Author name: The Suburban

Athena’s House needs a new kitchen

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

by Dan Laxer
The Suburban

The Shield of Athena is holding its annual membership fundraiser next week. This year they need support to rebuild the kitchen at Athena’s House, their emergency shelter.

The non-profit organization formed in 1991 to support victims of family violence. Founder Melpa Kamateros, along with others, initially began speaking to the community in church basements about conjugal violence. They eventually branched out into other areas.

“We developed a model – a model of awareness, and a model of intervention. This model that we perfected with one community we later parlayed into working with many other communities. And as a consequence, this organization, that was not designed to furnish services, presently has a network of services that includes two centres, an emergency shelter, and a soon-to-be fourth point, our second-step resource,” which will be a transition home for women.

The kitchen is the heart of its emergency shelter, Athena’s House opened in 2004. In the almost 21 years since it opened thousands of women and their children have lived been through its doors. Kamateros says they’ve noticed the length of stays getting longer lately. The average is about a month. But recently women and their families have been staying as long as five or six months, if they have four kids, little to no income, and nowhere else to go.

Athena’s House, particularly the kitchen, is showing the signs of two decades of wear and tear.

“We had to increase our intervention space. We had to increase the cost of meals.” And there was an increase in kitchen traffic. So, now the kitchen is in a state of disrepair, and needs urgent work.

“In our kitchen we’re very diverse. If one woman comes and she’s vegetarian we adapt the kitchen to her. If a woman comes and she needs kosher or halal, we always have that. The kitchen is adapted to the needs. The kitchen is essential because it’s part of the reason why a woman would stay at the shelter, not only to come, but to stay.”

There are always cooks of different cultures among the women who stay at Athena’s House, cooking together in the kitchen. “That’s the time that they share their stories, they share where they’ve come from, and bond. They break their isolation in that kitchen.”

Kitchen is community, Kamateros says. It’s where meals are prepared for the women and their children. It’s where some of the women cook meals. And some of those meals and stories make up the bulk of the book Recipes and Stories from Athena’s Kitchen. The book is “a glimpse of what happens in Athena’s Kitchen, and where these women were at, what their recipes are, and just hope for a better future for anybody that comes through that kitchen.”

The renovations will cost $100,000.

The fundraiser, A Seat at the Table, is being held on Wednesday, June 11, 5:30 to 8:00 p.m., at Portovino Ristorante in Decarie. There will be dinner and live music. Tickets are $150.00, with the money going directly to the kitchen renovation, “not only helping us feed people,” Kamateros explains, “but in essence, helping us nurture people during their time at Athena’s House.”

Tickets are available on The Shield of Athena’s Facebook and Instagram, or by calling 514-274-8117. Copies the book will be available, as well, although it can also be purchased on Shopify.

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Westmount woman waits two hours for ambulance after fall

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Dan Laxer
The Suburban

Last Thursday afternoon a woman fell outside the Manoir Westmount seniors’ residence on Sherbrooke Street West. A spokesperson from the Manoir confirmed that the woman, a resident of the Manoir, was fine, but that it did take Urgences Santé two hours to arrive on the scene.

According to another resident of the building, who had called The Suburban to report the incident, Westmount security was indeed on the scene. But the caller said no one was treating the woman.

Urgences-Santé spokesperson Jean-Pierre Rouleau admits that, yes, the wait time for an ambulance was long, but explained that there are protocols in place that determine how fast an ambulance will be dispatched.

Rouleau confirmed that Urgences-Santé had received the call about the woman at 4:28 p.m. on Thursday, May 29. The person who made the call was on the line with the medical dispatcher. At the time of the call, the woman was said to have had a bloody nose. Based on the phone call, the case was assessed as a “category 3”, meaning the person’s life is not in danger. According to its protocol – Urgences-Santé follows the Clawson Medical Priority Dispatch System (MPDS) – patients who are assessed at category 2, category 1, or category 0 are more urgent, and take precedence.

Last Thursday afternoon was busy for Urgences-Santé. An ambulance had been dispatched to the scene outside the Manoir, but had to be redirected to more urgent incidents. In fact, Rouleau tells The Suburban, there were four other higher-priority incidents at the same time.

Rouleau says they had kept regular contact with the individual who made the initial call in order to reassess the woman’s condition, which had remained stable, meaning her case was still considered category 3. At around 5:50 p.m. her condition worsened. At 5:54 she was reassessed as a category 1. First responders were then dispatched to the scene, arriving four minutes later, at 5:58.

The ambulance arrived fifteen minutes later, at 6:13 p.m.

“So, yes, it was long,” Rouleau said. “It’s sad. It was not the kind of situation we would wish for. But then again, we were in constant contact with the woman. Her life was not deemed to be in danger. We tried to send ambulances several times, but there were graver emergencies nearby. So those ambulances were redirected.”

The woman was eventually transported to hospital in what Urgences-Santé calls “non-urgent mode,” as her condition was stable. n

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Quebec taking Bill 40 decision to Supreme Court

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Dan Laxer
The Suburban

The Quebec government has announced that it will be taking the legal challenge of Bill 40 to the Supreme Court of Canada.

The decision came just weeks after the Quebec Court of Appeal ruled unanimously in favour of the Quebec English School Boards Association, saying that the law violates the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

Joe Ortona, President of the QESBA said, at the time, that they were “thrilled that our rights have been recognized” by the decision, and expressed the “hope that the government will decide not to take this crystal-clear decision of the Quebec Court of Appeal to the Supreme Court of Canada.”

However, the province’s Attorney General – Justice Minister Simon Jolin-Barrette – has decided to do just that.

The April decision of the Quebec Court of Appeal was “another big win in a long line of court decisions on Bill 40,” the QESBA said in a statement. The Bill has been before the courts since 2020.

“At a time when Quebec faces serious financial pressures,” Ortona said, “it is disappointing to see public funds used to continue a legal battle that so clearly infringes on the rights of minority communities.”

The QESBA says it remains committed to defending the rights of English-speaking Quebecers “to manage and control our education system.”

Ortona added “we will continue to stand up for our students, our parents, our staff, and the communities we serve, and we will continue our fundraising efforts to help offset the legal costs of this ongoing fight.” n

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Ensemble Montreal picks candidate for Loyola district

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By Dan Laxer
The Suburban

Ensemble Montréal has a candidate for the upcoming municipal election for borough councillor in the Loyola district of Côte-des-Neiges–Notre-Dame-de-Grâce.

Alexandre Teodoresco is known to the community as chair of the board of directors of Rendez-Vous NDG (RDV NDG), the group behind the social happenings in Girouard Park. He is also vice-president of strategic development and innovation at Les 7 Doigts and co-president of Entertain-AI.

Soraya Martinez Ferrada approached Teodoresco, knowing that he was involved in the techno-creative ecosystem in Montreal, as well as in his local community. She announced his candidacy at C2 Montreal, the annual networking conference that brings together business and creative leaders to explore ways to stimulate the economy. She was there to talk about the future of Artificial Intelligence in making the city more efficient. “Montreal must once again become a pioneer in innovation, especially since the loss of the Innovation District,” she said at the conference. “Artificial intelligence is a powerful tool to bring the city closer to its citizens and deliver services that meet their expectations. What I propose is an efficient, ambitious city focused on improving services to the population.”

Teodoresco admits that he is not a politician, that this will be his first foray into public service, and that there will be a learning curve. “But at the core I always wanted to have a positive impact on my community. I think this is the time,” he says, “I think we need to change how things are done for Montreal citizens.”

As things stand, CDN-NDG borough council has two Ensemble Montréal members – Stephanie Valenzuela and Sonny Moroz. Teodoresco is going up against incumbent Loyola councillor Despina Sourias.

“I’m feeling very confident with Soraya,” he told The Suburban. “She convinced me when she told me that innovation needs to be at the core of everything we do at the city and at the borough. This is the only way,” he adds, “that we can solve old problems with new solutions.”

He says that he has always been involved in his local community. “I’m very proud to be a resident of NDG for the past few years.” Working with RDV NDG made him realize that “there are more things that can unite us in NDG than divide us. You see French people laughing with English-speaking people. You see old and young dancing together.”

He says he would not have responded to a similar offer to join Projet Montréal. “I think that part of the problems that we’re facing today is due to the team that we have in place at city hall.” He says the current administration is passing “inertia” onto the next administration, whoever it may be. “A new team, a new vision, a new energy” is what’s needed, he says, “a different focus.”

Martinez Ferrada says Teodoresco “is exactly the kind of leader Montreal needs. He knows the field challenges, understands innovation’s potential, and knows how to bring communities together around meaningful projects. With him, Loyola will have a strong voice focused on the future.”

Innovation, Teodoresco says, is what’s missing. And he says that Martinez Ferrada, with her focus on innovation, is the right choice. n

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Province finds money for Maisonneuve-Rosemont

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Dan Laxer
The Suburban

Repairs and reconstruction on the Maisonneuve-Rosemont hospital is finally set to begin. The Quebec government says it has found the money, at least the first phase – the excavation work for the new parking lot. Health Minister Christian Dubé says more money will follow.

As reported in The Suburban, the CAQ government had been under fire after putting off what the hospital community says is urgently needed work. The hospital has been the subject of several media reports about its state of disrepair, and the presence of pests and vermin.

There had been protests by hospital staff, complaints from patients and families, and then, after last week’s violent storm, power to the hospital was knocked out, plunging the ICU and operating rooms into darkness, and affecting the hospital’s generation system.

The health ministry said it will find a way to redistribute $19 billion from other projects and put it toward starting the work at the hospital.

The hope is that another $85 million will be freed up to start the work on the parking lot.

Medical staff reacted negatively to the announcement that work would begin on the parking lot, as did members of the National Assembly. Vincent Marissal, Quebec Solidaire MNA for Rosemont, pointed out that $85 million represents a mere 1.5 percent of the hospital’s budget. But Dubé assured him that by the time phase one is complete, he would find the money for the rest of the work to be done, not just for the hospital, Dubé said, but other projects as well.

Soraya Martinez Ferrada, leader of Ensemble Montréal, was enthusiastic about the news that the urgently needed work would finally be going forward.

“It’s excellent news,” she said. “Montreal East has been waiting for this project for too long.” The Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital, the mayoral candidate added, will play a central role in the transformation of the east end, which “will be a priority for my administration.”

Martinez Ferrada highlighted the importance of the municipal administration being an active partner in the project. “Our administration will work in close collaboration with Quebec to move this project forward. “The Maisonnueve-Rosemont Hospital must remain a source of pride for Montreal East.”

The first phase should take about a year and a half. After that, Dubé said, the money will be there. n

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Housing activists occupy public spaces in West End

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Dan Laxer
The Suburban

As part of a week of action by FRAPRU (Front d’action populaire en réaménagement urbain), three housing groups in the west end of Montreal took turns occupying public land in different parts of the city.

The groups, POPIR- Comité Logement, the Citizen Action Committee of Verdun (CACV), and Regroupement Information Logement, spent the latter half of last week, May 21 to 24, occupying sites that have been “abandoned or threatened by private projects,” according to a press release. “All illustrate the same impasse: in the absence of an ambitious and sustainable Quebec program, social housing is slow to see the light of day while the rental crisis deepens.”

One of the properties occupied by the activists, at 4000 St. Patrick in Cote Saint Paul, is the site of the old Canada Power Boat Company, a firm that manufactured torpedo boats during World War II. Before that it was a World War I shipbuilding plant. It had also more recently served as a kind of artists’ community. And there is a sign from an old car detailing outfit.

But it’s now a decrepit, shattered, crumbling shell, empty save for a handful of squatters.

