Tag: Chomedey

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Laval Today. Sep. 26, 2026

Laval QC โ˜• The morning chat

Good morning,

This morning, we dive into the intensifying election race in Laval, with a look at the Chomedey riding and the issues that matter to residents. We also look at a new directive from ร‰lections Quรฉbec that could complicate voting for some anglophones, and we suggest a few free activities to enjoy the fall.

What to know on this day

  • A 16-year-old girl has been missing for two weeks in Laval: The family of Eva Haji is asking the public for help finding her, a disappearance that has sparked deep concern in the community.
  • A 19-year-old man arrested for using counterfeit bills in a Marketplace purchase: Laval police are investigating and want to know if others fell victim to the scheme.
  • FC Laval reaches the Coupe du Quรฉbec final after a wild match: The Laval side finally got past CS LaSalle on penalties, after an overtime period had to be replayed.

Close to home

  • Chomedey, an election race marked by controversy: Incumbent MNA Sona Lakhoyan Olivier, expelled from the Liberal Party, is seeking another term as an independent, while residents voice concerns about housing, roads, and services.
  • Seniors’ Week returns to Laval from October 1 to 7: About forty free or affordable activities are on offer, including a volunteer fair and a performance by Marc Hervieux.
  • Free activities this fall with the Sociรฉtรฉ nationale du Quรฉbec ร  Laval: Panels, workshops, and intercultural tours are on the program, including a dinner to mark the organization’s 10th anniversary.

Across Canada

  • Marineland belugas that died in Chicago suffered from chronic illnesses: The Shedd Aquarium revealed that the two whales had pre-existing gastrointestinal inflammation, but it does not confirm that as the cause of death.
  • Federal MPs divided over AI use in the House of Commons: A report suggests that up to 20% of speeches could be generated by artificial intelligence, sparking debate about the authenticity of interventions.

Main story

Chomedey, a Laval riding at the heart of controversy, as residents demand services

The Chomedey riding, one of the most diverse in Laval, is the scene of an unusual election race. Incumbent MNA Sona Lakhoyan Olivier, expelled from the Quebec Liberal Party last year, is running as an independent. She faces her former party, as well as candidates from Quรฉbec solidaire and the Parti Quรฉbรฉcois.

Lakhoyan Olivier has been at the centre of several controversies, including allegations of text messages linked to the Liberal leadership race, and an $8,000 fine for breaching the code of ethics. Despite it all, she says residents still trust her.

Residents, for their part, focus on concrete issues. Issa Salim laments the lack of homeless shelters in Laval, while Frederick Hazari criticizes the state of the roads and the economic situation. Ali Khalil calls for more services, especially for seniors.

The candidates promise to meet these expectations: affordable housing for the solidarity candidate, access to health care for the PQ candidate, and support for seniors for the independent MNA.

In detail

ร‰lections Quรฉbec: an English-language directive could hinder voting for some anglophones

A new directive from ร‰lections Quรฉbec requires polling station staff to check whether a voter is entitled to receive services in English before speaking to them in that language. Only those eligible for English education or members of an Indigenous community can be served in English.

This measure has sparked strong reaction. Geoffrey Chambers, a complainant in a legal challenge, has sent a formal notice to ร‰lections Quรฉbec, the Attorney General, and the Premier, arguing the directive is unconstitutional. Anglophone groups fear it may discourage some voters from casting a ballot.

ร‰lections Quรฉbec defends itself by saying it must respect the Charter of the French Language while remaining neutral. The debate is now in the hands of the courts, as advance voting begins Sunday.

FC Laval reaches the Coupe du Quรฉbec final after a wild scenario

FC Laval secured its spot in the Coupe du Quรฉbec final, but not without difficulty. In the semi-final against CS LaSalle, the match had to be stopped in overtime due to lack of light, after skirmishes led to two red cards.

