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Laval Today. jun. 3, 2026

Laval QC ☕ The morning chat

Good morning,

Today, Laval sits at the centre of items touching public safety, justice and everyday life across the region. There are also a few Québec and Montréal stories that spill directly into the lives of its residents. Here is the essential version for a quick read, followed by a more detailed look for those who like to go a bit deeper before the first coffee, or after the second.

What to Know This Morning

  • Laval sees a drop in crime in 2025: The annual police report shows a decline in the total number of cases, firearm‑related incidents, vehicle thefts, property crimes, crimes against persons and road accidents.
  • Laval father sentenced to life in prison: Kamaljit Arora received a life sentence with no chance of parole for 25 years for the premeditated murder of his two children.
  • SPVM asks families to check funeral niches: Jewellery and valuables were recovered in an investigation into thefts targeting funeral centres in Montréal, Laval, the North Shore and Saint‑Hyacinthe.
  • Rosemont–La Petite‑Patrie aims to reduce traffic around schools: The Montréal borough is launching a program that will transform more than a dozen school zones by 2029.
  • MusiquePlus returns on TikTok June 11: The channel, closed in 2019, will relaunch in a new format.

Justice and Society

  • Manslaughter conviction at the Orange Julep: A 25‑year‑old man has been found guilty after unsuccessfully arguing self‑defence.
  • Federal government stands by its legal‑access bill: Ottawa refuses to remove the most controversial part of Bill C‑22.
  • Québec wants to move forward on the constitution: Simon Jolin‑Barrette accuses opposition parties of obstruction with two weeks left in the parliamentary session.

Québec and Beyond

  • Public transit receives new transfers: The PLQ says the funding will help address delays in already‑announced projects.
  • Recycling industry concerned about Québec’s new targets: The sector fears more materials will end up in landfills or be shipped abroad.
  • Canada slips in global university rankings: Thirty‑eight Canadian universities still appear in the 2026 ranking.
  • Paying rent by credit card is growing: Apps offering this option are becoming more common across Canada.
  • Donald Trump says he is open to meeting Ayatollah Khamenei: The possibility is being discussed in the context of a still‑fragile ceasefire.

Top Story

Laval’s 2025 police report shows a drop in crime, with clear warning signs still present

The Laval police service says overall crime decreased in 2025. The total number of cases fell by 11 percent compared with the previous year.

The report also notes a drop in firearm‑related incidents, from 25 to 16. Vehicle thefts fell by 18 percent, property crimes by 8 percent and crimes against persons by 6 percent.

On the road‑safety side, the total number of accidents also decreased by 5 percent for a second consecutive year. On paper, the picture looks calmer, which is not the kind of line that makes headlines, but it is sometimes good news in itself.

The report also highlights several ongoing challenges. Extortion cases targeting businesses are on the rise. Police also note growing pressure linked to mental health and homelessness.

In 2025, officers responded to 3,293 calls involving people in a mental‑health crisis. That represents about 20 percent of all police interventions for the year.

Digging Deeper

Laval father to serve life sentence for the premeditated murder of his two children

Kamaljit Arora has been sentenced to life in prison with no chance of parole for 25 years for the premeditated murders of his two children in October 2022 in Laval.

He was also sentenced to eight years for attempted murder of his eldest daughter and one year for strangling his wife. These sentences will be served concurrently.

Laval families may be affected by funeral‑niche thefts

The SPVM says a man and a woman were arrested on May 14 in an investigation into several break‑ins at funeral centres in Montréal, Laval, the North Shore and Saint‑Hyacinthe.

The suspects allegedly forced open funeral niches and stole jewellery and other valuables placed with the deceased. Many items have been recovered and police are now trying to identify their owners.

For affected families, it is the kind of news no one wants to hear, turning an already delicate process into a very painful ordeal.

Rosemont–La Petite‑Patrie launches plan to calm traffic around more than a dozen schools

The Montréal borough of Rosemont–La Petite‑Patrie is rolling out a program to reduce vehicle traffic around more than a dozen school zones by 2029.

The first phase begins this year with several changes to traffic direction near schools including La Petite‑Patrie, Saint‑Jean‑de‑Brébeuf, Sainte‑Bibiane, Saint‑François‑Solano, Rose‑des‑Vents and Louis‑Hébert.

An online consultation platform has also been launched to let residents identify priority areas. Even though the initiative is happening in Montréal, the logic applies across the metropolitan region, especially in places where traffic around schools can feel like a small daily puzzle.