The City of Montreal expropriated the building in 2012 under then-mayor Gérald Tremblay (who would soon resign after corruption allegations).

The property, says Flav Choquette of POPIR-Comité logement, is 28,000 square meters, “as big as four football fields.” There are proposed projects for the lot that came out of a design competition held in 2021. The firm that won, Sid Lee Architecture, says it’s hoping to start work this year on Les Ateliers Cabot, named for a nearby street. The project is described as “an artistic, entrepreneurial and technological hub,” comprising art studios and exhibition space, a food hub with “a large greenhouse for urban agriculture, a cluster for tech companies as well as accommodation for artists and a hotel.”

“We don’t get it,” says Choquette. It’s an ambitious project that would have people living in the complex in the short term, which means, they said, that the infrastructure would be there for people to live in the neighbourhood long-term. And that is what the three agencies are calling for. “In the middle of the housing crisis and homelessness crisis, we need social housing.”

FRAPRU is calling on the provincial government to fund 10,000 new social housing units per year in order to double the number of social housing units within the next fifteen years. They also want to see programs in place that meet the needs of social housing tenants.

“Solutions exist,” says Choquette, “but they are hampered by the lack of stable public funding.”

Nicholas Di Penna-Harvest of Regroupement Information Logement agrees, saying the occupations are “to remind the Quebec government that the housing crisis is not inevitable.”

The three groups gathered with a group of local residents to talk about their needs and possible solutions. They also held a similar session over the weekend at the Ethel parking facility in Verdun, one of the last remaining sites, the groups say, available for social housing. “As long as this land remains empty,” says Camille Roffoli of CACV, “it’s Verdun families who are footing the bill.”

The week of action ended with an event that began at Joe Beef Park on Centre Street in the city’s Sud-Ouest sector.

On that same day the City of Montreal announced a series of investments amounting to more than $25 million over the next three years to address homelessness, including an $8 million increase for its Homelessness and Inclusive Environments program.

It also announced financial deals with groups who help homeless people avoid the courts, to help with social reintegration, as well as for investments for Accueil Bonneau, Action-Réinsertion, and the St. Michel Mission. n

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Suburban Mayors pleased with added powers in Quebec bill

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Dan Laxer
The Suburban

Outgoing Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante, and her successor as Projet Montréal leader, Luc Rabouin, are both reacting badly to the CAQ government’s bid to give the suburbs more power in the Communauté métropolitaine de Montréal (CMM).

The opposition Ensemble Montréal leader Soraya Martinez Ferrada, doesn’t like it any more than they do, but she is laying the blame squarely at Projet Montréal’s feet, saying they should have seen this coming.

The CMM is responsible for planning, coordinating, and financing the 82 municipalities, or the 4.3 million people, spread over its territory. The move is part of Bill 104, “An Act to amend various provisions in particular to follow up on certain requests from the municipal sector.” The bill was tabled last Wednesday by Municipal Affairs Minister Andrée Laforest.

Laforest says it’s about making the CMM more democratic, and getting the suburbs to work together.

Plante took to social media to denounce the plan. “The government must explain its true motivation for changing the governance of the metropolitan region today,” Plante posted on X, “knowing that in eight years, the City of Montreal has never used a casting vote.”

The mayor is the head of the CMM and as such has the right to cast the deciding vote in the event of a tie between the municipalities that make up the council. However, the provincial government says that the city no longer has a majority voice in the CMM. In 2006 it did indeed make up 51 percent of the CMM. But as of last year, due to urban sprawl, that has dipped to just 46 percent.

Until now the city’s majority consisted of 14 council seats out of 28. Under the new law, the city’s seat count would be 12 of 26.

“Instead of reforming democratic institutions without notice,” Plante added, “the government would benefit from working on the fundamental issues that are concentrated in its metropolis.”

Pointing out that between 2017 and 2024 the population across the entire CMM territory increased faster than that of the Greater Montreal area, Martinez Ferrada says that Projet Montréal has failed to create an enviable quality of life for residents. The resulting “urban exodus,” reads a news release put out by the party, “is very real and has accelerated under the (Projet Montreal) administration.

“This relative population loss is the result of short-sighted policies, which are catching up with us today.”

The Association of Suburban Municipalities, representing the agglomeration’s 15 independent municipalities, had high praise for the changes. It said last Thursday that, “this long-awaited reform responds to a recurring demand from suburban municipalities for more equitable and democratic metropolitan governance. Until now the status quo favoured an excessive concentration of power in the hands of the City of Montreal, to the detriment of other municipalities’ voices.”

Dollard des Ormeaux Mayor Alex Bottausci, a co-president of the ASM, said “this bill is a milestone for municipal democracy in Greater Montreal. It’s also a recognition that all citizens are entitled to fair representation in the decisions that affect their quality of life.”

The ASM adds that the same problems also plague the Montreal Agglomeration and it is hoping the Quebec government shows the same concern for the Agglo as its latest move shows for the CMM. n

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TMR’s Carlyle Elementary celebrates 105 years

Local Journalism Initiative / /

By Dan Laxer
The Suburban

Carlyle Elementary School, in the heart of Town of Mount Royal, recently celebrated its 105th birthday, last Tuesday, May 20, with a special event in the school gymnasium. Parents, students, and special guests enjoyed a lunch provided by Rotisserie Portugalia Montreal North (cousin to the original on Rachel near Clark Street.).

Carlyle was the first school to open in TMR, which itself was incorporated only eight years earlier.

“One hundred and five years ago today, this school opened its doors with a vision,” said Vice Principal Mario Benvenuto, addressing attendees, “to provide a nurturing environment where children could grow and learn and begin their journey towards becoming thoughtful, responsible citizens. And today that vision is still very important and very much alive within these walls.”

The school is still housed in its original building on the street from which it takes its name. It only had two classes in the beginning, with two professors teaching 26 students. Now it is an International Baccalaureate school with a full student body of 310.

Soon after its founding it changed, for a short time, to Mount Royal High School, but reverted back to Carlyle Elementary in 1950, when Mount Royal High School moved to a new location (MRHS was initially an Anglophone high school under the then Protestant School Board of Greater Montreal, but turned exclusively Francophone in 1985).

Three former principals were in attendance at the anniversary celebration. Don Houston had taught in an alternative school before moving to Carlyle for a short time from 2002 to 2003, after which he was called back to the alternative school where he’d worked before. “But I so regretted leaving this place,” he tells The Suburban. He had started his career in high schools, including a stint as vice principal at LaurenHill Academy. “Suddenly I’m in an elementary school! I had died and gone to heaven! The teachers were fantastic. The kids were fantastic.”

He felt he had to be there to celebrate its birthday. “I haven’t set foot in here since my days as principal,” he says. “I’m so glad it’s still going strong.”

Barbara Weir was principal of Carlyle from 1982 to 1991. “I loved it when I was here,” she says. “I had the best kids in the system.”

Dorris Beck, who succeeded Weir from 1991 to 2002, acknowledges that some things have changed since her tenure, “but the school has always had a good vibe,” she says. “It’s a lovely school.”

Joe Ortona, Chair of the English Montreal School Board, was also in attendance. “It really speaks to the sense of community over all these years and generations,” he said. “We’re really proud of the school and everything that it accomplishes.”

Carlyle recently won first prize in the Défi OSEntreprendre, a marketing competition hosted by HEC Montréal. n

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Dogs and bicycles can go on the REM through August

Local Journalism Initiative / / / ,

By Dan Laxer
The Suburban

Since last summer REM riders have been allowed to travel with their pets, under certain conditions, but only during specific times. As of last week, dogs are now permitted on the train at all times, but only during the summer months.

The Réseau express métropolitain announced earlier this month that starting on May 19 riders can now bring their dogs with them at all times. They must, of course, be leashed at all times, or in a cage or carrier.

Last August it allowed pets as part of a pilot project, but only outside of rush hour. Pets were not allowed Monday to Friday from 7:00 to 9:30 a.m., or from 3:30 to 6:00 p.m. The restrictions will come back into effect starting on August 18. (The REM will be closed from July 5 to August 17, and dogs will not be allowed on the bus shuttles that will be made available. Exceptions are in place for service dogs).

The rules and conditions dictate that all dogs must be muzzled, even while in the station, and must be leashed. The leash must be no more than 1.25 metres (or 49 inches). Only one dog per passenger is allowed, and they are not allowed on seats or benches.

The REM cautions that some of their stations – notably Du Quartier and Gare Centrale – are located in buildings that do not belong to the Réseau. The policies of these buildings’ owners would apply, for instance, if pets are allowed only in certain areas. It is up to travellers to be informed ahead of time.

The same rules and dates have applied to bicycles since last August, and the same allowances will also apply through August 17. In other words, bicycles will be allowed on REM trains. The rules are that cyclists may not ride their bicycles either in the REM stations or cars. Riders are only allowed to park their bicycles in racks provided, and are not permitted to park them outside of the REM’s operating hours.

REM riders with bicycles must be at least 14 years old or accompanied by an adult.

There can be no more than two bicycles on an REM car.

Cyclists must let other riders get on and off the train first, and must hold their bicycles securely and not lean them against the car, the seats, doors, etc.

The rules apply regardless of the style of bike – bicycle, electric cycle, scooter, unicycle, or tricycle. Gas-powered scooters are not allowed. Folding scooters are fine as long as they don’t disturb anyone or cause a safety issue. n

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West Island school bus driver fired after months of parent complaints

Local Journalism Initiative / / / ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

For much of this school year, parents whose elementary school children ride a shared West Island bus route say they were left scrambling—and sometimes in tears—because of the actions of a Transco bus driver. Their stories, shared with The Suburban in exclusive interviews on condition of anonymity, outline months of fear, frustration, and a lack of accountability that stretched from September until the driver’s dismissal in April.

Safety was a constant concern for families, Jessica explained “She blew through stop signs and sometimes skipped our stop altogether.” Rachel also witnessed dangerous driving. “She’d clip curbs and whip past houses. There was even a time she rear-ended a car, and we only found out about it from other parents,” she said. Mark recalled, “My own son was afraid because the driver would speed and slam on the brakes.”

Parents described how the driver threatened to slam on the brakes if children stood up—and sometimes followed through. “She actually did it with the whole bus full of kids,” Jessica said.

Reliability was another major issue. “There were days the bus would come so early or late that my daughter was left waiting outside in minus 25 weather,” Jessica said. Rachel added, “I had to wait with my baby for over thirty minutes, and sometimes the bus didn’t show at all.” Mark noted, “A friend’s child kept missing school because the bus was unpredictable.”

Verbal abuse and inappropriate comments left many children feeling targeted. “The driver told the kids nobody wanted them. She was always yelling at them to shut up,” Jessica said. Mark shared, “She once paid another kid to snitch on my son, who’s on the autism spectrum. He couldn’t understand why he was being singled out.” Rachel said, “She’d swear in front of the kids and talk about smoking. My son was told to watch movies that weren’t for children.”

Winter seemed to escalate things. “She’d ask kids if they’d gained weight if they had trouble getting over snowbanks,” Jessica said.

The parents say they felt they had no real choice but to keep their children on the bus, despite their concerns. For many, work schedules made driving impossible; some had younger children at home or other obligations that made alternative arrangements unworkable. Even so, some families found themselves considering switching schools just to avoid the daily stress.

Communication with Transco and the school board, parents say, was nearly nonexistent. “We called and emailed, but no one got back to us,” Mark said. Rachel added, “We started a group chat with other parents just to keep each other updated.”

The stress was enough that some families considered drastic changes. “I was scared to let my youngest ride the bus,” Rachel said. “There were weeks when I just drove my kids myself.” Mark said, “My son started sitting near the front out of fear and eventually didn’t want to ride the bus at all.”