According to the rules, the match was replayed behind closed doors a week later, with the score at 1-1. The Laval side dominated but had to settle for penalties, which they won 5-3.

In the final, they will face Revolution FC, a Laurentians club that eliminated AS Laval in the semi-final. FC Laval is aiming for a historic double: the Ligue1 QC championship and the Coupe du Quรฉbec.

Coup de Cล“ur

Seniors’ Week in Laval illustrates a great community dynamic. With nearly 2,000 participants last year and a program that keeps growing, it’s an event that proves active aging is not just a slogan. The volunteer fair, a new initiative, could well become a bridge between generations.

Before we go

We wish you a pleasant weekend, whether you take part in the activities or simply take time to breathe. In Laval, fall promises to be rich in opportunities to come together. Happy reading and see you soon! โ˜•

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Laval Today. Sep. 23, 2026

Laval QC โ˜• The morning chat

Good morning,

This morning, we look back at a troubling evening in Chomedey, a Laval initiative giving a voice to people with disabilities in the middle of the election campaign, and a Montreal festival opening today. A good way to start the day with an accurate picture of what’s moving around us.

What to remember this morning

  • Attempted murder near the Carrefour Multisports in Laval: A young man in his twenties was hit by more than one projectile, Monday evening around 10:20 p.m., near the outdoor facilities of the Chomedey sports complex.
  • Provincial police search for murder suspect who may be in Laval: Ayoub Mohamed, 19, is actively wanted in connection with the murder of Jordan Gagnรฉ on September 4 in Salaberry-de-Valleyfield.
  • C.I.EAU launches Audieau, an audio trail in Sainte-Rose: The public can access it for free from September 25 to 27, as part of Culture Days.
  • Radio-Canada leaders’ debate tonight: From 8 p.m. to 10 p.m., on all Radio-Canada platforms.
  • Montreal International Black Film Festival is back: The 22nd edition runs from September 23 to 27 with 70 films from 21 countries.

At home

  • Charles Milliard’s Liberals hold assembly in Laval: Several hundred supporters gathered at the Sheraton Laval on September 21, as the campaign enters its final two weeks.
  • Culture Days: dozens of free activities in Laval: The 30th Culture Days will take place on September 25, 26, and 27, including the Signรฉ Laval cultural market.
  • Boil-water advisory or water interruption in five Laval neighbourhoods: Addresses in Pont-Viau, Laval-des-Rapides, Chomedey, Duvernay, and Saint-Vincent-de-Paul are affected.

In Canada

  • Federal health minister rules out easing nicotine pouch rules: Marjorie Michel says it’s “not an option” she’s considering, despite industry pressure and Conservative promises.
  • RCMP tells families there are no more leads in Air India Flight 182 bombing: The investigation moves to “inactive status,” a shock to victims’ relatives.
  • Carney promises $100 million in additional aid for Palestinians: The announcement was made on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly.

Main story

Young man shot near Carrefour Multisports in Chomedey

Several people called 911 on Monday evening around 10:20 p.m. to report gunshots heard near the Carrefour Multisports, located in an enclave bounded to the south by Boulevard Saint-Elzรฉar, to the west by Boulevard Daniel-Johnson, and to the east by Highway 15.

When they arrived, Laval police (SPL) patrol officers found a young man in his twenties, hit by more than one projectile. Known to police, the victim was taken to hospital with injuries that are not life-threatening.

“We’re at the very beginning of the investigation, so no arrests have been made yet,” said SPL spokesperson Officer Nicolas Mongeau. A large perimeter was set up around the scene.

Investigators from the major crimes unit and SPL crime scene technicians were called in to determine the causes and circumstances of the event.

Anyone who witnessed the incident can contact Laval police confidentially via their info line at 450 662-INFO (4636).

In detail

ROPPHL raises candidates’ awareness of the reality of people with disabilities in Laval

The Regroupement des organismes de promotion de personnes handicapรฉes de Laval (ROPPHL) held its 2nd ร‰lectorallye on September 17, aimed at those running in the October 5 provincial election.