Montréal universities slip slightly in the 2026 global ranking

The 2026 ranking shows a decline for several Montréal universities. McGill drops one spot to 28th.

The Université de Montréal sits at 126th, down two places. Concordia ranks 639th and UQAM 722nd.

The ranking also shows that 38 Canadian universities appear overall.

Coup de Cœur

The return of MusiquePlus on TikTok is simple but meaningful. Taking a brand deeply rooted in collective memory and giving it a new entry point is a reminder that culture changes shape without disappearing.

Before We Go

Wishing you a smooth end to the day, or a good start if you are reading this early. May your commute be easy, your coffee honest and tomorrow’s news a little lighter. ☕

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Laval Today. May. 26, 2026

Laval QC ☕ The Morning Chat

Good morning,

Today we take a look at what is really moving in Quebec and across Canada: an internal investigation triggered by a leaked email at the highest level of government, a troubling new report on obstetrical violence experienced by First Nations women, and economic signals that deserve your attention. We are also keeping an eye on what affects daily life, here and elsewhere.

Top Stories This Morning

  • Roughly sixty new photo radar units coming to Quebec roads: The number of mobile photo radar devices is expected to quadruple by 2028.
  • Insolvency cases reach their highest level since 2009, says Equifax: The report suggests many consumers may have reached a financial breaking point.
  • Leaked ministerial email: internal investigation launched An exchange between the Minister of Finance and the Premier, revealed by Radio‑Canada, is now the subject of an investigation.

Justice and Society

  • First Nations women still facing obstetrical violence in Quebec: A new report gathers 132 testimonies, including cases of forced sterilization.
  • Verbal and physical violence by a user: Quebec health workers’ union wins case: The Administrative Labour Tribunal concludes that the CIUSSS du Nord‑de‑l’Île‑de‑Montréal failed to meet certain obligations toward home‑care support workers.

Across Canada and Beyond

  • Canada welcomes India’s largest-ever business delegation: About 150 business leaders are visiting to build commercial ties.
  • Gaza flotilla: Minister Anand says Israel violated the Vienna Convention: The case involves twelve Canadians who were aboard boats intercepted by Israel.
  • US strikes on Iran cast a chill over negotiations: The report highlights possible repercussions for the Strait of Hormuz and global supply chains.

Main Story

Leaked email shakes the government and triggers internal investigation

A leaked email at the top of the Quebec government is now the subject of an internal investigation. The message, sent on May 2 by Finance Minister Eric Girard to Premier Christine Fréchette, expressed concern about the number of recent government announcements, which he felt exceeded the 250‑million‑dollar fiscal room planned before the election. Radio‑Canada confirmed the authenticity of the email on Saturday.

Asked about the leak, Premier Fréchette said an investigation is underway to determine its source and that action will be taken. She noted that a similar situation in another ministry had previously led to someone losing their job, without specifying which ministry. Public‑sector unions say they are not aware of such a case.

Since that exchange, both officials say Quebec’s financial situation has changed. The Premier points to higher‑than‑expected revenues, increased federal transfers and rising TVQ revenues linked to inflation. She says the province now has more fiscal room, without specifying how much.

In Depth

Obstetrical violence against First Nations women: new report reveals 97 testimonies

A new report from the First Nations of Quebec and Labrador Health and Social Services Commission and UQAT documents 97 testimonies of obstetrical and gynecological violence experienced by First Nations women between 1956 and 2023, nearly three times more than in the first phase of the research published in 2022. These cases include forced sterilizations, procedures performed without free and informed consent, and situations where women learned years later that they had been sterilized.

The authors say these practices are part of a continuum of colonial violence and leave deep marks on health, family life and dignity. The report also highlights differential treatment between Indigenous and non‑Indigenous women across several regions of Quebec.

Indigenous organizations are calling for concrete action to eliminate discriminatory medical practices based on ethnic origin and to ensure safe and respectful care for future generations.

Insolvency cases reach highest level since 2009, says Equifax

A new report from Equifax Canada shows that insolvency cases have reached their highest level since 2009, rising 18.8 percent in the first quarter. The company says many households appear to have reached a financial tipping point, despite some discipline in reducing spending after the holidays.

Homeowners are particularly affected. Insolvency cases among mortgage holders rose more than 11 percent compared with the previous quarter, and the average non‑mortgage debt in these files now stands at 43,300 dollars, up from 40,200 dollars two years ago. Among homeowners, that figure climbs to 82,400 dollars, a 19 percent increase.

