s the kind of change that matters at a difficult moment. Administrative headaches rarely feel gentler during a period of grief.

Coup de Cœur

If there’s one useful thing in a morning brief, it’s putting simple words on realities that otherwise stay blurry. Today’s look at homelessness in Laval does exactly that: it forces us to face a local issue directly.

Before we go

Thanks for starting your morning with us.

Here’s the essential in your pocket, a few things to watch, and just enough context to get through the day without opening twelve tabs. A small modern victory in itself. ☕

Laval QC ☕ Morning Chat

Good morning,

Laval wakes up to major health‑care news today: Quebec is releasing $300 million for phase 2 of the long‑awaited renovations at Maisonneuve–Rosemont Hospital. Meanwhile, the economy is shifting, federal politics are being reshaped ahead of key byelections, and a few local files deserve a closer look before your first coffee.

In Brief

• $300M released for Maisonneuve–Rosemont Quebec unlocks funding for phase 2 of the hospital’s renovation project.
• Gilles Vaillancourt sues Laval for $3M The former mayor is taking the city to court.
• Liberal convention in Montreal without Trudeau First major gathering under Mark Carney, with the party polling at 45%.
• CAE laying off 280 workers in Montreal Nearly two‑thirds of the affected positions are in Quebec, mainly in Montreal.
• Côte Saint‑Luc overpass work resumes April 13 Repairs continue until late 2026, with day and night closures.

To Watch

• Plateau‑Mont‑Royal revises noise bylaw New proposal aims to balance nightlife and residents’ peace; vote expected May 4.
• Iran–U.S. truce extended by two weeks Washington and Tehran agree to a temporary halt in hostilities.
• Oil prices expected to stay high this year Partial closure of the Strait of Hormuz impacts fuel and heating costs.
• More federal accommodation requests being denied Unions say refusals have increased since the return‑to‑office push.

Quebec Politics

• CAQ leadership to be decided by Sunday Christine Fréchette or Bernard Drainville will succeed François Legault.
• François Legault: “I tried to stay” Quebec’s 32nd premier reflects on his years in office in an interview with Patrice Roy.
• Terrebonne: clash of two electoral machines Liberals and the Bloc mobilize heavily ahead of Monday’s byelection.

🔴 Main Story

$300 million released for phase 2 of Maisonneuve–Rosemont

Quebec is releasing $300 million to launch the second phase of renovations at Maisonneuve–Rosemont Hospital. Health Minister Sonia Bélanger confirmed the news after meeting with hospital leadership, saying the funds for preparatory work have been “available for several weeks.”

The CIUSSS de l’Est‑de‑l’Île‑de‑Montréal says discussions were positive. A call for tenders is expected in May, and the plans should be made public before the provincial election this fall.

The HMR Coalition is welcoming the announcement cautiously, citing the project’s many delays. “Until the excavator actually starts digging, we’ll remain doubtful,” said union president Denis Cloutier.

In‑Depth Stories

Liberal convention: first major gathering without Trudeau

The Liberals are meeting in Montreal for their first major convention without Justin Trudeau in more than a decade. The event comes as the party, now led by Mark Carney, welcomes a wave of floor‑crossers and sits just two seats away from a majority, according to media reports.

Running from Thursday to Saturday, the convention lands just days before three byelections on Monday — and one day after a fifth opposition MP crossed the floor to join the Liberal caucus. Polling aggregator 338 Canada places the party at roughly 45% support nationwide.

Carney will address members Saturday afternoon, his first speech to a convention since winning the leadership. The last political convention dates back to 2023, when Trudeau responded to opposition criticism. Since then, the Liberals won the 2025 election and several Conservative MPs have defected.

Jean‑François Roberge under ethics investigation

Quebec Immigration Minister Jean‑François Roberge is under investigation by the Ethics Commissioner for sharing internal analyses of the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) with CAQ leadership candidates Bernard Drainville and Christine Fréchette.

Both candidates propose reinstating the PEQ with “grandfather clauses.” Media reports say Roberge evaluated their scenarios: Drainville cited an impact of 18,000 new permanent residents, while Fréchette’s scenario was assessed at between 123,800 and 126,800.

Commissioner Ariane Mignolet will determine whether Roberge violated Article 17 of the Code of Ethics, which prohibits using or disclosing non‑public information for personal benefit or to favour others. The request for an investigation came from Liberal leader Marc Tanguay and Québec solidaire MNA Étienne Grandmont.

Environment Canada launches hybrid AI‑powered forecasting model

Environment and Climate Change Canada will roll out a new forecasting model this spring that combines artificial intelligence with traditional meteorology. The agency says the hybrid system will improve the accuracy of alerts, especially for winter storms and heat waves, with major systems predicted more than 24 hours earlier than today.

The model was tested alongside the current system and will also refine the timing of weather events and storm‑tracking accuracy. Six‑day forecasts will now be as reliable as current five‑day forecasts.

ECCC says meteorologists will remain essential for interpreting results and communicating risks to the public.

💫 Coup de Cœur

Some of us still miss baseball… and miss even more the unmistakable voice of Rodger Brulotte.

The final tribute held at Stade IGA was a reminder of how certain voices become landmarks in our lives. For decades, he accompanied the summer evenings of thousands of Quebecers. Seeing him honoured one last time in a stadium shows the quiet but lasting mark a true enthusiast can leave behind.

Before We Go

Quebec is finally unlocking funds for major hospital projects, Ottawa heads into a decisive political weekend, and Canada’s weather forecasting is about to get a technological upgrade.