Eight candidates from Quรฉbec solidaire, the Parti quรฉbรฉcois, the Quebec Liberal Party, and the Coalition avenir Quรฉbec agreed to tour the booths of organizations serving Laval residents with disabilities.

“There are nearly 70,000 people with disabilities aged 15 and over in Laval, not counting their loved ones, and we hear very little about them during elections,” said Kim Joly, executive director of ROPPHL.

Through games and simulations, the ร‰lectorallye aimed to give candidates a taste of the daily realities faced by disabled people in Laval.

Adapted transport was a key topic. “There are 1.8 million fewer trips planned next year in the metropolitan region, which will likely lead to prioritization,” said Annie Desrosiers, director of the Association lavalloise pour le transport adaptรฉ (ALTA).

Montreal International Black Film Festival celebrates 22nd edition

The Montreal International Black Film Festival (MIBFF) is back from September 23 to 27, with a lineup of 70 films from 21 countries. It is the largest bilingual Black film festival in Canada.

Wednesday’s opening night features the Quebec premiere of The Eyes of Ghana, from Oscar winner Ben Proudfoot, with Michelle and Barack Obama as executive producers.

The festival also highlights local talent, with special screenings at the Cinรฉma du Musรฉe and Concordia University, including Coeur de motard by Will Prosper, which tells the story of a local motorcycle gang that helps youth overcome adversity.

Several free screenings are offered across Montreal for a seventh consecutive year.

Radio-Canada leaders’ debate, final face-off before the vote

The leaders’ debate takes place tonight from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. on all Radio-Canada platforms. It’s the last debate of the campaign, less than two weeks before the October 5 vote.

Leaders must both convince and please, as recent polls show the Parti quรฉbรฉcois leading in voting intentions, with the Conservatives gaining ground as a second choice.

Coup de Cล“ur

The ROPPHL’s ร‰lectorallye is a great example of what local politics can do best: moving beyond grand speeches to put candidates in the shoes of those they want to represent. A lesson in closeness worth highlighting, at a time when promises are flying.

To wrap up

We wish you a day that starts well, despite the construction and water advisories that sometimes complicate daily life. And if you have a moment tonight, the leaders’ debate promises to be a good opportunity to better understand the choices before us. โ˜•

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Laval Today. Sep. 21, 2026

Laval QC โ˜• The Morning Chat

Good morning,

Today we’re talking construction, housing, and safety in Laval, with a look at the world cycling championships taking place in Montreal. We’re also checking in on the election polls that could redraw Quebec’s political map. In short, plenty to start the week on a good note.

What to Know This Morning

  • Laval tops $1 billion in construction permit value: As of August 31, the city’s urban planning department had issued some 2,500 permits and authorization certificates, with a declared value totalling more than one billion dollars.
  • Fire in eastern Laval leaves resident homeless: The blaze, accidental in origin, caused $130,000 in damage to a home on Rue Mirelle in Saint-Franรงois.
  • PQ leads in Montreal suburbs, according to poll: Charles Milliard’s Liberals lead on the Island of Montreal, while the CAQ sits third in the Outaouais.

Close to Home

  • $20M project in L’Abord-ร -Plouffe: Groupe Damco will build a 79-unit residential building at the northeast corner of Boulevard Perron and Boulevard Curรฉ-Labelle. Occupancy is planned for fall 2027.
  • Over 2,200 housing units under construction in Laval in 2026: Despite a slow August, the CMHC counts 2,227 units started since the beginning of the year, representing 12.5% of all new housing in Greater Montreal.

Across Canada

  • Parliament resumes Monday: The trade war with the United States and closer ties with the European Union will be at the heart of discussions. Prime Minister Mark Carney promises “some of the most important legislation in decades.”
  • Poilievre opposes the idea of an EU “associate state”: The Conservative leader says Canada will never be the EU’s “28th state.”

