Tag: Quebec politics

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Laval Today. jun. 13, 2026

Laval QC ☕ Weekend Coffee Chat

Greetings to all,

Today we are keeping an eye on what affects daily life directly, along with a few broader stories that deserve more than a quick glance between sips of coffee. On the menu: Quebec politics, public safety in Montreal, a food recall, and a few Canadian stories that go beyond the headline.

What to know this morning

  • The National Assembly has adjourned until the fall: The parliamentary session is over and MNAs will next meet on the campaign trail.
  • The Quebec Liberal Party plans to send a formal notice to Paul St‑Pierre Plamondon: The PLQ is responding after the PQ leader linked the party to organized crime.
  • The ban on open fires in or near forests has been lifted: Quebec ended the measure Saturday morning in collaboration with SOPFEU.
  • Five children from the same family die in an Ontario collision: Five adults and an infant were also seriously injured.
  • Lactantia UltraPūr 2 percent lactose‑free milk recalled: The product is being pulled due to excessive levels of vitamins A and D.
  • Unauthorized nicotine pouches recalled: Health Canada is recalling Siberia (35 mg) and ZYN (6 mg) nicotine pouches sold without authorization. Incorrect nicotine levels on the labels can lead to overconsumption and adverse effects. Consumers are asked to check their products and stop using the affected lots.
  • Canada earns a point in its first World Cup match: The Canadian team opened the tournament with a draw.

Justice and society

  • In Montreal, the investigation into Station 39 is expanding: Two officers have been suspended, three reassigned to administrative duties, and fourteen others transferred or moved to roles without public contact.
  • Montreal’s mayor wants to speed up the body‑camera project: The city plans to invest 40 million dollars to deploy body cameras and cameras on police vehicles.
  • The police union condemns the racism allegations: It calls the allegations completely unacceptable and disturbing, while reminding the public of the presumption of innocence.

Across Canada

  • New Brunswick’s lieutenant‑governor must be bilingual: The Supreme Court of Canada ruled in favour of the Société de l’Acadie du Nouveau‑Brunswick.
  • Zero‑emission vehicle sales are rising: In April, sales were up 21 percent year over year nationwide.
  • Mark Carney sees the G7 as a place of realignment: He believes the summit could help shape a new global order.
  • Canada denies entry to Thomas Partey for the World Cup: Ghana plans diplomatic and legal steps after the visa refusal.

Top story

Important recall: a Lactantia milk sold in Quebec contains excessive levels of vitamins A and D

A recall affects a specific Lactantia product: UltraPūr 2 percent lactose‑free milk sold in two‑litre cartons, identified by UPC 0 68200 14854 0 and best‑before date June 22, 2026. The product contains excessive enrichment of vitamins A and D, above recommended daily limits.

The recall mainly concerns purchases made at Costco, where the product was sold under item 1987085. Lactalis Canada says the enrichment error may pose a health risk if consumed in large quantities, although no illnesses have been reported.

Consumers are asked not to drink the product, not to serve or use it, and to discard it or return it to the point of purchase for a full refund. Anyone with concerns or symptoms is encouraged to speak with a health professional.

No other UltraPūr products from Lactantia are affected.

In depth

In Montreal, the Station 39 case reignites the body‑camera debate

Montreal mayor Soraya Martinez Ferrada responded to allegations of discriminatory, hateful and racist behaviour involving officers from Station 39 in Montreal North.

Two officers have been suspended. Three others have been assigned to administrative duties. Fourteen others have been transferred or reassigned to roles without public contact.

The SPVM has been investigating since March. The city plans to invest 40 million dollars to deploy body cameras and cameras on police vehicles.

Legal questions still need to be resolved before the tools can be put into service.

Quebec fully lifts the ban on open fires in or near forests

The Ministry of Public Security has fully lifted the ban on open fires in or near forests.

The decision took effect Saturday at 9 a.m., in collaboration with SOPFEU.

Since the start of the season, 202 fires have affected 194 hectares. At the same date, the ten‑year average is 241 fires and 108,164 hectares burned.

The parliamentary session ends and the political tone continues to rise

The National Assembly has adjourned until the fall.

In the same political wave, the Quebec Liberal Party intends to send a formal notice to Paul St‑Pierre Plamondon after the PQ leader linked the party to organized crime.