Equifax notes one sign of restraint: non‑mortgage debt declined for the first time in several quarters as consumers cut back after the holiday period. But the firm warns that higher‑rate mortgage renewals will continue to put pressure on households throughout 2026.

Coup de Cœur

There is something reassuring about a city that pays attention both to its local realities and to the broader issues that shape it. Laval often moves forward in small steps, but these gestures, gatherings and conversations gradually build a community that recognizes itself and stands together.

In Closing

We wish you a simple day, with news that falls into place and just enough clarity to keep your direction steady. One file at a time, one coffee at a time, which is often the best way to move through the day. ☕

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Laval Today. May. 25, 2026

Laval QC ☕ The Morning Chat

Good morning,

Today brings a lot of concrete, very concrete news: your wallet, the roads, major events in Montréal and a few signals worth keeping in mind for everyday life on the North Shore. We start with a quick overview, then take a bit more time with what might actually change your week.

What to know this morning

  • Quebec announces three new cost‑of‑living measures: The province will remove the QST from certain products, cut the annual vehicle registration renewal by 50 dollars for one year and provide a one‑time payment of up to 200 dollars for people who receive the solidarity tax credit.
  • Road closures in Montréal near Highways 13 and 520: Lane and ramp closures are planned from May 29 to June 1 in an area directly affecting travel between Montréal and Laval.
  • Montréal’s pedestrian streets return for 2026: Seven streets in six boroughs will go pedestrian‑only, with more than 1,260 businesses within walking distance.
  • The Montreal Heart Institute reports a rise in cardiac emergencies during Canadiens games: More than a 20 percent increase in patient volume during playoff games.
  • The 2026 Dictée lavalloise highlights French in Laval’s public spaces: Municipal representatives were present, reflecting a clear desire to promote French in the city.
  • Ottawa strengthens its wildfire‑fighting air fleet: The federal government has leased about ten additional planes and helicopters.
  • Canada welcomes a major business delegation from India: Around 150 business leaders are visiting the country to build commercial ties.

Justice and society

  • Serge Audette found guilty of manslaughter in the death of Patricia Ferguson, 30 years later: The case dates back to 1996 and involves the disappearance of Patricia Ferguson in Pointe‑aux‑Trembles.
  • Permanent Peoples’ Tribunal holds hearings in Montréal on Indigenous residential schools: The tribunal aims to shed light on testimony and allegations of violence against Indigenous children.
  • Ontario minister Caroline Mulroney announces her resignation: She had served as Minister of Francophone Affairs since 2018.
  • Quebec’s “Votre Santé” IT project draws scrutiny from investigators: A contract was renewed without a call for tenders by an American firm.

Close to home

  • The Victory Parade will take place Saturday in Montréal: The event will be held downtown, though the route has not yet been announced.
  • Just for Laughs unveils its 2026 program in Montréal: The festival runs from July 15 to 26 across 25 downtown venues.
  • The Merhaba Bazaar in the West Island brought together communities from several areas, including Laval: Part of the proceeds will go to a Canadian organization.
  • Montréal firefighters and local businesses show support for the Canadiens ahead of Game 3: Donations, hot dogs and team‑themed shirts are on the menu, with a rare bit of citywide coordination around hockey.

Main story

Quebec introduces three cost‑of‑living measures that affect daily life

The Quebec government is announcing three measures tied to the cost of living, with very concrete effects on everyday expenses.

First, the province will permanently remove the QST from several common consumer products starting July 15. This includes certain snacks, ready‑to‑eat fruits and vegetables, toilet paper and facial tissues.

Next, a 50‑dollar reduction in vehicle registration renewal will apply for one year starting September 1. The reduction will be applied automatically.

Finally, a one‑time payment of up to 200 dollars will be issued automatically on June 4 to people who receive the solidarity tax credit.

In a local bulletin, announcements like this matter because they touch the things that come back every week or nearly so: groceries, the car, the fees that pile up without asking permission.

In detail

Closures near Highways 13 and 520 may complicate some trips between Laval and Montréal

Closures are planned from May 29 to June 1 in the area of the Highway 13 and 520 interchange due to reconstruction work on the Highway 520 overpass above Highway 13.

Several ramp and lane closures are expected, along with periods of congestion. The pedestrian passage under Highway 520 near Highway 13 will also remain closed until it is rebuilt.

A continuous shuttle service will be available for pedestrians. For Laval residents who travel through this area, this is the kind of detail that can save an unnecessary detour or at least help with mental preparation, which, if it doesn’t speed up the trip, sometimes helps preserve patience.