Main Story

Laval surpasses $1 billion in construction permit value in 2026

As of August 31, Laval’s urban planning department had issued roughly 2,500 permits and authorization certificates. Their declared value totals more than one billion dollarsโ€”a sign of the vitality of the city’s construction sector.

These permits cover residential, commercial, industrial, and institutional projects, whether new builds, expansions, or renovations.

On the housing front, 2,316 new units have been authorized since the start of the year, nearly identical to the same point last year. The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), for its part, counts 2,227 units started as of August 31โ€”a gap explained by the federal agency’s counting method.

In Detail

Fire in eastern Laval causes $130,000 in damage, leaves resident homeless

An accidental fire seriously damaged a single-family home on Rue Mirelle in Saint-Franรงois on the evening of Friday, September 18. Firefighters, arriving quickly on scene, found a smoke alarm present but not functional.

The blaze, brought under control around 10:16 p.m., caused roughly $90,000 in structural damage and $40,000 to contents. Investigators with Laval’s fire safety service (SSIL) are working to determine the fire’s origin, which could be linked to lithium battery chargers or overheating electrical wiring.

The SSIL reminds residents that residential buildings constructed before 1985 must now be equipped with smoke alarms powered by a non-removable 10-year lithium battery.

$20M project in L’Abord-ร -Plouffe

The L’Abord-ร -Plouffe district in Chomedey will welcome a significant residential project. Groupe Damco will build a 79-unit, six-storey building at the northeast corner of Boulevard Perron and Boulevard Curรฉ-Labelle.

The lot, vacant until now and owned by the developer for 12 years, is valued at $680,600 on the property roll. All 75 parking spaces will be underground.

The rental offering will include 41 three-and-a-half units, 29 two-bedroom units, and 9 five-and-a-half units. The leasing office is expected to open next spring, with occupancy in fall 2027.

PQ leads in Montreal suburbs, Liberals dominate on the island

A Radio-Canada poll places the Parti Quรฉbรฉcois ahead in Montreal’s suburbs, while Charles Milliard’s Liberals lead on the Island of Montreal. In the Outaouais, the PQ is gaining ground and the CAQ ranks third.

Provincially, the PQ remains first, with the Conservatives and Liberals racing for third place. These results come as the election campaign heats up, two weeks before the October 5 vote.

Coup de Cล“ur

Our coup de cล“ur of the day: the firefighters of Laval and the volunteers who support residents when life takes an unexpected turn.

The fire in eastern Laval, which caused $130,000 in damage and left a resident homeless, is a reminder of how essential the work of Lavalโ€™s fire service truly is. They arrive within minutes, take real risks, and protect lives in unpredictable conditions.

And once the flames are out, others step in; volunteers, community groups, people who give their time to help those affected regain stability and dignity.

In a city thatโ€™s growing and changing fast, this chain of solidarity, from first responders to the last act of kindness, remains one of Lavalโ€™s strongest foundations.

To Wrap Up

We wish you a productive week, projects that move forward, and a bit of gentleness in the busier moments. In Laval as elsewhere, small gestures often make all the difference. โ˜•

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Laval Today. Sep. 20, 2026

Laval QC โ˜• The morning chat

Good morning,

This morning, we’re rounding up the news that touches Laval and Quebec: a busy night for Laval firefighters, local athletes heading to the World Championships, and a provincial election campaign heating up. Plenty to start the day informed.

What to know this morning

  • Two suspicious fires in Laval in one night: A historic home in Sainte-Rose and a vacant building in Chomedey were ravaged by flames, and investigators with the Service de police de Laval are on the case.
  • Eleven Triathlon Laval athletes heading to Worlds: A record delegation for the club, which will compete at the age-group World Championships in Pontevedra, Spain.
  • Frรฉchette thinks Quebecers are warming to fracking: The CAQ leader cited a “greater openness” to shale gas, reacting to a La Presse poll.