In other words, even when the work stops, the atmosphere is not exactly taking a coffee break.

Canada denies entry to Thomas Partey for the World Cup

The Ghanaian government plans diplomatic and legal steps after Canada refused a visa to Thomas Partey for the World Cup opening match in Toronto.

Canada says each entry request is assessed individually based on available facts and applicable laws.

The player will still be able to take part in the June 23 match in the United States.

Before we go

Thanks for starting your day with us.

Wishing you a simple weekend, smooth travel, and a day that moves a little more gently than your inbox. ☕

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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. 28, 2026

Laval QC ☕ Morning Briefing

Good morning,

Today brings a lot of concrete items to discuss: health, public safety, and a few political files making noise in both Quebec City and Ottawa. Here is what you need to start the day with a head a little less cluttered than your inbox.

What to know this morning

  • 556,473 patients now affiliated with a GMF: Quebec surpasses its target a month early, but real clinical follow‑up remains unclear.
  • Quebec sovereignty: Mathieu Lacombe would vote yes: The Culture Minister says he does not want a referendum, but would vote yes if one were held.
  • Steven Guilbeault stepping away from politics: Guilbeault says he will leave political life at the end of the parliamentary session.

Across Canada and around the world

  • Visit from China’s foreign minister: A first in ten years, seen as a sign of diplomatic easing.
  • Strait of Hormuz: conflicting signals: Iran says it has received a draft agreement. Washington denies it.

Main story

556,473 patients affiliated with a GMF, but follow‑up remains unclear

Quebec says it has surpassed its target: 556,473 people are now registered with a family doctor or a GMF, one month ahead of schedule. Health Minister Sonia Bélanger notes that more than 200,000 vulnerable patients are included in the total.

But the announcement raises several questions.

Family doctors will receive a 2.5 per cent bonus for reaching the target, after an accelerated mailing of affiliation letters. And despite being registered, patients are not yet under active follow‑up. They will still need to go through the GAP to get an appointment. The affiliation is real, but clinical care is not yet in place.

Quebec also relaxed verification procedures to reach the target, which led to some incorrect registrations, including patients already receiving care in CHSLDs.

Opposition parties call it a “letters, not appointments” operation and question the real impact of bonuses paid before services improve.

For Laval, the immediate effect is limited. Newly registered patients enter the network, but wait times will still depend on GMF capacity and how the GAP functions.

In detail

Quebec’s ombudsman criticizes prolonged isolation and other detention practices

Quebec’s ombudsman, Marc‑André Dowd, is criticizing the use of measures he considers poorly adapted in provincial detention centres. His report describes an approach centred on complete isolation, handcuffs, chains and pepper spray, interventions that worsen problematic behaviour among vulnerable detainees instead of stabilizing it.

He highlights the case of a woman kept in 24‑hour isolation for nearly two months, a measure that intensified her self‑destructive reactions. The report notes that these practices do not reflect the realities increasingly present in detention, such as mental health issues, addiction, intellectual disabilities or homelessness.

Mr. Dowd recommends a more consistent use of psychosocial approaches, already outlined by the ministry but rarely applied. Two teams that adopted this model saw better outcomes for both detainees and staff. The report proposes 17 measures to reduce prolonged isolation, improve training and humanize interventions without compromising safety.

Indigenous women continue to be sterilized without consent in Quebec

We noted yesterday that a report confirmed Indigenous women in Quebec had been sterilized without their consent. Newly released details paint an even heavier picture. Professor Suzy Basile, who leads the research, says the accounts gathered across Nations clearly show systemic racism in the health system.

This second phase of the study includes testimony from 97 women, 55 of whom were sterilized without consent, with cases occurring after 2000 and even in 2022. Combining both phases, 77 of 132 women report a forced sterilization. Indigenous leaders are calling for official apologies and compare the gravity of the issue to other dark chapters in history, noting that the refusal to acknowledge systemic racism prevents real progress.

The report also highlights the exhaustion of women and organizations who see studies pile up without concrete change. Despite commitments made after the death of Joyce Echaquan, many say they still do not feel safe in the health system. The fact that three times more women testified than in 2022 shows both a growing willingness to speak out and the urgency of lasting change.