The driver remained on the route until April, despite months of complaints. “School’s almost over now, and it took months to get action. All we wanted was for our kids to feel safe getting to school,” Jessica said.

Parents are left wondering why it took so long for anyone to listen. The Suburban reached out to Transco for comment but did not receive a response as of press time. n

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Beaconsfield Mayor Bourelle will not seek a fourth term

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Georges Bourelle, who has served as Beaconsfield’s mayor since 2013, announced that he will retire from public office this November, choosing not to seek a fourth term.

Bourelle shared the news at Tuesday night’s council meeting, later explaining that after discussions with his family and careful reflection on his personal priorities, he felt the time was right to step aside. “It’s been three terms, 12 years, and I think it’s time for me to pass it on to the next generation,” Bourelle told The Suburban.

Bourelle’s three-term tenure saw Beaconsfield take on a series of environmental, infrastructure, and fiscal initiatives. His administration prioritized stable finances, pointing to a 13.5% reduction in the real local tax burden compared to inflation, even as the city’s regional contribution to the Montreal agglomeration increased by more than 58% over the past twelve years.

One of the defining issues of Bourelle’s leadership was Beaconsfield’s legal dispute with Montreal over cost-sharing for regional services such as police, fire, water, and public transit. In 2020, Beaconsfield became the only demerged municipality on the island to pursue court action, arguing that the cost-sharing structure created inequities between Montreal and the suburban cities.

In February, Beaconsfield increased its claim against Montreal to $20 million. Bourelle has repeatedly voiced frustration that the city is “simply contributing as a cash cow to the agglomeration, to the City of Montreal, to help balance their budgets.” He also criticized the provincial government for not stepping in to address the funding imbalance. Beaconsfield recently joined 14 other reconstituted municipalities in a coordinated legal strategy over a new cost-sharing decision.

Environmental protection was another priority for Bourelle. He delivered on a long-standing commitment to protect Angell Woods, resulting in the preservation of one of Montreal’s largest public natural areas. In 2016, Beaconsfield introduced incentive-based waste collection, which has since halved the city’s landfill tonnage.

During his time in office, infrastructure was upgraded throughout the city, including the expansion and renovation of the Recreation Centre, the reconstruction of the arena, improvements to park facilities, and maintenance of core systems like water and sewer pipes.

Bourelle also cited the “Imagine Centennial” project—a major redevelopment of Beaconsfield’s waterfront and Centennial Park—as a legacy initiative. The project’s planned multipurpose cultural centre, designed by Lemay, was recently awarded gold at the 2024 World Architecture News Awards in the “Future Projects” category.

Bourelle was vocal about the importance of respectful civic debate, noting in his farewell speech that restoring order to council meetings had been a key focus after a previous period of tension.

Before entering municipal politics, Bourelle worked in the business sector. His extensive experience helped him manage Beaconsfield’s services, budgets, and human resources. “Municipal politics is really about managing services. It’s managing a budget. It’s managing human resources. That’s something my background prepared me well for,” he said.

Bourelle said he expects to miss public service, though the reality may not set in until after November. “When I retired from business, I joined boards, I ran development programs, and then I became mayor. So I have not had a real period of asking myself, ‘What do I do today?’ That will happen at the end of this year.” He thanked his council colleagues, city staff, volunteers, and especially his family for their support throughout his time in office.

Bourelle will remain mayor until Beaconsfield holds municipal elections in November. n

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Police seek witnesses after hit-and-run leaves cyclist critically injured

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

On Saturday evening in Rigaud, a hit-and-run collision sent two cyclists to hospital and left a family pleading for community help in finding the driver responsible.

The crash occurred shortly before 5 p.m. on Chemin du Haut-de-la-Chute, near Chemin St-Thomas. According to Quebec provincial police (SQ), the suspect vehicle is described as a black GMC Terrain with noticeable damage to the front. Police say the driver struck the two cyclists and fled the scene without offering assistance.

A family member of the victims turned to social media, sharing that both parents were out riding together when they were hit. “First and foremost, they are alive—my mom has been discharged from the hospital and my dad is in very serious condition but he’s expected to live,” their son wrote in a widely shared post. He urged anyone with information to come forward, emphasizing that even the smallest detail could help.

The SQ is asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident, or who may have seen a black GMC Terrain with front-end damage in the area, to contact their criminal information center at 1-800-659-4264.

Residents of Hudson, Rigaud, and St-Lazare are being encouraged to share the family’s message and help spread the word. As investigators work to piece together what happened, the family and local authorities hope someone will come forward with the information needed to bring answers—and accountability.

Anyone with information is asked to call the SQ tip line at 1-800-659-4264.

Police seek witnesses after hit-and-run leaves cyclist critically injured Read More »

Disabled man petitions for accessible transit in West Island

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Raymond Analytis knows what it means to depend on Montreal’s adapted transport system. Like thousands of Montrealers living with mobility challenges, he relies on the Société de transport de Montréal (STM) for accessible minibuses and adapted vehicles—the only way for many to get to work, attend social activities, and reach vital medical appointments. The STM’s paratransit service is available 365 days a year, staffed by drivers trained in first aid and CPR, who know their riders by name and understand their needs.

This sense of security is now in jeopardy and Analytis has made a mission of travelling to busy West Island locations including Fairview Pointe-Claire and the Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue boardwalk to collect signature.

The STM has announced plans to privatize its paratransit operations in 2026, turning over responsibility to private companies as part of a cost-cutting strategy. For Analytis, who uses a wheelchair, the threat feels personal. “Any private company that takes over will be there to make money. We’ve already seen what happens elsewhere—kids missing school, people left waiting, appointments missed. During holidays, we might not even be able to go out,” Analytis told The Suburban.

Analytis’s concerns are echoed by many Montrealers who live with reduced mobility. They worry that privatization will bring unreliable service, higher costs, and a loss of the care and familiarity that comes with the current public drivers. “The STM drivers know us, and they care. With privatization, there’s no guarantee that level of service continues,” Analytis said. In other cities where adapted transport has been privatized, riders have reported missed pickups, late arrivals, and confusion over who is responsible when things go wrong. Some have even struggled to get to work or school on time, or access essential medical care.

Determined to protect adapted public transit, Analytis has taken matters into his own hands, focusing his efforts across the West Island. He has collected more than 2,400 signatures personally, adding to over 14,000 gathered citywide in a petition calling for the STM to keep paratransit public. The petition is formally addressed to a wide range of officials and leaders:

Christine Fréchette, Quebec Minister of Immigration, Francization and Integration, Geneviève Guilbault, Quebec Deputy Premier and Minister of Transport and Sustainable Mobility, Christian Dubé, Quebec Minister of Health and Social Services, Lionel Carmant, Quebec Minister Responsible for Social Services, Suzanne Roy, Quebec Minister of Municipal Affairs, Chantal Rouleau, Quebec Minister Responsible for Social Solidarity and Community Action, Maïté Claude Léonard, Chief Executive Officer of STM, Benoît Gendron, Director General of the Autorité régionale de transport métropolitain (ARTM), Sonia Bélanger, Quebec Minister Responsible for Seniors, Éric Alan Caldwell, Chair, STM Board of Directors, Valérie Plante, Mayor of Montreal

The petition’s message is simple but urgent: privatization would undermine a service that thousands depend on for independence and dignity. Its signatories are asking city and provincial leaders, as well as STM management, not to abandon people living with mobility challenges. They highlight that the public system provides safe, reliable, and compassionate service—qualities they fear will be lost if profit becomes the priority.

Protests and public meetings have already taken place, with community members voicing their concerns about access, affordability, and respect. Analytis plans to keep collecting signatures and raising awareness. For him, the fight to keep STM’s adapted transport public is about more than just getting from one place to another—it’s about the right to participate fully and independently in the life of the city. n

Disabled man petitions for accessible transit in West Island Read More »

12th annual cancer care Shindig held in Baie D’Urfé

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

More than 120 people packed the Baie D’Urfé Curling Club recently for the 12th annual Shindig, a fundraiser that has become a signature event for cancer care support in the West Island.

The night was spearheaded by Jim Morrison, whose dedication to collecting bottles and organizing community initiatives has raised over $700,000 for West Island Community Shares (WICC) since he began his efforts twelve years ago.

All proceeds from the Shindig and Morrison’s year-round bottle collection campaigns are donated to WICC, where the funds are directed to cancer care for local residents.

The motivation behind Morrison’s work is personal: he lost both his father and uncle to cancer within three months of each other, a loss that spurred him to take action. “After losing both my father and uncle, I knew I had to do something,” Morrison said to The Suburban. “It’s not just about collecting bottles, but about building something meaningful together.”

The Shindig has grown from a small gathering into a highly anticipated community event. This year, guests enjoyed music from the Electric Street Band and a meal courtesy of Cunningham’s Pub, with owner Jim Beauchamp playing a hands-on role both behind the scenes and as a supporter of the cause.

Dan Montpetit, one of Morrison’s longtime helpers, described the effort involved in supporting the initiative. “I found out he was doing that and I wanted to help out because it’s a good cause. I don’t work anymore and he needs help. He brings many people to this event,” Montpetit told The Suburban. Recently, he drove 1,087 bottles to Vankleek Hill, since certain bottle returns are not yet accepted in Quebec.

Melanie James, a member of a local Gin Club, told The Suburban that her group routinely saves bottles for Morrison’s fundraising. “We are appreciative of everything Jim does and want to help raise money as much as possible for his cause.”

The event also drew the support of West Island Community Shares Executive Director Meagan Somerville and Baie D’Urfé Mayor Heidi Ektvedt. “For the price of dinner, we contribute to a great cause,” Ektvedt said to The Suburban, highlighting the accessibility of giving back through community events.

Morrison was quick to acknowledge the many contributors who make the Shindig possible, including Jim Beauchamp, Robert Read, Greg Mate, Wayne Clasper, Colette Prieur, Patty Ciccone, Kevin Raftery, and the Electric Street Band.

The final fundraising total from this year’s Shindig will be announced later this week. For Morrison and those who attend, the event remains a testament to what can be accomplished when a community comes together for a cause that touches so many. n

12th annual cancer care Shindig held in Baie D’Urfé Read More »

The Shaar unites Montrealers in vigil for slain Israeli diplomats

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Joel Goldenberg
The Suburban

Montrealers turned out in large numbers outside the Israeli consulate at Westmount Square Thursday to mourn victims of terrorism Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim, who both worked for the Israeli embassy in Washington, D.C.

The two were killed, allegedly by 31-year-old pro-Palestinian radical Elias Rodriguez, Wednesday night as they left a Jewish event held in Washington. The two victims were about to be engaged to be married.

The vigil in Westmount, organized by Congregation Shaar Hashomayim, had been quickly organized and successfully drowned out less than a half-dozen anti-Israel protesters who were moved from the event area by the SPVM.

Before the vigil, Israeli Consul-General Paul Hirschson told The Suburban that May 21 was a “terrible day for the Israeli Foreign Ministry.

“For over 20 years, we didn’t lose anybody. Now we lost two people on the same night.”

Hirschson also advised the Montreal community to “be aware, be on guard, see what’s going on around you.

“We lower our heads in mourning and sadness, but we hold our heads up high in pride with the fact we know we’re on the right side of history!”

Rabbi Adam Scheier of Shaar Hashomayim Synagogue and Rabbi Reuben Poupko of Beth Israel Beth Aaron Synagogue both said the killing came as no surprise.

“We’re here in anger, sadness and pain!” Rabbi Scheier said. “This young couple was on the cusp of a life together, of building a family and a home! These were beautiful souls who dreamed about peace and hope for everyone! These were peacemakers slaughtered in cold blood!”

The Rabbi added that “no one can say we didn’t see this coming!