Montreal Heart Institute notes a rise in cardiac emergencies during Canadiens playoff games

The Montreal Heart Institute reports more than a 20 percent increase in patient volume during Canadiens playoff games.

The study cited shows a 40 percent rise in major heart attacks after a win. The cases mainly involve men aged 50 to 55 with certain risk factors.

Symptoms to watch for include chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations and near‑fainting. The message is simple: the emotion of sports can stay a pleasure, but some warning signs should never wait until the end of the period.

Permanent Peoples’ Tribunal in Montréal seeks accountability for alleged crimes against Indigenous children

The Permanent Peoples’ Tribunal on missing children and unmarked graves began its hearings in Montréal on Monday and will continue until Friday.

The prosecution argues that Canada committed crimes against humanity and genocide, largely through the residential school system. Survivors, experts and other witnesses are expected to testify.

A preliminary declaration is planned for Friday and the full judgment is expected on September 30. It is a heavy file, but an important one to follow because it touches directly on memory, responsibility and what the country is willing, or not willing, to face.

Montréal’s pedestrian streets return with seven corridors and more than 1,260 walkable businesses

Seven streets totalling seven kilometres will become pedestrian‑only in six Montréal boroughs. This includes sections of Mont‑Royal, Duluth, Bernard, Wellington and Villeray, as well as Ontario East and Sainte‑Catherine East.

The City says more than 1,260 businesses will be within walking distance thanks to this measure. The pedestrian periods will run from May 15 to October 12, 2026 depending on the sector.

For Laval residents heading into Montréal for an outing, an appointment or a last‑minute dinner, this kind of information quickly changes how you move around and sometimes even where you decide to go.

Spotlight

The Dictée lavalloise is a reminder that a city can come together around words. It may not be the loudest event of the day, but it says something simple and valuable about Laval: here too, community life runs through the language we share.

Before we go

Wishing you a good start to the week, a commute without unnecessary surprises and just enough calm to stay on course. In Laval as elsewhere, the small bits of morning information often make the biggest difference before 9 a.m. ☕

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Laval Today. May. 23, 2026

Laval QC ☕ The Weekend Chat

Hello,

Today we move through traffic, the Grand Prix, political decisions, and a few Canadian stories that reach well beyond Île Jésus. It is the kind of day where you can skim everything in 30 seconds, then dig deeper where it really matters.

The Essentials

  • Downtown Montreal is overflowing with activity thanks to the Grand Prix and the Canadiens: Businesses around Crescent Street say it is one of the busiest weekends of the year, with a sharp jump in foot traffic.
  • A new U.S. policy on permanent resident cards could complicate life for Canadians: The only American consulate in Canada that handles these applications is in Montreal, raising the risk of heavy pressure on the service.
  • A police chase on Highway 15 ended in a crash in Saint‑Lambert: A 22‑year‑old driver was arrested for dangerous driving and fleeing police.
  • Federal Bill C‑22 raises privacy concerns: Several experts warn about its potential impact, even though it is meant to support law enforcement.
  • Canada is taking a firmer stance on West Bank settlements: Ottawa is hardening its position as settlement expansion has accelerated in recent months.

To Watch

  • The Canadian Grand Prix continues in Montreal: George Russell will start from pole on Sunday after also winning Saturday’s sprint race.
  • Rain may hit the Gilles‑Villeneuve circuit: The forecast could add some drama to Sunday’s race.
  • The Ebola file remains under watch: Ten African countries are at risk, while an Ontario patient tested as a precaution has received a negative result.

Society and Politics

  • Christine Fréchette says she intends to defy election predictions: She frames Quebec’s next choice as one between resignation, illusion and ambition.
  • The Pentagon has sent Canada a document outlining defence priorities: A U.S. official says Ottawa has yet to offer a credible response.
  • Eric Girard was in New York to reassure investors: Quebec’s finance minister presented the province’s financial outlook.

Main Story

A new U.S. policy on permanent resident cards could create a bottleneck in Montreal

Among today’s stories, this one deserves a closer look because it directly affects Canadians living in the United States who are seeking permanent residency.

A new American policy now requires most foreign nationals living in the U.S. with temporary status to file their permanent resident card applications from their country of origin. This affects people in the U.S. on study, temporary work or visitor visas, even though some exceptions remain unclear.

For Quebec, the impact is immediate: the only U.S. consulate in Canada that handles these cases is in Montreal. An immigration lawyer warns that the new rule could trigger a surge in applications and stretch processing times for months or even years.