Coup de Cœur

Even on a day dominated by numbers, investigations and political tension, there is something reassuring in news that touches access to care. It is not spectacular, but when a file speaks directly to appointments, follow‑up and doors opening a little wider, it reaches people’s real lives.

Before we go

Thanks for starting your morning with us. We wish you a clear head, lighter traffic and, if possible, a slightly less painful stop at the pump. ☕

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Laval Today. May. 27, 2026

Laval QC ☕ The morning chat

Good morning,

Today brings some very concrete news for daily life, with an expected drop in gas prices in the region, a major vehicle‑theft operation that affects Greater Montreal, and several Quebec and Canadian issues that could have real impacts here as well. You will find a quick overview first, followed by a few expanded items to help you see things more clearly without spending your whole morning on it.

What to know this morning

  • Gas prices expected to drop 9 cents in the Montreal region on Thursday A drop of about nine cents per litre is expected starting at 12:01 a.m. Thursday in the Montreal region, including an example of 190.9 cents per litre on Curé‑Labelle Boulevard in Laval.
  • Family doctors have registered the 500,000 new patients requested by Quebec Quebec and the Federation of General Practitioners of Quebec say 500,000 new patients have now been registered, including more than 220,000 people considered vulnerable.
  • About 40 stolen vehicles intercepted at the Port of Montreal Roughly 40 stolen vehicles were intercepted at the Port of Montreal, and six more were later seized in a commercial building in Anjou.
  • SPVM arrests three men in connection with an unsolved 2022 murder in Saint‑Léonard Three men were arrested in Terrebonne, Mascouche and L’Épiphanie in connection with a 2022 killing in Saint‑Léonard.
  • Ottawa announces a 21‑day isolation measure to prevent Ebola The federal government will require a 21‑day isolation period as part of its Ebola prevention measures.

Society and politics

  • Liberal leadership race: UPAC met with MNA Sona Lakhoyan Olivier UPAC met with the MNA regarding the “brownies” text‑message issue, and she was reprimanded by members of the National Assembly.
  • Indigenous women sterilized: “Systemic racism is very real” A recent report concludes that Indigenous women in Quebec continue to be sterilized against their will.
  • Not enough, 50 percent plus one? Mark Carney shocks the National Assembly CAQ MNAs refuse to say what they would do if a referendum were held.
  • Prisons: the ombudsman denounces coercive measures as “ineffective” The latest report criticizes, among other things, 24‑hour isolation.

Across Canada

  • Canada and Germany sign LNG export agreement One million tonnes of LNG will be exported to Europe from the Ksi Lisims facility.
  • Submarines: Germany promises 86 billion dollars in economic benefits to Canada The TKMS consortium is highlighting major economic benefits as part of its bid.
  • Ottawa in talks with Saab to build airborne radar aircraft in Canada A deal with Saab would be a setback for Boeing.
  • Opioid crisis: victims urged to join class action The lead plaintiff is encouraging other victims to register.
  • Flight attendants’ union urges Ottawa to reject airlines’ proposals on unpaid work The main union representing flight attendants is asking Ottawa to reject carriers’ submissions on unpaid labour.

Top Story

Gas prices could drop about nine cents in the region, including in Laval

Drivers could see a bit of relief at the pump starting Thursday. A drop of about nine cents per litre is expected in the Montreal region beginning at 12:01 a.m.

Laval appears directly in Wednesday’s observed prices, with regular gas listed at 190.9 cents per litre at a Petro‑Canada station on Curé‑Labelle Boulevard.

The expected drop is linked to market optimism tied to a possible easing of tensions between the United States and Iran, which could lead to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, an important route for global oil transport.

A quick reminder, since gas prices like to change their mind without warning: these forecasts remain volatile and can shift quickly.

In depth

Operation at the Port of Montreal recovered about 40 stolen vehicles

A coordinated operation Tuesday at the Port of Montreal led to the interception of about 40 stolen vehicles, most of them pickup trucks or luxury cars.

Six additional vehicles were seized in a commercial building in Anjou based on information gathered during the operation.

In total, 47 truck drivers were questioned and 21 tickets were issued. The evidence collected could lead to further investigations in Quebec and Ontario, and the file will be sent to the Director of Criminal and Penal Prosecutions for possible charges.