“It’s not a surprise when we stand in this very place, where the [anti-Israel protesters] continue to yell slogans of hatred, genocidal slogans, wishing the destruction of another people!…Shame, shame on them!”

“Shame, shame!” the vigil attendees yelled at the nearby protesters.

Rabbi Poupko asked how anyone could be surprised at the murders “after 19 months of listening to murderous chants across North America, on every campus and in every city!

“We told you for months that those chants are calls for violence. That ‘free Palestine!’ means a country free of its Jews, it means ‘kill the Jews’; ‘globalizing Intifada’ means kill the Jews and, on Wednesday night, that man proved it!

The Rabbi added angrily, “we’ve told you, Montreal, for 20 months now, what those chants mean!

“We told the Mayor, who hasn’t listened to a word! We told the Mayor, protect your city! And she sits in her office and does nothing!”

Rabbi Poupko also criticized Prime Minister Mark Carney, who recently joined France’s Emmanuel Macron and Britain’s Keir Starmer in a one-sided statement against Israel.

“We have a Prime Minister who doesn’t have the right to say the words ‘State of Israel’! One word to the Prime Minister of Canada! Stop talking! You’re not hurting us, you’re bringing shame and dishonour to Canada when you open your mouth!”

Rabbi Poupko also asked the protesters where Hamas and Hezbollah terrorist leaders who attacked Israel are now.

“You want to know where they are?! Check your pagers!”

The Rabbi said those who support Israel “know what we stand for!

“We’ve heard the howls of the hatred, of the jackals and you know what, we’re still here!”

Concordia student Ashley Steinwald slammed the media for its coverage of Israel, especially since the Oct. 7, 2023 Hamas terrorist attack on Israel.

The murders “are what antisemitism looks like in 2025!” she said.

“And it’s not just coming from extremists! It’s coming from our streets, our schools, our so-called institutions of higher learning and every media outlet that chooses to twist the truth instead of telling it! We got here because the media spent the last seven months and honestly the last 75 years spreading lies about Israel and the Jews! The consequences are fatal! Libellous propaganda is not just words, it is bullets!”

The vigil also included songs sung by Nathaniel Abitbol and prayers sung by Cantor Yitzhak Epstein. n

The Shaar unites Montrealers in vigil for slain Israeli diplomats Read More »

Young writers recognized at CSL Margles contest

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Joel Goldenberg
The Suburban

The second annual Roslyn and Max Margles Young Writers Contest, honouring aspiring authors and presented by the Côte Saint-Luc Public Library and the Quebec Writers’ Federation (QWF), was held recently at Côte St. Luc’s Aquatic and Community Centre.

In 2022, the Max Margles Children’s Library at the Bernard Lang Civic Centre was inaugurated, following a $500,000 donation by his wife Roslyn Margles for children’s library programming.

On hand for this year’s event were Roslyn Margles, Mayor Mitchell Brownstein and councillors Mike Cohen and Dida Berku, CSL Public Library director Janine West, CSL children’s librarian Bronwen Cathey, Lori Schubert of the QWF; and, back this year, contest judges Marie Louise Gay, a children’s book writer and illustrator from Montreal; Anne Renaud, a children’s author who writes in English and French; and Paul (P.J.) Bracegirdle, a Montreal-based writer and artist.

West told the very well attended event that her own children grew up participating in the McIntyre writing contest, inspired by former Westmount Mayor Peter McIntyre.

“It has been my dream to bring something similar to CSL and finally it has become a reality,” she added.

Brownstein said he hopes the contest will “be the beginning of a longstanding CSL tradition and…every year we gather like this to celebrate and reward their efforts.

“To our young authors, each of you has brought your stories to life with heart, humour and originality, and that’s something truly special.”

Cohen, who has the library portfolio on council, pointed out Margles’ contribution to the library, $500,000, was the “largest donation in the history of our community.

“Not only is she a donor, but she’s a doer, very involved in our library, very involved in our programming.”

Margles herself said she was happy there were so many participants in the contest.

“Regarding my donation, I had a stipulation, that the library was to establish a Young Writers Contest — that’s how important it was to me.”

The top winners in the Grades 3 and 4 category were :

• In first place, Matti Gonzalez-Idan for L’Aventure de Draven, praised as a “highly creative story full of humour, imagination and clever wordplay.”

• In second place, Sarah Israel and Adèle Mechache for Le club du journal, praised as “an imaginative and well-structured story with strong character development.”

Honourable mentions went to Madison Rappaport for Stowaway Cat; Cordelia Carrier-Sydor for Bluebell’s Challenge, the sequel to last year’s first place-winning story, Bluebell’s Problem; and Jacob Segal for L’aventure de Rob.

The Grades 5 and 6 winners were:

• In first place, Aderes Zigman for The Naked Cupcake, praised as a “joyful, creative and whimsical story that cleverly plays with perspective and self-image.”

• In second place, Anastasia Maria Ion for Les Aventures de Sophie, praised as a “story magnificently written and well structured with a rich vocabulary and an endearing heroine.”

• Honourable mentions went to Naveen Dosaj for The Gold Medal Game, second-time winner Izzy Druckman for the biography Sheldon Rubin and Nona Morakabaty for Natation avec nations. n

Young writers recognized at CSL Margles contest Read More »

Local leaders urge Canada to seek IHRA presidency

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Joel Goldenberg
The Suburban

Numerous political and community leaders from Montreal and the rest of Canada have signed onto a letter by United Against Hate Canada’s Marvin Rotrand urging Prime Minister Mark Carney to have Canada seek the presidency of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance for 2027 or 2028.

Numerous countries, provinces and cities, though not Montreal, have signed on to the IHRA’s definition of antisemitism. Israel currently holds the presidency of the IHRA until Feb. 26, 2026, followed by Argentina until the end of February 2027.

Some of the notable local signatories to the UAH letter include Rotrand himself, former MPs Marlene Jennings and Frank Baylis, Côte St. Luc Mayor Mitchell Brownstein, Kirkland Mayor Michel Gibson, CDN-NDG councillor Sonny Moroz, English Montreal School Board chairman Joe Ortona and EMSB commissioner Julien Feldman; CJAD broadcasters Andrew Carter, Elias Makos and Aaron Rand, and many others.

The letter from UHA Canada asks Carney, during the June 23 IHRA plenary session in Jerusalem, to “mandate our delegation to alert the plenary of Canada’s desire to seek the Presidency of IHRA for 2027 or 2028.”

The letter adds that the Canadian government’s recent National Forum to Combat Antisemitism was a “welcome reaction to an unprecedented wave of antisemitism that Canada has witnessed over the last 18 months.”

Rotrand’s letter also noted Carney’s campaign promise to “fight the horrifying rise in hate and protect our communities, including by increasing funding to the Canada Community Security Program and introducing legislation to make it a criminal offence to intentionally and willfully obstruct access to any place of worship, schools, and community centres; and a criminal offence to willfully intimidate or threaten those attending services at these locations.”

While UAH welcomed these promised measures, the organization and the letter’s signatories added that it believes “they can be reinforced by strengthening Canada’s presence within IHRA and launching the process to ultimately obtain the Presidency.

‘We strongly believe that having Canada act as Chair will aid stakeholders in our country to significantly advance Holocaust remembrance, combat Holocaust denial and distortion while building effective tools to blunt the unprecedented wave of hate targeting Jews in Canada.”

Canada making its interest known “in obtaining the Presidency known at this June’s plenary is an important step,” the signatories wrote.

“Canada must build a bid that will win the confidence of IHRA’s members so that when the plenary next year chooses the presiding nations for 2027 and 2028, we will be solidly in the running. Making known the support of civil society for this proposal can only help to move it forward. Announcing our intentions this June alerts the world that we will do whatever it takes to blunt antisemitism.” n

Local leaders urge Canada to seek IHRA presidency Read More »

Ville St. Laurent parking issue erupts again

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Joel Goldenberg
The Suburban

The issue of parking restrictions installed in the last couple of years in St. Laurent reared its head again at the May council meeting, with some pleas and colourful language from residents of the Satim group of streets.

The no parking rule in the area applies for eight hours each on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. from April 1 to Dec. 1.

Samuel Feldman said he and other residents are very unhappy with the parking signs that were installed. He and his father Nicholas presented an 80-name petition objecting to the signage.

“This is a quiet, residential, pedestrian, low traffic neighbourhood,” Samuel pointed out. “The signs have caused complete undue burden on all of our residents. We keep getting tickets and have to remind ourselves to move our cars across the street. It’s become a disaster at this point. This seems like an arbitrary, disguised law to give us tickets as a punitive measure.”

Mayor Alan DeSousa said the measure was not meant to be punitive, and is to allow for street cleaning. Feldman added that the street cleaners are not always present on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Councillor Vana Nazarian later confirmed that the area previously had no signage.

“It’s just tickets after tickets! It’s doing more harm than good,” Samuel said.

DeSousa said the rule is not only for street cleaning, but for work Hydro Québec or Energir may have to do.

“The alternative would have been to squeeze you even more by putting alternative parking there, where you would have one side of the street every day where there would be completely no parking, the way it is on my street, on St. Germain.”

Nicholas Feldman was angrier, saying the street was built in the mid-1980s “and there were never any street signs there.

“Carré Satim is a dead end street! Nobody goes there unless you live there!….It was a beautiful street, now you have posts every 15 feet! It looks so ugly! It’s awful! This is not NDG or Thimens! You polluted the area with these metal posts! It’s never been like that in 40 years! All of a sudden we have these great ideas to make people miserable! Everybody signed the petition — they’re all pissed off at you! What’s going on here?!….I’m getting tickets right, left and centre!”

DeSousa said the borough is not trying to disfigure the Satim area.

“We had a choice as to what is the appropriate markings so that people know” the rules, the Mayor added.

“People are very angry with you, including me!” Nicholas Feldman said.

“That was not the intent,” DeSousa said. “Wherever you live in St. Laurent, there are rules with regards to public parking.”

Nazarian said she welcomed the petition.

“We have a responsibility to look at it, to consider it and to try to find solutions, if we are able to do it. There are some areas where we were able to make some changes, and others we weren’t able, but now that you’ve brought it up in person and brought a petition, our staff will consider it.” n

Ville St. Laurent parking issue erupts again Read More »

Antisemitic posts by Quebec med school applicants taken down

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By: Joel Goldenberg
The Suburban

Antisemitic, misogynistic and racist social media posts by Quebec medical school applicants were taken down last week by the Discord platform, not long after B’nai Brith Canada and a local doctor’s associations revealed and objected to their content.

Discord says it takes down hateful content. Discord has also been the subject of a lawsuit by the New Jersey attorney general, which alleged the platform “recklessly exposes children to graphic violent content, sexual abuse and exploitation,” The New York Times reported late last month. The company disputes that lawsuit’s claims, saying Discord’s tools make the site safer.

As reported this week by The Suburban, B’nai Brith Canada revealed May 8 that the public Discord server called Med serveur on the Internet had become a “cesspool of antisemitism, racism, misogyny, and hate. The medical students have since switched to the Discord server ADMISSION MED QC 2024.

“For months, a number of aspiring doctors openly posted Holocaust denial, praise for the ‘Final Solution,’ hurled racial slurs, glorified terrorism, and degraded women,” B’nai Brith officials said. “This content wasn’t buried. It was shared in open channels, visible to over 1,400 members. Almost no one spoke up. These aren’t anonymous trolls. They are future doctors. And this kind of hate doesn’t stay online. It follows them into classrooms, clinics, and operating rooms.”

B’ani Brith Canada added that “silence enables this rot to spread. Institutions must act—now. Hate like this has no place in healthcare—or anywhere in Canadian society.”