Close to home

  • Fire destroys very old Laval home: A house built around 1865 on chemin de la Petite-Cรดte in Sainte-Rose was completely destroyed by a fire overnight Saturday. Firefighters limited the spread, but the property is a total loss.
  • Suspicious fire in City of Laval building: A blaze hit a vacant building on boulevard Notre-Dame in Chomedey, and suspicious elements were found. The investigation has been handed to the Service de police de Laval.
  • Chaotic back-to-school at รฉcole des Ormeaux: Teachers are denouncing a late decision to dismantle multigrade classes a week before the start of school, causing stress and disorganization.

Main story

Two suspicious fires rock Laval in the same night

Saturday night was a busy one for the Service de sรฉcuritรฉ incendie de Laval, which fought three nearly simultaneous blazes, two of them suspicious.

The first, reported at 1:46 a.m., hit a vacant City of Laval building on boulevard Notre-Dame in Chomedey. When firefighters arrived, smoke was coming from the second floor. Crews launched an interior attack and discovered suspicious elements, leading the Service de police de Laval to open an investigation. Damage is estimated at about $200,000.

The second, reported at 2:15 a.m., ravaged a house built around 1865 on chemin de la Petite-Cรดte in Sainte-Rose. The 26 firefighters deployed managed to limit the spread of flames that were beginning to reach Hydro-Quรฉbec equipment. The property is a total loss, with damage estimated at about $316,000 for the building and $25,000 for its contents.

No hypothesis is being ruled out as to the origin of these fires, which could be accidental or criminal.

In detail

Eleven Triathlon Laval athletes heading to Worlds

A delegation of 11 athletes from Triathlon Laval will compete at the age-group World Championships from September 23 to 27 in Pontevedra, Spain.

According to club president Annie-Claude Bรฉdard, it would be one of the highest totals for a single club in Canada. Qualifiers include Danielle Levert, 66, and Mรฉlodie Dao, 18, showing the wide age range represented.

“We’re developing and we’re seeing a push on the elite athlete side here,” says Bรฉdard, who credits head coach ร‰ric Douville for the success.

The club also organizes the Triathlon de Laval every June at the Centre de la nature.

Frรฉchette thinks Quebecers are warming to fracking

Shale gas became a campaign issue Saturday, as CAQ leader Christine Frรฉchette said Quebecers are more open to fracking, notably because of trade tensions with the United States.

Referring to a La Presse poll, she said: “I think Quebecers have shifted their perspective and I believe there is greater openness to these possibilities.”

The CAQ banned shale gas exploration and production in 2022. Frรฉchette, however, said she is not yet ready to say whether Quebec should move forward, and that it would require “social acceptance.”

Four firefighters injured during exercise in Blainville

Four firefighters with the Blainville fire service were injured Saturday during a training exercise when part of a roof collapsed.

According to the Association des pompiers de Blainville, they were treated and transported to receive the necessary care. None of their injuries are life-threatening.

The CNESST and Blainville police are to investigate the circumstances of the incident.

Coup de Cล“ur

The Triathlon Laval delegation heading to Worlds is a wonderful illustration of what perseverance and community spirit can accomplish. With athletes from 18 to 66, this club proves that sport can bring all generations together and inspire an entire city.

To close

Wishing you a beautiful day, with a little time to take care of yourself and your loved ones. Whether you’re on the road or at home, enjoy every moment. See you tomorrow! โ˜•

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Laval Today. May. 13, 2026

Laval QC โ˜• The morning chat

Good morning,

Laval wakes up today to a major criminal case, movement at Place Bell, and a reminder that travel plans do not always go smoothly. There are also a few political and social decisions worth a look before you head into the rest of your day.