In other words, this is not an abstract American decision. It is a change that could make Montreal a mandatory stop for many Canadians caught in the process.

In Detail

Downtown Montreal is riding a very busy weekend thanks to the Grand Prix and the Canadiens

Downtown Montreal saw heavy crowds on Saturday as Grand Prix activities overlapped with renewed excitement around the Canadiens.

Merchants on Crescent Street describe one of the busiest weekends of the year, with business up roughly sixty percent in one establishment. Sunday’s race and the Canadiens’ return home for Game 3 on Monday should keep the momentum going.

For Laval residents heading into Montreal, the message is simple: expect crowds, noise, energy and a little less peace than usual. Downtown has clearly put quiet mode away for the weekend.

A police chase on Highway 15 ended in a crash in Saint‑Lambert

A Lamborghini spotted at very high speed around 3:45 a.m. early Saturday led to a Sûreté du Québec intervention on Highway 15.

The driver refused to stop. The chase began but was quickly called off due to the vehicle’s speed. The car was later involved in a crash near Route 132 in Saint‑Lambert.

The 22‑year‑old driver from Varennes suffered minor injuries. He was arrested for dangerous driving and fleeing police, then released pending a court appearance.

Federal Bill C‑22 raises concerns among privacy experts

Federal Bill C‑22, presented as a tool to help law enforcement, is raising serious concerns among privacy specialists. They fear it could introduce security weaknesses and mechanisms that undermine encryption, a worry echoed by companies like Apple, Meta and NordVPN, which say the bill could compromise user data security.

Critics point to the bill’s ambiguity, which could lead to backdoor access in certain systems, allowing security protections to be bypassed. As Professor Michael Geist notes, once such vulnerabilities exist, malicious actors can exploit them just as easily as law enforcement.

The government insists it does not intend to force providers to break encryption and says it is open to clarifying the bill. But for many experts, the issue goes beyond technical details: any law that affects how data is stored, transmitted or accessed directly affects the digital lives and rights of citizens.

George Russell delivered a standout day at the Canadian Grand Prix

George Russell had an almost perfect day in Montreal, winning the sprint race and then securing a third straight pole position on the Gilles‑Villeneuve circuit after what he called an “incredible feeling” of a lap.

In cool, unpredictable conditions that caught several drivers off guard, the Briton got the most out of his Mercedes, edging Kimi Antonelli by only sixty‑eight thousandths. Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri will start just behind him, while the forecasted rain could turn Sunday’s race into a real survival test.

Coup de Coeur

There is something comforting about seeing Montreal draw so many people for events that bring the city together. Even if it means more noise, more traffic and a few sighs along the way, it is a reminder that the region still knows how to create big collective moments.

Before we go

Thanks for taking a moment to sort through the news with us.

Wishing you a good evening, an efficient Sunday, and just enough patience if your plans take you onto an ambitious road or into a very popular downtown. ☕

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Laval Today. May. 22, 2026

Laval QC ☕ The Morning Chat

Good morning,

Today we start close to home with a story that directly affects Laval, then widen the lens toward Montreal, Quebec and a few Canadian issues with very real consequences. On the menu: transportation, culture, sports and a couple of reminders that the news cycle always finds a new twist.

Top stories this morning

  • Laval will not have to pay 1.1 million dollars to former mayor Vaillancourt: Ottawa will cover 1.1 million dollars in unpaid taxes linked to former mayor Gilles Vaillancourt’s fraud case, which means the City of Laval avoids the bill.
  • Ottawa steps in to prevent pharmacies in Quebec from going back to fax machines: The PrescripTIon Québec project will continue despite the May 29 cutoff.
  • CRTC requires online platforms to invest more in Canadian content: Streaming services will have to invest 15 percent of their Canadian revenues in local content.
  • Partial lane closures on Viger and Saint Urbain: Closures are planned from May 24 to June 6 for work on the Saint Urbain viaduct.

Justice and society

  • Life imprisonment for the murderer of Daphnée Jolivet: An adult life sentence was handed down on Friday.
  • Daniel Rochefort will remain in custody until his trial: His release has been denied.
  • A man from the Quebec area arrested in connection with a terrorism investigation, released under conditions: A man arrested in Lévis has been released under conditions and will return to court on June 1.
  • A mother and her son from Lachine die by drowning in 2025: the coroner rules it an accident: The coroner rules it an accidental drowning and recommends more awareness around private pools and swimming lessons.