Some of the offending posts included “the Islamic State of Quebec,” “they are just Negroes”, “imagine a woman under antidepressant and f–king Ritalin who [performs?] surgery on you. She’ll vomit mid-surgery because it’s ‘too stressful’ and she needs a ‘mental health break’” and “Don’t worry. You can trust me as long as you don’t have kippa under your wig.” There were also cartoon depictions of Jews reminiscent of those in the Nazi publication Der Sturmer.

Lior Bibas of the Association of Jewish Doctors of Quebec stated after he learned of the existence of the posts, “If these accounts are really from future physicians, we need an immediate investigation to identify those responsible and ensure they are not admitted to our medical schools or allowed to practice medicine. It is essential that the institutions involved act swiftly, transparently, and decisively to restore public trust.”

A 106-page report that circulated amongst Jewish doctors alleged that at least one Dawson College student and a current Quebec medical student posted some of the messages. The Dawson administration is reportedly looking into the matter. Quebec Higher Education Minister Pascale Déry’s office also denounced the posts. n

Antisemitic posts by Quebec med school applicants taken down Read More »

Holocaust education more essential than ever says survivor

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Joel Goldenberg
The Suburban

Educating Quebec students about the Holocaust is even more essential in the context of surging global antisemitism, said Holocaust survivor Eva Kuper, member of a recent panel on Holocaust education.

The panel discussion at the Gelber Centre was moderated and organized by D’Arcy McGee MNA Elisabeth Prass, along with the Jewish Public Library, and featured Kuper, also a Montreal Holocaust Museum associate; Foundation for Genocide Education communications director Marcy Bruck and Montreal Holocaust Museum assistant executive director Audrey Licop. Also on hand were English Montreal School Board chairman Joe Ortona and commissioner Julien Feldman.

Kuper said Holocaust education is “that much more urgent” now.

“It’s not only to explain and teach about the Holocaust, but it’s very urgent to look at the contemporary issues that we’re dealing with today and to, maybe not compare them, but juxtapose them against what people saw before the Holocaust happened.”

Kuper added that there is a perception, “especially amongst the people who have not had the background and just arrived at the museum, that there was no Holocaust on Monday, but on Tuesday there was a Holocaust.

“That’s not how it happened. There were many, many signs and many of the signs we see today are precursors of what people saw in the 1930s, and that is a very, very dangerous place to be. We have to adapt our teaching, connect the historical context of that time to the context of today in the way we present the material and in the way we tell our story. It emphasizes the lessons of the Holocaust in terms of the hatred and xenophobia, racism — all these things are active today as they were active then.”

Bruck, on the subject of adjusting Holocaust education for today, said that universalizing the Holocaust is important.

“The important thing is to emphasize the Jewish aspect of the Holocaust. Of course, students, when they give us a reaction afterwards, say ‘it’s terrible what happened to the Jews,’ but do they understand that this was specifically targeted to Jews — yes, other groups were targeted as well — but the Final Solution was the Final Solution of the Jews. This is something the students really have to understand, and to [also] be able to understand more what’s happening in contemporary society.” n

Holocaust education more essential than ever says survivor Read More »

CSLDS presents The Wizard of Oz

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By: Joel Goldenberg
The Suburban

Wicked, the “prequel” to The Wizard of Oz, has been getting the lion’s share of attention lately in Wizard lore, owing to the highly successful Broadway musical and last year’s movie spectacle.

But the original L. Frank Baum Wizard of Oz book and, especially, 1939 movie endure, especially as the latter has been a TV perennial since the 1950s. (Fun fact: This was one of the very, very few programs CBS presented in colour in the 1950s.)

Now, the wonders of The Wizard of Oz can be seen live and in person by audience members of all ages. The Côte St. Luc Dramatic Society is presenting the classic at the Harold Greenspon Auditorium, at the Bernard Lang Civic Centre from May 29 to June 15 — 17 performances. The cast is multigenerational and includes six children, as well as elements of puppetry. The co-producers are Mayor Mitchell Brownstein, and councillors Andee Shuster and Mitch Kujavsky.

Brownstein, who plays the Wizard, says that “in a world that often feels uncertain, The Wizard of Oz reminds us that intelligence, compassion, and courage are the keys to finding strength—not only within ourselves, but in the power of community. This heartwarming journey is exactly the kind of story we need right now; one that inspires us to believe in each other and the magic of home.”

Anisa Cameron, artistic director of the CSLDS and director and choreographer of this production, told The Suburban that The Wizard of Oz has “been on our wish list for quite some time, and this felt like the perfect moment to bring it to life.

“This past year marked the 85th anniversary of the beloved film, a milestone that reminded us just how timeless and meaningful this story continues to be. At the same time, Wicked has captured the hearts of a new generation, proving how deeply the world that began with L. Frank Baum’s book still resonates with audiences today. We also wanted to offer something truly magical for audiences of all ages—a show that families can enjoy together, filled with imagination, heart, and, of course, courage.”

Cameron also enthusiastically pointed out to The Suburban that the CSLDS production will have the same amount of music, and other elements, as the 1939 movie.

“We won the rights to The Royal Shakespeare Company version of The Wizard of Oz – which has all of the iconic characters, storyline and music you know and love from the film,” she explained.

Asked if the play will closely follow the movie, or if there will be any differences, Cameron responded that “the live show has a few changes, but for the most part is exactly in line with the film. There is a number from the 1939 film that ended up on the cutting room floor called The Jitterbug that will be back in our show. It’s a really fun song and dance sequence!”

The 1939 movie has many special effects — how will this be handled for a stage production?

“Lots and lots of theatre magic,” Cameron says. “We have a very small but mighty space, and I think we do a pretty good job of transforming it for each production. We will be using puppets again this year, designed by Lily Lachapelle and all audiences should take note there will be liberal use of stage smoke and lighting effects. We have a tremendous team of designers who support us in our productions.”

We also asked if the CSLDS would eventually present Wicked itself.

“Absolutely, if the rights ever come available,” Cameron told The Suburban. “Wicked is still playing on Broadway and the West End, so other, smaller companies don’t have access until the rights houses are allowed to sell to all of us who are eagerly waiting.”

For more information and to purchase tickets, go to www.csldramaticsociety.com. n

CSLDS presents The Wizard of Oz Read More »

Jewellery distraction scam hits CSL seniors

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Joel Goldenberg
The Suburban

A plethora of scams in the west end and West Island, and across the province, in which people are robbed of their jewellery through distraction crimes, has also hit Côte St. Luc.

A senior resident there had his Rolex watch — valued at between $20,000 and $25,000 — stolen in broad daylight.

The resident’s daughter, a CSL resident who did not want her name or that of her parents used, said the incident took place May 11 on Kellert, right near Hebrew Academy.

The Suburban was told by the daughter that her parents, 76 and 78, had returned from a trip to Costco and were tired.

“As they were finished unloading the car, a couple in a car suddenly stopped right in front of them,” the daughter wrote in an email to The Suburban. “The woman leaned out and, without so much as a proper hello, asked, ‘Where can I find an Arabic supermarket?’ My mom replied with a bit of confusion, ‘Adonis?’ The woman said, ‘Yes! My mom started explaining where the store was to the man that was in the driver’s seat.”

The daughter added that while her mother was giving directions, a woman who appeared to be wearing a hijab approached her father and began to cry, claiming her own father was very sick, “like a scene straight out of a scammer’s training manual.

“Then she told my dad she has her dying father’s watch and begged him to bless it. My dad, being decent and probably caught off guard, went along. She literally took his real watch off his wrist and slipped on some cheap plastic garbage like it was nothing. She even lowered his head as if she giving him some spiritual blessing — all while robbing him blind.” The parents then discovered the Rolex was gone.

The daughter told The Suburban that the police told her “this has happened multiple times across the city.

“When I asked why they haven’t been caught yet, the answer was simple — not enough evidence and no opportunity to catch them in the act. So I have to ask… is our city even safe anymore?”

In a phone interview, the daughter said these scammers are targeting elderly people, “which is very sad.

“I was more disappointed in the police, in their reaction. I understand they have a lot going on with the rallies going on all the time. Montreal is not the same, and CSL is being threatened too. I grew up here, and we never had these issues. It’s scary. This time, they didn’t hurt my parents, tomorrow, they’re going to start hurting if somebody refuses to give.”

The daughter said members of the community should be wary of people asking for directions and breaking down in fake tears, and called for more security measures in CSL.

Mayor Mitchell Brownstein pointed out to The Suburban that CSL has volunteer Citizens On Patrol (vCOPS), Public Security, as well as Station 9 police, “which is more than other cities, so our city is safer than most.”

CSL Public Safety Director Philip Chateauvert told The Suburban that “given our significant elderly population and our priority on safety, we have instructed CSL staff to remain especially vigilant during patrols.

“Mayor Brownstein is right to point out that with Public Security (PS) and vCOP, we have put ourselves in the best position to maintain a safe and peaceful community. I must acknowledge that this type of crime is particularly challenging to prevent, as it often occurs rapidly, and victims may not even notice immediately. Rest assured, we will continue to collaborate with the SPVM to adopt the best strategies and practices to combat distraction theft.”

The SPVM has also issued tips regarding such scams, advising the public to “travel in a group whenever possible, hide your valuable jewellery until you reach your destination” and “refuse a gift from a stranger and do not let that person come close to you.” n

Jewellery distraction scam hits CSL seniors Read More »

Drabkin,Oberman see hope in West End political horizon

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By:Joel Goldenberg
The Suburban

After a troubling first week of the new federal Liberal government with ministers angering many Canadians on the issues of housing, pipelines, the budget and the Gaza-Israel war, The Suburban heard from the two Conservative Neils of the past campaign who ran strong campaigns. They both reflected hope and optimism.

Neil Drabkin ran in NDG-Westmount and Neil Oberman ran in Mount Royal, both achieving impressive numbers against incumbents Anna Gainey and Anthony Housefather respectively.

“The strong numbers indicate that Montrealers are starting to come around,” Drabkin said. “Although we haven’t won a seat on the island of Montreal in 37 years, voters seeking change came out for us in large numbers this time due to the strong leadership of Pierre Poilievre. That bodes well for the future and our ability to make inroads in Montreal after all these years,” added Drabkin, who has had a long and rich history with the Conservative Party. A lawyer and former federal prosecutor Drabkin is well known to the community not only as a political commentator on CJAD 800, but also as someone who has served at the highest levels of government in the Brian Mulroney and Stephen Harper administrations including as Chief of Staff to Stockwell Day.

Barbara Kay, in the National Post, called Drabkin a “proven political commodity.” Rabbi Reuben Poupko of Côte St. Luc’s Beth Israel Beth Aaron Synagogue has said, “Our community is extremely proud of the contribution that Neil has made and to the extent to which he has always been there to assist.” Despite accepting to run at the request of the Party in what is considered to be one of the safest Liberal strongholds in the country, Drabkin tripled the Conservative vote to over 10,000 or some 20%, the highest in decades.

Oberman engaged in one of the most formidable campaigns in many years in Mount Royal, which has been a Liberal stronghold since 1940. The candidate, best known for protecting some 47 Jewish institutions with the injunctions he won against anti-Israel protesters, sought debates with Housefather and campaigned vigorously throughout the riding, which includes Côte St. Luc, Hampstead and Montreal West, gaining a historic 40% of the vote

Oberman says that his commitment “remains unwavering.Sometimes setbacks are tuition in the school of leadership,” he added. “I will persist in collaborating with all constituents, which includes approximately 41 percent of our riding who are actively seeking change. This desire for transformation is palpable and significant. Change is indeed on the horizon — however, it often comes with challenges and requires perseverance.”

