Laval QC ☕ The morning chat
Good morning,
Today we’re thinking first of Mayor Stéphane Boyer, who underwent delicate surgery to remove a brain tumour. We’re also looking back at Christine Fréchette’s resignation and what the new minority government could mean for immigration in Quebec.
What to remember this morning
- Mayor Stéphane Boyer operated on for a brain tumour: He’s away for at least two months, and Ray Khalil is acting mayor.
- Christine Fréchette resigns and leaves politics: The former CAQ leader hasn’t ruled out a possible return.
- PQ wants to cut permanent immigration to 35,000 a year: Refugee advocates worry immigrants are becoming scapegoats.
- Canadiens lose 6-4 to Hurricanes in home opener: Despite the loss, fans remain confident for the season.
In our backyard
- Ray Khalil to fill in while Stéphane Boyer is away: The executive committee vice-chair takes over as acting mayor for the coming months.
- FC Supra signs 17-year-old defender Eliakim Awonongbadje: He becomes the first player in club history to move from a development contract to a professional one.
Main story
Mayor Stéphane Boyer undergoes surgery for brain tumour, away for at least two months
Laval’s mayor, Stéphane Boyer, had surgery Tuesday to remove a tumour lodged between his brain, his right eye and a major artery. In a video posted to social media, he said the operation wasn’t without risk, mentioning he could lose his sight, become paraplegic or suffer a hemorrhage. He added, though, that his chances of recovery were excellent thanks to advances in medical technology.
Boyer, 38, kept things in perspective with a touch of humour, joking about everyday challenges like tariffs and potholes, before sending a message to those struggling physically or mentally: “Tell yourselves you’re not alone. Today, I’ll be thinking of you.”
While he’s away, executive committee vice-chair Ray Khalil is acting mayor. He’ll also represent Laval on the Communauté métropolitaine de Montréal, the Autorité régionale de transport métropolitain and the Union des municipalités du Québec.
In detail
Christine Fréchette resigns, leaves politics
The day after the CAQ’s crushing defeat—no seats and just 13% of the vote—Christine Fréchette announced her resignation as party leader. “I leave with the feeling I served Quebec as best I could,” she said. She didn’t rule out a return to politics, but said it will be up to the party’s bodies to find a new leader.
PQ wants to cut immigration, advocates worry
The new PQ government plans to cut the number of permanent immigrants admitted to Quebec to 35,000 a year, a drop of about 10,000. Groups like the Conseil Migrant denounce a trend of making immigrants scapegoats, pointing to their crucial role in the economy and for an aging population. To pass, the change will need support from at least one opposition party.
Canadiens fall 6-4 in home opener
The Carolina Hurricanes won 6-4 at the Bell Centre Tuesday night. Taylor Hall scored twice, and Sebastian Aho added a goal and two assists. Despite the loss, several fans stayed optimistic, noting the season is just getting started. Ivan Demidov missed the game with a lower-body injury.
Coup de Cœur
Stéphane Boyer’s story reminds us that even the most active elected officials can face illness. His transparency and humour, even in the toughest moments, offer a lesson in resilience that reaches far beyond city hall.
To close
Wishing you a day marked by solidarity and kindness, with a thought for those going through hard times. And for hockey fans, remember the Canadiens face the Nashville Predators on Thursday. Until then, let’s take care of ourselves and each other. ☕