Culture, sports and public life

  • Gilles Villeneuve named a historic figure of Quebec: A commemorative plaque will be installed at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve.
  • An honorary doctorate from Polytechnique Montréal awarded to Charles Tisseyre: Polytechnique highlights his contribution to scientific popularization.
  • Florence Longpré makes the big leap into cinema with La portraitiste: Her first film as a screenwriter will tell the story of a woman’s emancipation and, through her, of Quebec.
  • The Canadiens avoid the trap, the Hurricanes fall into it: Montreal turned the game in their favor in 10 minutes.
  • Victoria Mboko en finale à Strasbourg au terme d’un match marathon : La Canadienne s’est qualifiée pour la finale après une victoire en trois manches.

Across Canada and abroad

  • The Treasury Board wants to provide an office space for the majority of employees: The federal government is committed to offering spaces assigned to the majority of employees concerned.
  • The rise in gasoline prices has boosted retail sales in March: Sales increased by 0.9% to reach $72.7 billion.
  • Anand denounces the mistreatment of Canadians detained in Israel: Twelve Canadians intercepted aboard a flotilla have arrived in Turkey and are receiving urgent medical care.
  • Ebola risk in the DRC rises from high to very high, says the head of the WHO: The WHO reports nearly 750 suspected cases and 177 suspected deaths.

Main story

Ottawa covers 1.1 million dollars in unpaid taxes tied to former mayor Vaillancourt, and Laval avoids the bill

This is the most directly Lavallois story of the day, touching both public finances and a name that still carries weight in local political memory.

Ottawa will assume 1.1 million dollars in unpaid taxes linked to Gilles Vaillancourt’s fraud case. In practical terms, Laval will not have to pay the amount.

It is a simple fact, but it carries real weight. When a city avoids a bill of this size in a sensitive file, it is not trivial. It is not exactly the kind of budget line that calls for celebration, but it is still an important outcome for Laval.

In detail

Quebec avoids a return to fax machines in pharmacies

A sentence we did not expect to write seriously in 2026, yet here we are.

PrescripTIon Québec, which was supposed to be shut down on May 29, will continue thanks to federal intervention. The immediate result is clear: pharmacies in Quebec will not be forced back to fax machines.

It is the kind of technical issue that stays invisible until it starts making life harder for everyone. We will skip the mechanics, but the practical impact is obvious.

Montreal shifts into Grand Prix mode, with the Canadiens humming in the background

Downtown Montreal is gearing up for heavy crowds for the Canadian Grand Prix and the Canadiens playoff run.

Merchants in the Peel sector expect an exceptional week, with some comparing it to a full month of business packed into a few days. And it is not limited to one street. The energy is already spilling into Old Montreal, Crescent, Saint Laurent and Griffintown.

For Laval residents heading into the city this weekend, the message is simple: expect crowds, and plenty of them.

Partial closures on Viger and Saint Urbain until June 6

Transport Québec is implementing partial closures from May 24 to June 6 on Viger West and Saint Urbain for work on the viaduct over Route 136.

One lane will remain open in each direction, detours are planned and trucks will be prohibited between René Lévesque West and Viger West.

Not the most thrilling news, unless you are already stuck in traffic, but exactly the kind of practical update worth keeping in mind before heading out.

Gilles Villeneuve officially named a historic figure of Quebec

Quebec has formally designated Gilles Villeneuve as a historic figure. The announcement was made in Montreal by Premier Christine Fréchette.

A commemorative plaque will be installed at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, and a temporary exhibition titled Salut Gilles: A Story of Speed in Montréal will open July 16 at Parc Jean Drapeau.

It is a double gesture: honouring a major figure in Quebec sports history and giving the public two concrete ways to revisit his legacy.

Spotlight

The honorary doctorate awarded to Charles Tisseyre feels especially fitting. Bringing science within reach of the public is not just about explaining things. It is about giving people the desire to understand the world a little better.

To finish

Thanks for spending this moment with us.

This morning, the news takes us from Laval to Montreal and then across the country, with a mix of practical updates, major decisions and stories that touch daily life. A full morning, without even needing to fire up a fax machine. ☕

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Laval Today. May. 20, 2026

Laval QC ☕ The daily chat

Good morning,

Today we are keeping an eye on what affects daily life most directly: transportation, gas prices, public‑sector work and a few files that raise very concrete questions for Laval. We also add a bit of sports, culture and public health to cover the essentials without overwhelming your morning coffee.