Oberman added, “Simply put. The current liberal government is doing exactly what it promised. Nothing. So to all Canadians who voted for the liberals you got what you asked for. Now the question is will Canadians take back their country and stand up for change. Hopefully this government will be dispatched from Ottawa sooner than later. As for the young people I encourage you to keep advocating for your future just don’t expect the liberal baby boomers to help you. What can we do as Conservatives? Show Canadians that change is possible when we stop following old ways that yield no positive result. Your vote your voice your choice brings change.” n

Drabkin,Oberman see hope in West End political horizon Read More »

Call 311 and get results!

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By Joel Goldenberg
The Suburban

The advice police all over the world give, “if you see something, say something,” does not only apply to looking out for suspicious people and calling local authorities.

It can also apply to potential hazards in neighbourhoods that could harm members of the public.

On May 13, on the north side of Queen Mary Road between Earnscliffe and Clanranald in Snowdon, I saw that a sign prohibiting parking between 3:30 and 6:30 p.m. in a bus zone was almost hanging by a thread. One of the bolts the sign was attached to had broken and it was tilted diagonally, looking like it could come off completely and cause major harm to a passerby.

Major harm had come to the area just days before. A block and a half to the west, a branch from a tree at the corner of Queen Mary and Macdonald in neighbouring Côte St. Luc fell and killed a 76-year-old woman.

Not wanting another tragedy to take place, I called the 311 city portal, a number used to inform the City of Montreal of potentially dangerous situations, at 9:43 p.m. May 13. A representative answered right away, took down the information, and promised to send someone to fix the sign.

By the time I returned to the area at around 6:30 p.m. May 14, the sign was fixed and firmly secured, proving that calling 311 for a potentially hazardous situation results in a very rapid response. Montrealers should be on the lookout for other potential dangers and call the service as soon as possible. n

Call 311 and get results! Read More »

West end Mayors press Girard on Cavendish, Hippodrome

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Joel Goldenberg
The Suburban

Mayors from Côte St. Luc, St. Laurent and Town of Mount Royal recently met with Quebec Finance Minister Eric Girard to press the case for the long-awaited Cavendish link and for a proper mobility plan for the Hippodrome site, Councillor Dida Berku reported to CSL council.

Berku, who was also part of the meeting with Girard, pointed out that as far as back as 1962, there was an agreement between CSL, St. Laurent, TMR and Montreal to build Cavendish, but Quebec shifted the focus to the then-future Décarie Expressway.

Switching to the present, Berku said the meeting with Girard took place the week before the council meeting.

“Now that the federal election is over, the provincial and municipal leaders are scrambling for infrastructure money,” she pointed out. “The Mayors asked the Minister to respect the 2017 Hippodrome sale agreement [to include the Cavendish extension in the overall project], and to understand that even if infrastructure money was to come, that it should not be given unless it’s also attached to the Cavendish project.”

Berku said the Mayors also told Girard that the Hippodrome project, in which 20,000 homes are planned for the site, needs a proper mobility plan.

“We were given a presentation by the City of Montreal two weeks ago where the mobility plan was completely unrealistic,” she explained. “It’s a non-starter. There’s one access for Jean Talon, and another for Devonshire. However, the fire department insists, and this is perhaps something that works in our favour, that there be three separate egress and access points for the Hippodrome project.”

Berku said there are two access options being considered.

“One is an underpass on Clanranald [from Jean Talon in Montreal to Côte St. Luc], but in my view it would be very difficult to have a fire truck go under [the rail tracks] on Clanranald. That would be a major underpass.” She later said a Clanranald underpass would be optimal for pedestrians, even possibly with a moving sidewalk.

The other. previously reported by The Suburban, would be for Jean Talon to go to Mackle in CSL.

“They keep pushing it, but we keep telling them it doesn’t make any sense. You’d have to cross nine tracks, parking lots, wetlands, and probably build an underpass double the length of the existing Cavendish underpass. It’s going to be much more expensive, much longer and more difficult to build than the underpass they would build if they did the Cavendish extension.” The more realistic option, she told The Suburban, is to extend Jean Talon to an extended Cavendish, “which would be less expensive than the Mackle option.”

Berku said the City of Montreal “has to understand that they have no other option” but to also build the Cavendish link.

“I told Girard, why would we invest even $1 into the infrastructure if there’s no viable mobility plan?” she told The Suburban.

What was Girard’s response, we asked.

“It was ‘It’s going to take a long time, and the federal government hasn’t given any money yet,’” Berku said. “The Mayors are going to insist that when Prime Minister Mark Carney meets [Montreal Mayor] Valérie Plante, that he understands very well that investing in the Hippodrome infrastructure could be a priority for the City of Montreal, but it should not be realized unless it’s linked to Cavendish, because there’s no viable road network to service the Hippodrome.”

Mayor Mitchell Brownstein said not building the Cavendish extension along with the Hippodrome project would represent a breach of contract.

“We’ll keep on pushing.” n

West end Mayors press Girard on Cavendish, Hippodrome Read More »

Ile-Perrot merger dispute draws community forum

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By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Residents gathered at Station des sports restaurant as citizen association Becoming Île Perrot addressed the ongoing debate over municipal amalgamation studies on the island, marking another significant milestone in their campaign for unified governance.

The meeting centred on information published in Notre-Dame-de-l’Île-Perrot’s (NDIP) recent “Quoi de neuf” newsletter regarding amalgamation study costs. The organization presented comprehensive documentation from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs (MAMH) to demonstrate that such studies are available at no cost to municipalities, challenging what they view as misleading information in the municipal publication.

“Our concern is functionality and that the citizens benefit from the best services possible,” Becoming Île Perrot founder Francine St-Denis told The Suburban. “We understand the challenges related to a merge but it is essential to create the best possible services to constituents and local merchants.”

Becoming Île Perrot, established in November 2023, is calling on NDIP council to correct their newsletter content and accurately inform citizens about the availability of free government studies. The organization emphasizes that transparency and accurate information are crucial for informed public discourse about the island’s future.

The proposed amalgamation would significantly reshape local governance. A unified municipality would serve more than 40,000 residents, combining the current municipalities of Pincourt, Terrasse-Vaudreuil, L’Île-Perrot, and Notre-Dame-de-l’Île-Perrot under a single administration. This population size would put the unified city on par with neighbouring municipalities such as Vaudreuil-Dorion and Salaberry-de-Valleyfield, potentially increasing its regional influence.

Gérard Farmer, a local entrepreneur serving the area since 1981 and former president of the Île-Perrot Merchants Association, expressed concerns about the current fragmented system. “The geopolitical weight needs to be increased in order for us to be able to advocate for our collective needs in terms of the highway, the bridge and transportation in general,” Farmer said to The Suburban. His experience in the local business community spans over four decades, offering valuable insight into the challenges faced under the current municipal structure.

This represents the most significant proposed change to the island’s governance since 1984, when the City of Pointe-du-Moulin merged with the Parish of Notre-Dame-de-l’Île-Perrot. Notre-Dame-de-l’Île-Perrot currently stands as the largest of the four municipalities on the island, and its position on the amalgamation issue carries particular weight in the ongoing discussions.

The organization has been actively seeking meetings with municipal officials to discuss the current municipal organization. Their stated goal is to ensure residents have access to comprehensive information about the potential benefits and implications of municipal unification. Despite these efforts, some municipal councils have been hesitant to engage in formal discussions about the merger possibility.

According to the organization’s website, municipalities can obtain a government study simply by requesting it from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs. This stands in contrast to the information published in NDIP’s newsletter, creating confusion among residents about the actual process and costs associated with exploring amalgamation options.

The potential merger could lead to significant administrative streamlining, with current estimates suggesting substantial savings through reduced overhead and consolidated services. The organization points to successful municipal mergers elsewhere in Quebec as examples of the potential benefits of unification.

“We have a vision and we believe this is the best course of action, but this is a democracy and the people will decide. We just want to do our due diligence and let them know,” St-Denis explained. This approach reflects the organization’s commitment to public engagement and democratic process in pursuing their amalgamation goals.

NDIP officials had not responded to requests for comment regarding the newsletter’s content by press time. The silence from municipal leadership has raised concerns among merger proponents about transparency in the discussion process.

The organization continues its efforts to promote dialogue about the island’s municipal structure, emphasizing the importance of accurate information in public discussions about potential amalgamation. Sunday’s meeting represented another step in their ongoing campaign to engage residents in conversations about the island’s administrative future, with particular focus on ensuring all citizens have access to factual, objective information about the amalgamation process and its implications for the community’s development. n

Ile-Perrot merger dispute draws community forum Read More »

Unions fight back over West Island CIUSSS cuts

Local Journalism Initiative / / / ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

The four main unions representing more than 15,500 employees at the West Island CIUSSS are speaking out as a second round of staffing and service reduction cuts rolls out this spring. The latest cost-saving measures, which follow initial cuts stemming from a budget recovery plan announced last November, are affecting everything from job postings and overtime to basic support services.

In this latest wave, the CIUSSS is moving ahead with abolishing positions, freezing external hiring, cancelling some workload assignments and replacements, and even closing several kitchens within the health network. Housekeeping services have also been scaled back, and unions say this is already having an impact on conditions in care environments and operating rooms.

The Association of Professionals and Technicians in Health and Social Services (APTS) reports that more than 90 specialized positions in both health care and social services have been cut. The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) points to longer surgical wait lists and reduced hygiene care as direct results of these staffing shortages. Both unions are hearing increased complaints from staff and patients about the effects of these changes.

Nursing and respiratory therapy teams represented by the Syndicat des professionnelles en soins de santé de l’Ouest-de-l’Île-de-Montréal (SPSSODIM) are also feeling the impact. The union warns that the current pace of reductions risks repeating the pandemic-era cycle of excessive workloads, burnout, and leave for disability, which in turn fuels more staff shortages.

Administrative departments are under pressure as well. The local SQEES-FTQ union, representing nearly 2,000 office and support staff, says that with summer vacation approaching and no overtime replacements available, some departments could face temporary closures. The union is recommending a review of scheduling and the use of temporary workload assignments to keep services running and avoid gaps during peak vacation periods.

Management at the West Island CIUSSS has not issued a detailed public response to the most recent union statements. The agency is working to address an $80 million budget shortfall, or about six percent of its annual budget, as part of a wider provincial drive to control health network costs. Since last fall, over a thousand positions have been eliminated across Quebec; the local effects in the West Island are now being felt.

Unions say they have made proposals for alternative cost-saving measures but have not seen those options seriously considered. For now, the future of local health and social services remains uncertain as staff shortages and service reductions continue to unfold. Many in the West Island community are left wondering how these changes will affect their access to care and the quality of the services they rely on. n

Unions fight back over West Island CIUSSS cuts Read More »

Dorval trucker gets unprecedented 10-year sentence for negligence

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Jagmeet Grewal, the truck driver from Dorval at the centre of the fatal Highway 440 crash in Laval, was sentenced to 10 years in prison on Thursday, marking the harshest penalty ever imposed in Quebec for criminal negligence causing death behind the wheel. Justice Yanick Laramée, presiding at the Laval courthouse, explained that Grewal’s actions reflected “profound contempt for the law and for road safety,” highlighting his repeated dishonesty and refusal to take responsibility for the devastation he caused.

The tragedy unfolded on August 5, 2019, when Grewal’s transport truck failed to stop as it approached heavy, visible traffic near the Highway 15 exit. Without braking, the truck plowed into a line of vehicles, triggering a fiery pileup that killed four people—Gilles Marsolais, Michèle Bernier, Sylvain Pouliot, and Robert Tanguay-Laplante—and seriously injured four others. The crash occurred in clear weather and under normal road conditions, making the disaster even more difficult for families to comprehend. Many victims were trapped in their vehicles as fire rapidly consumed the wreckage, leaving loved ones unable to say goodbye.