What to know this morning

  • Arrest warrant in the Bobby the Greek case: The Sรปretรฉ du Quรฉbec is searching for a Laval resident in connection with the shooting at a Starbucks in Chomedey.
  • Canadiens lose 3โ€“2: A strange bounce off the glass changed the course of the game.
  • Decisive game at Place Bell: The fifth game between the Montreal Victoire and the Minnesota Frost is set to be played in Laval after a healthโ€‘related postponement.
  • Route 136 closed toward downtown: Montreal will close part of Route 136 eastbound all weekend for work, with heavy congestion expected.
  • New domestic violence bill: Quebec has introduced the Gabie Renaud bill, which would allow the disclosure of certain past domestic violence offences.

Society and politics

  • Bill 101 and adult education: Jeanโ€‘Franรงois Roberge says an expansion would shift 27,000 students from the English network to the French network.
  • Quebec polling: The Liberals and the Parti Quรฉbรฉcois are neck and neck, while the CAQ is climbing.
  • Population decline: Quebec lost nearly 10,000 residents in 2025.

Across Canada and abroad

  • Craig Berube fired in Toronto: The Maple Leafs have dismissed their head coach after finishing near the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings.
  • Brandon Clarke dies at 29: The Canadian NBA player from Vancouver has passed away.
  • WhatsApp adds an incognito AI mode: Meta says it wants to better protect sensitive conversations with its assistant.
  • European Union moves to ban conversion therapy: The European Commission wants member states to prohibit the practice.

Main story

The Sรปretรฉ du Quรฉbec is searching for a Laval man in the Bobby the Greek murder case

The Sรปretรฉ du Quรฉbec has issued an arrest warrant for Denis Beauprรฉ, a 54โ€‘yearโ€‘old Laval resident, in connection with the death of Charalambos Theologou, also known as Bobby the Greek.

He was killed on October 1, 2025, during a shooting at a Starbucks in Chomedey near Highway 440. Two other men with him were also injured.

Police say Beauprรฉ has been missing since October 5. He is also suspected of intentionally firing a gun without regard for the life or safety of others.

A police operation took place on May 6 at a property and residence in Vankleek Hill, Ontario, in connection with his disappearance. For Laval residents, it is a stark reminder that a major organizedโ€‘crime case that shook Chomedey is still unfolding.

In detail

The Victoireโ€™s decisive game will be played at Place Bell after a healthโ€‘related postponement

The fifth game between the Montreal Victoire and the Minnesota Frost is scheduled for Place Bell in Laval after Mondayโ€™s game was postponed.

The postponement was due to concerns for player safety related to an illness. The LPHF says medical evaluation determined the symptoms do not match hantavirus.

According to two people familiar with the situation cited by the Associated Press, the illness appears to be limited to Montreal. This final game will determine which team advances to the Walter Cup final against the Ottawa Charge.

Quebec introduces the Gabie Renaud bill to better inform people facing domestic violence risks

The Quebec government has introduced the Gabie Renaud bill, presented as a measure to better protect women in situations involving domestic violence.

Under the bill, anyone who fears for their safety or that of their child will be able to fill out a form online or at a police station. The Sรปretรฉ du Quรฉbec will review the request and check for past domestic violence offences involving a current or former partner.

Any relevant information would then be shared through an organization that has yet to be designated. The bill also provides for support and referrals to appropriate resources for the person making the request.

Route 136 closure in Montreal expected to complicate weekend travel

Route 136 eastbound will be fully closed from Friday at 11 p.m. to Monday at 5 a.m. between Exit 4 and the entrance from Atateken Street.

The work includes slab repairs, paving, and line painting in the Villeโ€‘Marie and Viger tunnels. Ramps from Robertโ€‘Bourassa Boulevard and Cathedral Street will also be closed.

The ministry expects significant congestion throughout the weekend and encourages anyone heading downtown to use public transit. For Laval residents driving into Montreal, the message is simple: check your route before leaving rather than discovering the closure in real time.

In closing

Thank you for making space for Laval en Bref in your morning.

