Category: Daily

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. ☕

Laval QC ☕ The Morning Chat

Good morning,

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

Top Stories This Morning

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

Noteworthy

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

Across Canada

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

Main Story

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

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

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

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

Quebec’s Ministry of Families has not yet commented.

In Depth

FC Supra du Québec unveils its first roster at Carrefour Laval

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

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

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

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

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

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

Coup de Cœur

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

Before You Go

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

Laval QC ☕ The morning chat

Good morning,

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

The Essentials

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

Local Stories

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

Quebec and Canada

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

Around the world

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

Main Story

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

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

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

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

In detail

Advance voting underway in the Terrebonne by‑election

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

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

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

Quebec adopts new, tighter secularism rules

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

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

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

Walmart to close two Montreal stores by the end of June

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Coup de cœur

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

Before we go

Thanks for starting your morning with us.

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

Laval QC ☕ The morning chat

Good morning,

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

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

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

Top Stories This Morning

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

Society & Politics

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

Across Quebec & Canada

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

Montréal & Surrounding Areas

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

International

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

Main Story

Air Canada: Michael Rousseau’s lucrative exit sparks debate

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

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

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

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

In Detail

HelloFresh recall: what consumers should check today

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

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

Welcome Hall Mission: a new kitchen that transforms food assistance

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

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

Coup de cœur

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

In Closing

Thank you for starting your day with us.

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