Court proceedings revealed a troubling history behind Grewal’s presence on the road. Several years prior, he had lost his commercial driving privileges for life following an accident in the United States. Medical assessments deemed him unfit to operate heavy vehicles due to significant physical and psychological limitations, and he was not adhering to his prescribed treatment. Despite this, Grewal managed to obtain a new license as a result of an administrative error at the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ). He then falsified documents and concealed his medical history and prior offences—including convictions for driving with a suspended license and impaired driving—to secure employment as a truck driver.

During sentencing, prosecutor Simon Blais argued for a severe penalty, pointing to Grewal’s disregard for the law, the magnitude of the tragedy, and the deliberate deception that enabled him to continue driving. Defence lawyer Philipe G. Knerr requested a prison term of four to five years, noting procedural violations during the investigation and Grewal’s age and health issues. Justice Laramée ultimately sided with the prosecution, emphasizing the devastating and irreversible consequences of Grewal’s choices, the exceptional circumstances of the case, and the need to send a clear message to commercial drivers about the seriousness of their responsibilities.

The 10-year sentence exceeds those handed down in similar cases, such as the eight-year term given to the truck driver in the 2018 Humboldt Broncos tragedy in Saskatchewan. Justice Laramée stated that this harsher penalty reflects not only the loss suffered by the victims’ families, but also society’s demand for accountability and deterrence in the transport industry.

While the defense pointed to Grewal’s age and health, the court was unmoved. The judge ordered that all sentences be served concurrently, but made clear that the punishment reflects both the irreversible loss suffered by the victims’ families and the need to deter similar conduct in the future. For those left behind, the pain remains raw. In their statements, relatives described sleepless nights and the ongoing struggle to move forward. Many hope stricter oversight of commercial trucking and licensing will follow, so no other families endure such devastation. n

Dorval trucker gets unprecedented 10-year sentence for negligence Read More »

SPCA’s Families Walk takes aim at no-pet leases

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

by Dan Laxer
The Suburban

SPCA Montreal is holding a Walk to Keep Families Together, taking aim against no-pet clauses.

July 1, Quebec’s unofficial moving day, is just weeks away. So the SPCA is urging all provincial political parties to declared the clauses null and void.

“We see the growing problems caused by these extremely restrictive and arbitrary clauses every day,” says Sophie Gaillard, Director of Animal Advocacy and Legal and Governmental Affairs. “The impact is significant, not only for the animals themselves and for shelters overflowing as a result of forced surrenders, but also for the families broken up by these unfair clauses.”

Being forced to leave pets behind in a move is a heartbreaking choice, she adds. Children form deep attachments to their pets, which is beneficial to their development. And research shows that single senior citizens who live with a companion animal fare better. Yet children and the elderly are among the groups directly affected by the no-pet clauses. Other vulnerable groups most affected by the bans include people suffering from loneliness. Victims of family violence, the SPCA says, sometimes decide to remain in unsafe situations rather than leave without their pets.

Fifty-two percent of Quebec households include pets. Given the current housing crisis and the rising cost of living, the SPCA points out, the imbalance caused by no-pet clauses is “extremely problematic.”

The organization characterizes a residential lease as “a contract where the stronger party imposes its terms on the weaker party, without negotiation.” Responsible tenants, it says, whose animals cause no damage or nuisance should not have to live with the constant threat of losing their home or being forced to part with their companion.

More than one animal a day is surrendered to the SPCA because of the difficulty of finding a home where animals are accepted.

“Our team is so frequently called upon to deal with these issues by citizens in distress, and the impact on shelters is so significant, that the SPCA considers it a province-wide priority issue,” says Gaillard. “Citizens even tell us,” she adds, “that a commitment to ban no-pet clauses could influence their vote in the next provincial election.”

While SPCA Montreal points out that no-pet clauses are prohibited in Ontario, there are exceptions. The Advocacy Centre for Tenants Ontario explains that landlords cannot ban a tenant from having a pet, but under some circumstances – where a pet causes damage, for example, or whose noise or behaviour is a nuisance to others – a landlord could evict a tenant for having a pet.

Here in Quebec, there is no provision in the law regarding pets in rental housing. So it comes down to what is written in the lease. There are exceptions for helper animals or support animals. But the SPCA wants to see the no-pet clauses removed completely.

A petition to this effect from 2022 was signed by more than 33,000 people. And in 2023 Québec solidaire tabled Bill 494, “An Act to amend the Civil Code to render without effect the clauses of a lease of a dwelling tending to prohibit companion animals.”

The Montreal SPCA is asking the public to contact their MNAs and demand that all political parties commit to resolving this issue. The Walk to Keep Families Together is on Sunday May 25 at 1 pm at Square St-Louis.

SPCA’s Families Walk takes aim at no-pet leases Read More »

NDG school for Indigenous boys gets support from EMSB

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By Dan Laxer
The Suburban

The English Montreal School Board is joining forces with an alternative school in NDG that provides support for Indigenous students at risk.

Ulluriaq has been in the neighbourhood for about six years. Its students are boys from Nunavik and communities in and around the Ungava Peninsula, and operates under the Ungava Tulattavik Health Centre. The unit has two components. One is a detention facility. The other is a high school that provides education to at-risk and neurodivergent teens in a setting that prioritizes cultural connection and hands-on learning.

The EMSB will be providing the school’s educational component.

Life in the north is hard. Suicide rates are high. And life expectancy, at least at one time, was no longer than 21 years. The thinking behind setting up Ulluriaq was that, rather than send people to northern communities, it would be better to bring at-risk kids to the city where they might experience a bigger world. The mission has changed somewhat, says head teacher Ophir Benjacob. Now Ulluriaq – which means “star” – takes in kids who might either be in youth protection, or in the justice system. Their home communities don’t have the tools to give them the help they need. So they send them to Ulluriaq.

The partnership between the school and the EMSB means that the board will provide educational support – teachers who will be going into Ulluriaq. That comes with challenges. Many of the boys at Ulluriaq have never been to school, Benjacob tells The Suburban. Those who have, he says, might have come out traumatized. There are cultural and linguistic differences to overcome. Many of the boys at Ulluriaq speak only Inuktitut. They are disconnected from their homes and communities. The teachers will have to learn about where these boys come from, about their culture. And they will need to have the teaching and communication skills necessary to help the boys overcome their challenges.

Last fall the EMSB hired two new teachers as project development officers for Indigenous support. Raymond Johnson-Brown and Kurt Kerschl work to ensure a safe environment for Indigenous students at schools in the board. The two will work as liaisons with Ulluriaq. Johnson-Brown knows what it means to grow up in the care system. “I felt an immediate pull when I learned that we provide education services to children in a facility that is locked down,” Johnson-Brown says. “It’s such a surreal and disorienting experience to be taken from your home, your culture, and your language, and then placed in an environment where you can’t even begin to process what’s happening to you.”

Benjacob explains that the partnership will give Ulluriaq “the capacity to expand on the program beyond the basic academics that are conventional for a high school” to encompass elements of the Inuit culture.

At Ulluriaq, “we are not just teaching, we are building a foundation for resilience, self-sufficiency, and cultural pride,” says Benjacob. “By meeting our students where they are, both academically and culturally, we are proving that education can be a tool for empowerment, not a barrier to success.” n

NDG school for Indigenous boys gets support from EMSB Read More »

School boards discourage Friday’s planned student anti-cellphone ban strike

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by Dan Laxer
The Suburban

The Suburban recently reported that there was mixed reaction to the Quebec government’s school cell phone ban, particularly among students. So much so that some are planning on staging a walkout tomorrow (Friday, May 9) to protest the ban, leading the English Montreal School Board to put out a message discouraging the action.

Word has been spreading about the strike via TikTok

“We would like to remind all students and families,” the message reads, “that students are expected to be in school during the regular hours.”

The board points out that schools are “in examination mode and disruptions to classroom teaching and exams will not be tolerated.”

The cellphone ban is based on the recommendations of a multi-party committee who recommended that, despite whatever policies individual schools have, starting in the next school year all elementary and high schools must enact a ban on cellphones and other electronic devices for the duration of the school day.

Education Minister Bernard Drainville, who officially enacted the ban after hearing the committee’s recommendations, has also discouraged the walkout. Speaking in the National Assembly, Drainville said that students can find several other ways to express themselves concerning the ban, “but missing school should not be one of them.” And he is asking parents to be on board with making sure kids stay in class.

The EMSB said in its message that “the safety and security of EMSB students and staff remains our priority at all times.”

That sentiment is echoed by the French side by the Centre de services scolaire de Montreal.

While some students are defiantly planning to strike, others are saying a strike goes too far.

School boards discourage Friday’s planned student anti-cellphone ban strike Read More »

Westmount sees 2,000 student climate champions march

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By Dan Laxer
The Suburban

Last Friday morning Montrealers thought they might see some high school students protesting the Quebec government’s cellphone ban. There were none. But there were students out marching for the environment.

Traffic on The Boulevard and on Belmont Avenue in Westmount was delayed for about a half an hour to give students from several schools in the area time to walk from their schools to Murray Hill Park.

The event was called Rising Voices: A Call to Climate Action.

Students from Roslyn Elementary School met up with students from St. George’s at the corner of The Boulevard and Belmont. They walked to the park from there, meeting up with students from several other Westmount schools – St. Leon de Westmount, St. George’s Elementary and High School, The Priory, Miss Edgar’s and Miss Cramp’s, The Study, Roslyn, Villa Maria, and Trafalgar School for Girls.

The students from St. Georges carried a mascot that they created. They worked with artist Bronwen Moen from the One Drop Artefact for Change Foundation to create the mascot based on their conception of what a Water Protector would look like.

Laura Officer, a Grade 3 French teacher at St. George’s, started the march two years ago as a different way to get students involved with environmental issues.

Sustainability, she tells The Suburban, could be “a difficult subject to talk about with children.” Depending on how the subject is broached, it could cause some anxiety. “So if you’re going to be talking about it then you should also be talking about different solutions that are available to all of us.” Kids need to learn to work collaboratively, she says, “to create change by working with other people.”

Students are taught that some of the ways you can create change is by talking to about the issues, starting a petition, creating art, or by organizing a walk.

The first march was in 2023 with just one school, St. George’s Elementary. At the time students marched was just a short way to the high school and back. A teacher from The Study happened to see them walking by and asked if her school could join the following year. So the next one, in 2024, involved all of the schools along The Boulevard.

They had also invited MNA Jennifer Maccarone, MP Anna Gainey, and Westmount Mayor Christina Smith, who all attended. In fact, Mayor Smith invited students to a council meeting to plead their case for environmental solutions in the community, including a bicycle path along The Boulevard (there isn’t one on The Boulevard. But there are three in Westmount – on De Maisonneuve, on Cote Saint Antoine, and on Westmount Avenue. The path on De Maisonneuve takes cyclists through Westmount Park.).

This year’s participants had to contend with a cold, rainy day. But the 2,000 students who gathered at Murray Hill Park didn’t seem to mind. They all stuck it out through student speeches about water, single-use plastic, and other environmental issues.

The same elected officials who were there last year had been invited to attend again this year, but unfortunately none of them were available.

“The biggest success,” Officer says, “was how many students really felt like they had been heard and that they have this sense of agency and importance. And that goes beyond climate issues. It goes for everything in life. If you feel like you have a voice and you’re able to work with others to bring about change, that has positive repercussions in many different sides of life.” n

Westmount sees 2,000 student climate champions march Read More »

EMSB tables motion to save F.A.C.E. School

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

By Dan Laxer
The Suburban

The English Montreal School Board has tabled a motion to help save F.A.C.E. School. The arts core education school serving both Anglophone and Francophone elementary and high school students is facing an existential crisis after the CAQ government went back on its promise to fund urgently-needed renovations, thereby keeping it open.