What to know this morning

  • Driver who fell from the Laval–Île‑Bizard ferry: warning signs existed as far back as 2021 Transport Canada had already flagged issues with the lifeboat and crew training, problems that have resurfaced today.
  • Couche‑Tard offering a 10‑cent‑per‑litre discount on Thursday Participating stations will apply the discount between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.
  • Quebec government engineers begin a strike at midnight The walkout is set to last one day to start, with the possibility of escalating through June.
  • Public figures call for better coordination on homelessness Pauline Marois and about thirty public figures are calling for a national summit on homelessness by 2027.
  • FIFA World Cup could cost governments more than 1 billion dollars The estimated average cost is 82 million dollars per match in Canada.

To watch for

  • School deprivation index For the 2024–2025 school year, 689 elementary schools and 194 high schools are classified as disadvantaged in Quebec according to the IMSE.
  • Transport ministry cannot impose open‑concept offices on its engineers A grievance arbitrator has ruled that designated workstations must be provided.
  • Snowbirds grounded until the early 2030s The current fleet will be replaced with new aircraft.

Across Canada and around the world

  • Ebola in Central Africa Global Affairs Canada says it is not aware of any Canadians affected, while the government advises against travel to the Ituri province.
  • CERB fraud Eight people from Ottawa, Gatineau and Montreal face charges in a 364,000‑dollar cyberfraud case.
  • Gaza flotilla Anita Anand has requested that Israel’s ambassador be summoned after the interception of a flotilla in which 11 Canadians were detained.
  • San Diego The perpetrators of a mosque shooting reportedly met online.

Main story

Laval–Île‑Bizard ferry raises new questions after concerns flagged as early as 2021

A driver was swept into the Rivière des Prairies when the ferry detached from the dock during unloading, a chaotic scene that was filmed and widely shared.

The inspection carried out four days later uncovered seven non‑conformities: a locked lifeboat, a buoy whose rope became jammed, missing inspection records and a crew that was not adequately trained for emergencies. These issues had already been identified in 2021 but were never corrected in a lasting way.

The incident also echoes a case from four years earlier, when a driver found herself only halfway onto the ferry as it pulled away too soon. She tried to alert authorities, without success. Two similar events, two ignored warnings.

For people in the area and for those who rely on this crossing, the issue goes beyond technical details. Trust in a basic public service has been shaken, especially in a stretch of river where the current is strong and small mistakes can quickly turn dangerous.

In detail

Couche‑Tard gas discount arrives as prices remain high in Quebec

Participating Couche‑Tard stations will offer a 10‑cent‑per‑litre discount on Thursday between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m., while supplies last. The price displayed at the pump will include the discount.

For many drivers, it is not the kind of news that changes an entire week, but it is enough to influence the timing of a detour. And when it comes to gas, these small calculations have become part of the routine whether we like it or not.

Quebec government engineers begin a strike during a critical period

Government engineers are launching a one‑day strike starting at midnight.

The APIGQ represents 1,900 members, mainly at the Ministry of Transport but also in other departments. The union says negotiations are at a standstill and the movement could intensify through June.

The key point here is timing. The conflict arrives during an important period for authorizing and launching infrastructure projects. Even when a strike seems far from everyday life, it rarely is when it affects the machinery behind public works.

Calls for better coordination on homelessness across Quebec

Thirty public figures, including former premier Pauline Marois, researchers, community leaders and union representatives, are asking the government to organize a national summit on homelessness by June 2027.

Their message is straightforward: current responses are too fragmented. They want a shared approach that aligns cities, community groups and the provincial government. For Laval, the issue is very concrete, touching frontline services, public space and the capacity of the social safety net to keep up with reality on the ground.

Ebola in Central Africa: Canada advises against certain travel and reports no Canadians affected

Global Affairs Canada says it is not aware of any Canadians affected by the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda.

The government is advising against travel to Ituri, a region where thousands of Canadians are registered. Federal authorities are monitoring the situation closely.

For families with relatives abroad or upcoming travel plans, this remains a file to watch.

Coup de coeur

Today’s cultural highlight comes from Montreal, with the return of the Mario Bartolini exhibition and an activity designed for children. Watching art move from a studio to a gallery and then into small paint‑covered hands is a good reminder that culture thrives when it circulates.