Have a great day, and see you tomorrow ☕

Laval QC ☕ The Morning Chat

Good morning,

Today starts with a Laval that’s growing fast, very fast, while Montréal deals with closed metro entrances, aging equipment, and a strike on the horizon. There’s also a bit of politics, a bit of public transit, a quick detour through space, and a Montréal initiative that genuinely deserves a nod.

Top Stories

• Laval climbs into the top three North American cities for active cranes: The city now ranks just behind Toronto and Los Angeles, driven by a major residential surge.
• Montréal blue‑collar strike from April 15 to 18: Essential services have been deemed sufficient to avoid risks to public health or safety.
• Three metro entrances closed in Montréal: The STM cites safety concerns linked to disorder, cleanliness issues, and drug use.
• Montréal’s pothole‑repair equipment is in rough shape: More than half of the machinery is at the end of its useful life.
• Jean‑François Roberge under ethics investigation: The inquiry focuses on sharing ministerial analyses with CAQ leadership candidates.
• REM airport branch progressing on schedule: Service toward Trudeau Airport is still planned for 2027.
• Mark Carney set to speak with Jeremy Hansen: The Canadian astronaut is back from the historic Artemis II lunar mission.
• Ontario MP crosses the floor to join the Liberals: The government is now just one seat short of a majority.
• Survey shows disconnect in AI‑powered customer service: Consumers still want humans for complex issues.
• A deep‑dive article questions the science of aging: Metformin exposes major blind spots in current research.

Local

• Laval’s construction boom pushes the city into North America’s top three for cranes: The transformation of Laval’s landscape is accelerating around its emerging downtown core.
• The REM inches closer to Montréal‑Trudeau Airport: For Laval and the North Shore, this project directly affects travel to Montréal and the airport.

Society & Politics

• Minister Jean‑François Roberge under investigation by the Ethics Commissioner: The issue concerns the disclosure of internal ministry analyses.
• Ontario MP crosses the floor, leaving the federal Liberals one seat short of a majority: A move that shifts the balance in Ottawa.
• Customers and executives disagree on AI‑powered customer service: The message is simple: people like speed, but not at the expense of empathy.

Main Story

Laval climbs into the top three North American cities for active cranes

Laval is changing at high speed. The city now ranks third in North America for active cranes, behind Toronto and Los Angeles.

The surge is driven by a major wave of residential development, concentrated in the area slated to become Laval’s future downtown. Last summer, as many as 33 cranes were active. The number had dropped to 24 at the time of writing, with the potential to rise again.

Last year, more than 4,600 housing units were launched in Laval. Nearly 90% of them were rental units. The long‑term goal is ambitious: roughly 54,000 new homes over the next decade.

In Depth

Montréal blue‑collar strike moving ahead, essential services approved

The Administrative Labour Tribunal has approved the list of essential services for Montréal’s blue‑collar strike, scheduled from April 15 at 6 a.m. to April 18 at 6 a.m.

Some waste collection will continue, while other services will operate with reduced staff. For many Laval residents, disruptions like this often spill over into daily travel and shared services.

STM closes three metro entrances indefinitely

The STM has closed three metro entrances in Montréal for safety reasons: the Belmont entrance at Square‑Victoria–OACI, the Maisonneuve entrance at McGill, and the north entrance at De Castelnau.

The agency cites issues with cleanliness, disorder, and drug use. For Laval commuters, this can mean extra detours — sometimes before the first coffee of the day.

REM airport branch still on track for 2027

The REM branch toward Montréal–Trudeau Airport is progressing according to plan, with service still expected to launch in 2027.

Work continues inside the 2.5‑kilometre tunnel leading to the airport, where crews are installing rail systems and platform screen doors.

The project is being carried out by CDPQ Infra in partnership with Aéroports de Montréal, which is responsible for the airport station. For residents of Laval and the North Shore, this is the kind of infrastructure that could eventually make certain trips a lot less acrobatic.

Jean‑François Roberge under investigation by the Ethics Commissioner

An investigation is underway involving Immigration Minister Jean‑François Roberge at the National Assembly.

The issue centres on whether internal analyses from his ministry, specifically related to the Quebec Experience Program, were shared with candidates in the CAQ leadership race. The commissioner will determine whether non‑public information was used or disclosed in a way that could benefit the minister personally or advantage someone else.

It’s a political file, yes, but also a clear reminder that the management of government information is never just an administrative detail.

Metformin and aging: what science still overlooks

A long‑form article explores why metformin, a diabetes drug used for more than 60 years, has become the starting point for a much broader debate on aging, inflammation, and the limits of current clinical research. The piece shows how a single medication can reveal the variables human studies often ignore: diet, air quality, stress, microbiome, environment, baseline metabolism.

The article makes a simple but powerful point: the next breakthroughs in longevity may not come from a new drug, but from understanding the real‑world conditions people live in.

Read the full article: https://sportsmagazine.ca/health-fitness/metformin-and-aging-what-science-gets-wrong-about-human-health

Coup de cœur

The virtual‑reality concert project at St. Mary’s Hospital offers something simple and precious: a moment of calm in a care journey. When technology is used to bring comfort and beauty, it’s hard to complain.

To Finish

That’s it for this morning. Between cranes, metros, construction work and even a quick detour to the Moon, the day starts with a full menu. Wishing you a hot coffee, a smooth commute, and as few unnecessary detours as possible. ☕

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. ☕