Quebec announces 500,000 new patients registered with family doctors

The Federation of General Practitioners of Quebec says it has reached the target of 500,000 new patient registrations, one month ahead of schedule.

More than 220,000 of these registrations involve people considered vulnerable. Most of these patients are expected to be matched with a family doctor.

Other patients will be registered with a group of family physicians. They will continue to use the primary care access point to obtain appointments.

Three arrests made in the 2022 Saint‑Léonard murder case

SPVM officers arrested three men in the investigation into the killing of a man shot outside a Saint‑Léonard car wash in 2022.

The arrests took place in Terrebonne, Mascouche and L’Épiphanie. The suspects are expected to face first‑degree murder charges.

Police link the case to organized crime. The victim was struck by several projectiles while in his vehicle, and the suspects are believed to have fled in a car that was later found burned.

Ottawa tightens health measures with 21‑day isolation to prevent Ebola

The federal government is imposing a 21‑day quarantine for travellers arriving from regions affected by Ebola. Ottawa describes it as a precaution, even though the risk to Canadians remains low.

The World Health Organization reports an outbreak of a rare type of Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, with more than 900 suspected cases and more than 220 deaths. No vaccine or specific treatment is available.

Travellers will be screened at the border and anyone showing symptoms will be sent to a hospital. The measures take effect Saturday and remain in place until August 29. A place to isolate will be provided for those who do not have one.

Ottawa is also suspending final decisions on certain immigration applications from the DRC, South Sudan and Uganda for 90 days.

Spotlight

There is nothing spectacular about a drop in gas prices, but for many people, a few cents less per litre is already a small and very real piece of good news. Sometimes daily life is better when it stays simple.

Closing note

Wishing you a well‑ordered day, with useful news, a bit of perspective and, ideally, fewer surprises than your gas bill. We take the good news when it comes. ☕

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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. 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. 13, 2026

Laval QC ☕ 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 Sûreté du Québec is searching for a Laval resident in connection with the shooting at a Starbucks in Chomedey.
  • Canadiens lose 3–2: 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 health‑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: Jean‑François Roberge says an expansion would shift 27,000 students from the English network to the French network.
  • Quebec polling: The Liberals and the Parti Québécois 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 Sûreté du Québec is searching for a Laval man in the Bobby the Greek murder case

The Sûreté du Québec has issued an arrest warrant for Denis Beaupré, a 54‑year‑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 Beaupré 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 organized‑crime case that shook Chomedey is still unfolding.

In detail

The Victoire’s decisive game will be played at Place Bell after a health‑related postponement

The fifth game between the Montreal Victoire and the Minnesota Frost is scheduled for Place Bell in Laval after Monday’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 Sûreté du Québec 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 Ville‑Marie and Viger tunnels. Ramps from Robert‑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, easier‑than‑expected travel, and hopefully a coffee break without sirens or surprise detours.

☕

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Daily

Laval Today. May. 12, 2026

Laval QC ☕ 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 Montréal. There is also sports action at Place Bell, a criminal case resurfacing in Laval, and several Québec‑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 Sûreté du Québec is searching for a 54‑year‑old Laval resident in connection with the killing of Charalambos Theologou at a Starbucks in Chomedey.
  • Do‑or‑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 Ville‑Marie and Viger tunnels, with heavy congestion expected.
  • Digital justice overhaul under scrutiny: The 500‑million‑dollar project is facing delays and may be audited over governance and cost issues.
  • TVA warns the crisis exceeds its capacity: Pierre Karl Péladeau is calling for rapid action and is not ruling out further cuts.

Local

  • REM extends to the West Island: The extension toward Anse‑à‑l’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: Montréal will try to take a 3‑1 lead in its series against the Sabres.

Justice and Society

  • Arrest in a long‑unsolved LaSalle murder: A man already detained in Drummondville will be charged with first‑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.

Québec 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: Santé Québec cites faulty equipment and says nearly 20,000 users have already logged in.
  • Éric Girard defends investment in Nemaska Lithium: The minister stands by the decision despite criticism from the sustainable development commissioner.
  • CAA‑Québec 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 long‑term shutdown between Sainte‑Rose and Highway 440, where traffic will be diverted to the two‑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 Québec is urging motorists to allow extra travel time and check Québec 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 Sûreté du Québec has issued an arrest warrant for Denis Beaupré, a 54‑year‑old Laval resident, in the investigation into the October 1, 2025 shooting at a Starbucks in Chomedey.