In closing

Thank you for making space for this read in your morning. Take what is useful, leave the rest for later and move into your day with a bit more clarity than you had a moment ago. ☕

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Laval Today. May. 15, 2026

Laval QC ☕ The morning chat

Good morning,

Laval’s news today is led by a large‑scale police operation that resulted in several arrests, while Montreal is heading into a weekend of major road closures that will directly affect many Laval commuters. Here is a clear look at what could have a concrete impact here at home.

What to know this morning

  • 23 arrests in an online child exploitation operation: Laval is among the cities targeted in this Sûreté du Québec operation, carried out from May 11 to 14 with 25 searches.
  • Major road closures in Montreal: The Ville‑Marie tunnel, Highway 25, the Louis‑Hippolyte‑La Fontaine tunnel and other areas will be affected over the long weekend.
  • Quebec will reimburse the carbon tax for farm businesses: The government plans $87 million to offset these costs and is adding support for new farmers.
  • La Victoire de Montréal won the first game of the final: A sports highlight that resonates well beyond Montreal.

Society and politics

  • The Office of the Commissioner of Official Languages is investigating the Air Canada CEO: More than 2,400 complaints were filed after an English‑only message was released.
  • The CSQ is challenging the union governance law: The case is now before the Superior Court.
  • The Court recognizes intimate partner violence as a distinct civil offence: This opens the door to civil claims for damages.
  • Mark Carney says he is open to selling public infrastructure: Airports are among the assets being considered to fund new projects.
  • A major virtual private network provider may leave Canada: NordVPN says it is reviewing its presence in the country due to the federal lawful access bill.

To keep an eye on

  • Transat absorbs an additional $70 million in fuel costs: The company is reducing some capacity and suspending its Cuba routes until November.
  • 26 airline passengers in Canada are being monitored for hantavirus as a precaution: No symptomatic cases have been reported in the country.

Main story

A provincial operation targeting online child exploitation led to 23 arrests, including in Laval

The Sûreté du Québec announced 23 arrests following an operation carried out from May 11 to 14 targeting online child sexual exploitation. Laval is among the cities involved, along with Montreal, Quebec City, Longueuil and Gatineau.

More than 160 officers took part in 25 searches. The men arrested are between 26 and 73 years old and face charges related to possession, distribution and access to child sexual abuse material.

The SQ also reported the seizure of more than four million files and the identification of four victims so far. Seven of the accused remain in custody.

It is the kind of news no one wants with their morning coffee, but it is also a reminder of the very real police work happening behind these cases, including here at home.

In detail

Montreal road closures could complicate weekend travel for many Laval residents

Montreal is entering a period of major road closures. Eastbound Route 136 will be closed in the Ville‑Marie tunnel from Friday at 11 p.m. to Monday at 5 a.m. for repairs, paving and line painting.

Nighttime disruptions are also planned at the Turcot Interchange until May 19. In addition, Highway 25 and the Louis‑Hippolyte‑La Fontaine tunnel will be closed in both directions overnight from Friday to Saturday for maintenance and upgrades.

A new phase of work on Highway 520 will also begin on May 20. For many Laval residents who need to travel through Montreal, it is worth checking Québec 511 before heading out to avoid a surprise detour that lasts longer than the destination itself.

Overtime strike at Hydro‑Québec does not affect regular service but could slow some projects

Two Hydro‑Québec unions representing about 9,000 employees have launched an unlimited strike by refusing overtime.

Hydro‑Québec says regular operations are not affected. However, some non‑urgent work and more complex operations could be delayed.

The collective agreements for these groups expired on December 31, 2023. One of the main points of contention is the use of subcontracting.

Digital health record rollout lacks technical support in CLSCs and CHSLDs, unions say

Quebec’s new digital health record is in a pilot phase in the CIUSSS du Nord‑de‑l’Île‑de‑Montréal and in Mauricie–Centre‑du‑Québec. On the ground, union representatives say CLSC and CHSLD teams lack the technical support needed to keep up.

The model relies on employees who help colleagues use the system, but several have stepped away from the role, saying it is heavier than expected. Requests for help are also piling up because some tools already used in frontline services do not integrate well with the new system.

During the transition, facilities are temporarily reducing non‑urgent services to 50 to 75 percent of normal levels. Unions warn that the adjustment period could last more than two weeks.

Coup de cœur

The lighter note of the day comes from the sports world, with La Victoire de Montréal taking the first game of the final. Nothing over the top, but enough to give a small boost to fans in Laval who enjoy seeing a local story shine a little beyond the rink.

Before we go

Thank you for starting your day with us.

Take care, keep an eye on your routes if you need to travel through Montreal, and we will see you tomorrow for more. ☕