Wishing you a smooth day, easierโ€‘thanโ€‘expected travel, and hopefully a coffee break without sirens or surprise detours.

โ˜•

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Laval Today. May. 12, 2026

Laval QC โ˜• The morning chat

Good morning,

Today we are keeping a close eye on traffic, with major work announced for Highway 13 in Laval and a significant closure coming on Route 136 in Montrรฉal. There is also sports action at Place Bell, a criminal case resurfacing in Laval, and several Quรฉbecโ€‘wide issues touching everything from digital justice to the audiovisual sector.

Top Stories This Morning

  • Highway 13 construction through September in Laval: Major work and closures are planned on Highway 13 in Laval through September.
  • Arrest warrant in the Chomedey shooting investigation: The Sรปretรฉ du Quรฉbec is searching for a 54โ€‘yearโ€‘old Laval resident in connection with the killing of Charalambos Theologou at a Starbucks in Chomedey.
  • Doโ€‘orโ€‘die game at Place Bell: Montreal Victoire faces the Minnesota Frost in Laval after a postponement linked to illness.
  • Full closure of Route 136 this weekend: Eastbound lanes will be closed from Friday night to Monday morning in the Villeโ€‘Marie and Viger tunnels, with heavy congestion expected.
  • Digital justice overhaul under scrutiny: The 500โ€‘millionโ€‘dollar project is facing delays and may be audited over governance and cost issues.
  • TVA warns the crisis exceeds its capacity: Pierre Karl Pรฉladeau is calling for rapid action and is not ruling out further cuts.

Local

  • REM extends to the West Island: The extension toward Anseโ€‘ร โ€‘lโ€™Orme is set to open Monday with four new stations and free access before launch.
  • 2026 census deadline is today: The final day to submit the form is May 12.
  • Canadiens play Game 4 at the Bell Centre: Montrรฉal will try to take a 3โ€‘1 lead in its series against the Sabres.

Justice and Society

  • Arrest in a longโ€‘unsolved LaSalle murder: A man already detained in Drummondville will be charged with firstโ€‘degree murder in a case dating back to 2007.
  • Dozens of federal prosecutions affected by Project South: The investigation continues to ripple through the justice system.
  • Teaching licences revoked at Bedford Elementary: The decision follows findings of a toxic and regressive work environment.
  • Head of the Public Service Commission resigns: She denounces a culture of secrecy surrounding Bill 7.

Quรฉbec to Watch

  • Audiovisual unions denounce pressure tactics: They say employers are trying to roll back protections in the collective agreement.
  • Digital Health Record slowed but did not crash: Santรฉ Quรฉbec cites faulty equipment and says nearly 20,000 users have already logged in.
  • ร‰ric Girard defends investment in Nemaska Lithium: The minister stands by the decision despite criticism from the sustainable development commissioner.
  • CAAโ€‘Quรฉbec again ranks the Outaouais as having the worst roads: The region tops the 2026 list once more.

Main Story

Highway 13 construction will disrupt travel in Laval through September

Major work begins May 18 on Highway 13 southbound between Dagenais West and Highway 440, with lane shifts and reduced capacity for the entire project. The Ministry of Transport plans partial and full closures, including a longโ€‘term shutdown between Sainteโ€‘Rose and Highway 440, where traffic will be diverted to the twoโ€‘lane service road. During the morning rush, an extra contraflow lane will be added to maintain three lanes heading south.

Drivers should expect night closures in both directions, ramp closures, reduced speed limits and significant congestion. Marked detours will be in place during full closures, and Quรฉbec is urging motorists to allow extra travel time and check Quรฉbec 511 before heading out. The work is scheduled to continue until late September, with the goal of improving safety and road conditions on this heavily used corridor.

In Detail

Arrest warrant issued in the Chomedey fatal shooting

The Sรปretรฉ du Quรฉbec has issued an arrest warrant for Denis Beauprรฉ, a 54โ€‘yearโ€‘old Laval resident, in the investigation into the October 1, 2025 shooting at a Starbucks in Chomedey.