Charalambos Theologou, known as “Bobby the Greek,” 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 illness‑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

Québec’s 500‑million‑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 sub‑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 Péladeau says the crisis at TVA now exceeds the company’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 Anse‑à‑l’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. ☕

Categories
Daily

Laval Today. May. 5, 2026

Laval QC ☕ The morning chat

Good morning,

Today we’re keeping an eye on a major case in Laval, several political developments moving forward in Quebec City, and some very practical news for households here at home. There’s also plenty to watch in transport, the census, and the regional economy… a lineup that gets straight to the point.

The Essentials

  • Pierre Ny St‑Amand challenges his high‑risk designation: The man found not criminally responsible after the Laval daycare tragedy is seeking to appeal that designation.
  • 2026 Census letters are arriving: Households and agricultural operations will soon receive instructions on how to respond by May 12.
  • AirAsia expected to announce the purchase of 150 aircraft in Mirabel: Mark Carney and Christine Fréchette are scheduled to be at the Airbus site on Wednesday.
  • Louise Arbour will become Canada’s next Governor General: The announcement was made Tuesday by Prime Minister Mark Carney.

To Watch

  • Quebec renewing the notwithstanding clause for Bill 96: Christine Fréchette is expected to table a bill on Wednesday.
  • Bill 1 on Quebec’s Constitution returning quickly: Simon Jolin‑Barrette says it will be adopted by June 12.
  • Artificial intelligence could reshape the labour market far more than expected: Several sectors central to Laval, from logistics to professional services, may need to adapt quickly.

Close to Home

  • Montréal study clarifies the role of vitamin K in bone health: Researchers have better identified how this vitamin influences the balance between cells that break down bone and those that rebuild it.
  • Greater Montréal preparing for strong winds and rain: Significant gusts and showers are expected through mid‑week.

Top Story

Pierre Ny St‑Amand challenges his high‑risk designation after the Laval daycare tragedy

Pierre Ny St‑Amand, the man found not criminally responsible after driving a bus into a Laval daycare in 2023, is appealing his designation as a high‑risk accused.

The Quebec Court of Appeal has granted him additional time to file his notice of appeal. His lawyers now have until September 4 to submit the required documents.

The designation, imposed in March, keeps him under stricter conditions at the Philippe‑Pinel Institute in Montréal, particularly regarding authorized absences.

It is recalled that two children were killed and six others were injured in the tragedy.

In Depth

AirAsia expected to announce the purchase of 150 aircraft in Mirabel

An announcement is expected Wednesday at the Airbus site in Mirabel regarding AirAsia’s purchase of 150 aircraft.

Mark Carney and Christine Fréchette are scheduled to attend.

No further details have been released for now, but the announcement places Mirabel at the centre of a significant economic file for the region.

Quebec revives several political files, including Bill 96 and Bill 1

Christine Fréchette is set to table a bill renewing the notwithstanding clause tied to Bill 96. The clause is intended to shield the law from certain legal challenges.

The National Assembly returns for a 17‑day session with several items on the agenda.

In the same context, Simon Jolin‑Barrette says Bill 1 on Quebec’s Constitution will be reintroduced and adopted by June 12, with support from Éric Duhaime’s Conservatives.

AI could disrupt far more industries in Canada than many expect

The rapid rise of artificial intelligence is raising increasingly concrete questions about the labour market, here and elsewhere.

People often think first of programming or administrative tasks, but the potential effects go much further. Accounting, law, certain financial services, advertising, design, music, film, and many software tools used in business could all be affected.

For a city like Laval, the issue is worth watching closely. Logistics, manufacturing, professional services, and many office‑based roles may need to adapt as these tools become more widespread.

For now, governments and businesses are still trying to gauge the scale of the shift. One thing already seems clear: artificial intelligence is not just a technology‑sector issue.

Coup de Cœur

Seeing Mirabel return to the spotlight for an industrial announcement of this scale is a reminder that the North Shore doesn’t just keep pace… it helps set it.

Before we go

That’s the main news this morning. Between justice files, transport, politics, and the regional economy, the day starts with concrete developments and a few points to keep in mind before the second coffee. ☕