Charalambos Theologou, known as โ€œBobby the Greek,โ€ was killed in the attack and two other men were injured. The SQ says the suspect has been missing since October 5.

A police operation was carried out May 6 in Vankleek Hill, Ontario, in connection with his disappearance. The case remains active with concrete developments in a file that had already marked Laval.

Place Bell hosts a decisive Victoire game after illnessโ€‘related postponement

The decisive game between Montreal Victoire and the Minnesota Frost will be played at Place Bell in Laval after being postponed Monday.

The postponement was made for safety reasons linked to illness. The league says the symptoms observed do not match hantavirus.

The stakes are high: the winner advances to the Walter Cup final against the Ottawa Charge. For Laval, it puts Place Bell at the centre of another major sports moment.

Digital justice project faces delays and possible audit

Quรฉbecโ€™s 500โ€‘millionโ€‘dollar digital justice overhaul is raising concerns due to delays, fragmentation and unclear total costs.

Several components have been pushed to 2029. The Ministry of Cybersecurity and Digital Technology is considering an audit to clarify governance, budgeting and overall coherence.

The scale of the project and the difficulty of tracking dozens of subโ€‘projects stand out. After other major public tech transitions, public patience is wearing thin.

TVA says it can no longer shoulder the crisis alone

Pierre Karl Pรฉladeau says the crisis at TVA now exceeds the companyโ€™s capacity to respond. He points to falling advertising revenues, competition from global platforms and declining cable subscriptions.

He is not ruling out further cuts or cancelled productions. He is calling for less administrative burden, more union flexibility and a rebalancing of advertising rules.

At the same time, unions in the sector say they are facing pressure to reduce negotiated working conditions, including minimum pay and social protections. The picture is one of a sector under intense strain on both the employer and worker sides.

Coup de Coeur

The REM extension toward Anseโ€‘ร โ€‘lโ€™Orme is a reminder that better access to public transit can change habits and bring closer together parts of the region that often feel far apart. When the network grows, it is more than a new line on a map.

Before You Go

Thanks for starting your morning with us.

Give yourself a little extra time on the road, keep an eye on what is moving here and elsewhere, and we will be back tomorrow, one story at a time. โ˜•

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Laval Today. May. 7, 2026

Laval QC โ˜• The morning chat

Good morning,

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

Top Stories

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

Close to Home

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

Society & Politics

  • Milliard stumbles by referring to โ€œtwo official languagesโ€: His comments fuel criticism from the CAQ and PQ over the status of French.
  • Quรฉbec Solidaire to table bill on use of the notwithstanding clause: The debate over this constitutional tool returns to the forefront.
  • Superior Court overturns โ€œflawedโ€ inquiry report on Tamara Thermitus: The ruling finds the report was unreasonable and tainted.
  • โ€œSerious breach of dignityโ€: Innu manโ€™s death recalls Joyce Echaquan case: The Quรฉbec Ombudsperson identifies several failures in the care provided to Philippe Pinette.

Across Canada and Beyond

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

Main Story

Chomedey MNA faces recommended $8,000 fine

The ethics commissioner of the National Assembly is recommending an $8,000 penalty against Chomedey MNA Sona Lakhoyan Olivier for using her constituency office and public resources for partisan purposes. According to the report, her staff and office space served as a โ€œwar roomโ€ supporting Pablo Rodriguezโ€™s 2025 Liberal leadership campaign.

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

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

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

In Depth

Three Canadians isolating after hantavirus outbreak on cruise ship

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

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

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

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

Quรฉbec to add two ridings to its electoral map

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

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

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

Coup de Cล“ur

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

Closing

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

A good morning doesnโ€™t have to be perfect to be solid. Sometimes all it takes is a bit of clarity, an honest coffee, and a few reliable markers to start the day. โ˜•