Instead, the education ministry announced last month that the planned renovations to the heritage building have become too costly. The work was originally estimated at $243 million. But the government says the actual costs have risen to $375 million. As reported in The Suburban last month, the government has opted, instead, to separate the elementary school and high school, and house them in two different locations – École Christophe Colomb and École Saint-Urbain.

With the school’s fate all but decided, the EMSB has tabled a motion at the April 29 Board of Commissioners, “calling on the government to keep F.A.C.E. school.” The motion was tabled by EMSB Chairman Joe Ortona and by Ward 4 commissioner Maria Corsi, who commented at the meeting that “the F.A.C.E School community, both on the CSSDM side and the EMSB side, was blindsided” by the ministry of education.”

Ortona agrees. “While we were well aware that the F.A.C.E. building is in need of significant renovations, the possibility of this building closing as a school permanently was never raised,” Ortona said, calling the ministry’s decision “disgraceful” and “shameful.”

“For the Minister to just announce this late on a Friday afternoon (April 4) left everyone with more questions than answers,” Ortona added. “The Minister has an obligation to consult, even in the French sector. It’s a disregard of our rights.”

The decision to withdraw funding for the renovations, Corsi said, essentially spells “the end of the highly successful and unique F.A.C.E. School cohabitation model and program.” Corsi points out that the government made its decision without consulting the communities that will be affected.

Corsi highlighted, as did Geneviève Gueritaud, a mom of F.A.C.E. students who spoke with The Suburban last month, that the locations proposed by the government are inappropriate to F.A.C.E. School’s arts-core education. They don’t have the facilities required, or the space, to accommodate its arts-core curriculum.

The motion is calling on the government to consider alternatives to the rehabilitation project that would “reduce costs to allow F.A.C.E. School to return to its current location without impacting the safety and security of students and staff.”

The motion also suggests as an alternative, if retaining the current F.A.C.E. location is rejected, the site of the former St. Raphael School at 8735 Henri Julien “for the construction of a new, state-of-the-art facility specifically designed for the arts, to house elementary and high school students of the CSSDM and the EMSB together.”

F.A.C.E. is the only school in the city that houses students from both the CSSDM and the EMSB. The CSSDM owns and manages the building.

If the government’s decision stands, Corsi argued, future students will no longer have access to the educational benefits and advantages of F.A.C.E. School’s cohabitation model. “It is incorrect and disingenuous,” she says, “for the minister to say that the F.A.C.E. program would remain the same in two separate buildings. So, it’s imperative, and the school community expects, and in fact demands, that the minster reconsider this decision, and that the costs of the F.A.C.E renovation project be reevaluated and that all options be considered to ensure the integrity of the program, and that the students remain together in one building.”

The motion was passed unanimously. n

EMSB tables motion to save F.A.C.E. School Read More »

Herschel Segal: The world was his canvas

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Beryl Wajsman,Editor

A giant in Canadian business, the arts, philanthropy and community leadership passed away last week. Hersch Segal founded two public companies. Le Chateau Stores and David’s Tea. At its height, Le Chateau had 123 stores and employed several thousand. But that doesn’t begin to tell the story of the rich tapestry of his life.

Segal always viewed the world as his canvas. He always attracted — and was attracted by — the risk takers. The avant-garde in everything from business to the arts. Those who thought outside of the box and broke down barriers to allow all the fullest flowering of individual possibilities. And it gave him great satisfaction to support the initiatives that allowed these changes to be realized. He befriended them and mentored them. The phrase “See what Hersch thinks” was heard quite often in this city and indeed across the country on so many things.

He could have followed a more traditional course in his life, but being involved in the temper of his times was so much at the core of his being from the beginning. After graduating in economics and political science from McGill and The New School in New York, he volunteered in Democrat Adlai Stevenson’s two Presidential campaigns in the United States just a few years before he started Le Chateau. He could have gone right into his family’s highly successful company Peerless Clothing that is a North American giant until today. But Segal had a different vision and was moved by a different drummer as he opened his first Le Chateau in 1959. He promoted the avant-garde and gave new European and Canadian style and trendsetters a showcase.

Not only the story of Le Château but the story of Hersch Segal, is intimately tied into the fabric of Montreal. It was here that Segal was born over ninety years ago, educated and became part of the circle of brilliant and daring intellectuals and activists and business leaders who sparked the character of change in the 60s and 70s. And the company he founded never forgot the innovative city it was born in.

Segal was a leader in that part of civil society who brought about redemptive change. A man of compassion and conscience. People knew of his business achievements but not as many knew how he made the work of advocates and activists possible through his moral and material support. Few exemplified the best of corporate responsibility as Hersch Segal did.

And innovation was always a central Segal hallmark. Just a decade ago — some sixty years after he founded Le Chateau — he was still innovating and still loyal to this city. He launched the “Of Montréal” platform to celebrate its roots in Canada’s fashion capital. The company was once described as “capturing a generation of change” something that not only defined the corporation but its visionary founder as well who had been deeply involved in giving back to the city he loved, and to those less fortunate in it, for decades.

A great story of the kind of people he and his company supported and attracted came about a decade after his company started and it concerned John Lennon. Segal gave the Beatles star and Yoko Ono their velvet jumpsuits which they wore during their famous bed-in at the Queen Elizabeth Hotel in the 1960s. Perhaps what described the spirit of both Segal and Le Château best was expressed by Franco Rocchi, former Le Château Executive Vice-President who, commenting on “Of Montréal,” said “It’s about rejoicing where it all began, the city that inspired our beginning and continues to inspire the brand .”

Another initiative that so personified Segal and the corporate culture he inspired came just nine years ago when Le Château Montréal matched — in kind — every purchase Montrealers made in one of its half dozen giant outlet stores. You bought $100 worth of merchandise and $100 worth of merchandise was put aside for charity. It was a groundbreaking idea for direct giving where individuals and corporations worked hand in hand. Le Château did not just put the clothing aside but Segal saw to it that a small truck fleet delivered all the merchandise. And then he expanded the campaign and made it national with online purchases matched with in-kind gifts and all merchandise was delivered through United Way in every city in the country.

Aside from his generosity in community-wide fundraising, local beneficiaries of Hersch Segal’s direct commitment to “gentling the condition” have included the West Island Women’s Shelter, Le Chainon in the eastern part of the island. He helped at risk youth through gifts to AJOI in the west island and to Dans La Rue in the city. And two pillars of Montreal’s institutions of compassion — Sun Youth and the Old Brewey Mission — were major recipients as well.

For Hersch Segal this was never about clever marketing. This is a man who truly cared. Let me share a personal story. Some years ago I was involved in mounting a charity concert for the vulnerable. It was the first multi-artist multi-beneficiary concert ever held in Montreal. We filled the Théatre St-Dénis with artists like Ranée Lee in support of charities such as Maison du Partage d’Youville and Fondation de la rue à la réussite. The former feeds and clothes the hungry. The latter trains homeless people and finds them jobs. The Suburban gave the event several months of coverage leading up to the concert and won first prize in a North American competition for media community service. When Hersch Segal heard about the event he immediately insisted that Le Château would become a sponsor of the evening. Just like that. No solicitation on our part. His call. That was Hersch Segal. That was his conscience, and that was the corporate conscience of the company he founded. It was never about the angles. It was about a visceral desire to help.

His attitude was the same for individuals in need. After The Suburban ran a story on one of his charitable initiatives we received a very moving letter. It concerned a woman who had worked in the fashion industry all her life. She contracted cancer. Her employer replaced her. Hersch Segal gave her a job and all the time off for treatment she needed. He even let her work from home at a time when that was far from the norm. The letter was written by a friend of that woman’s. Her closing sentence was that people like Hersch Segal,”keep the world in balance and give people hope and faith.” What higher praise could anyone hope for.

Hersch Segal taught us that we have no excuse not to get involved. He inspired us to dare to care. His like will not soon be seen again. He will be sorely missed… n

Herschel Segal: The world was his canvas Read More »

Tentative agreement reached in daycare strike

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

A tentative agreement between Quebec and the FSSS-CSN, representing 13,000 workers in government-subsidized daycares, has been reached after weeks of tension and strike action that brought a chunk of the province’s public early childhood care system to a halt. As of press time, the details of the agreement remain confidential. Union delegates are expected to review the proposal in the coming days, with a full membership vote anticipated to follow, though no specific dates have been announced.

The breakthrough followed thirteen days of walkouts, with more than 400 centres closed at various times and families across the West Island and beyond scrambling to find solutions. Many have turned to private daycare options, facing daily costs that can be six or seven times higher than subsidized rates. For some, the choice has been about job security; for others, it has come at the expense of savings or forced them to juggle unpredictable work schedules.

Negotiations leading up to the agreement have been tense. Talks initially stalled over wages, with the union maintaining that a 17.4% increase over five years would not close the gap between CPE educators and other public sector workers. Entry-level educators currently earn just over $21 an hour, while some staff make as little as $18. Union leaders have also pointed to ongoing staff shortages, with some centres forced to close classrooms or reduce service due to a lack of personnel.

The government’s pledge to build more CPE spaces has faced pushback from both workers and families, who argue that new buildings do little to solve the root problem: there simply aren’t enough educators to staff the system as it stands. Waitlists continue to grow, with more than 30,000 children seeking placement and many centres operating below capacity because of persistent vacancies.

As for the tentative agreement, the next step is for union delegates to examine the details internally. Only after this process will the proposal be brought to the wider membership for a vote. As of this week, no date for that vote has been announced. Until then, educators, parents, and CPE operators are left in a holding pattern, waiting for clarity on when regular operations might resume and whether the deal will go far enough to address the longstanding challenges facing the sector.

The FSSS-CSN, representing roughly 80 per cent of unionized CPE workers in Quebec, has maintained that its members will ultimately decide whether or not to accept the agreement. For now, families and staff are left hoping that this marks a turning point for the province’s daycare system, but the question of when Quebec’s subsidized daycares will return to normal remains unanswered as closures related to wage negotiations count for only a portion of the overall causes of ongoing turmoil.

The Suburban will continue to follow this evolving story and provide updates as more information becomes available.

Tentative agreement reached in daycare strike Read More »

Students and dignitaries honour Italian-Canadian veterans in Pointe Claire

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

In a moving display of remembrance, over 100 students joined Italian diplomatic officials and community and civic leaders last week to honour Italian-Canadian veterans at the Last Post Fund National Field of Honour in Pointe-Claire.

Under clear spring skies, students from several local schools gathered at the cemetery’s Currie Circle, where they participated in a solemn ceremony paying tribute to those who served. The commemoration saw young participants placing candles at the gravesites of Italian-Canadian veterans, bridging generations through acts of remembrance.

“Seeing these young people connect with our veterans’ legacy brings hope for the future,” said Italian Consul General Enrico Pavone, who attended alongside Deputy Consul Fortunato Mangiola. The diplomatic representatives joined members of Casa D’Italia and the broader Italian community in what proved to be a powerful morning of reflection and education.

The No Stone Left Alone Memorial Foundation, which helped organize the event, provided students with historical context about the National Field of Honour and the veterans interred there. Young participants listened intently to stories of service and sacrifice before placing their candles – each light representing a promise to remember.

The ceremony, which ran from 10 a.m. to noon, took place at Canada’s largest privately-owned military cemetery. Since its establishment in 1930, the Field of Honour has served as the final resting place for countless Canadian and Allied veterans. Its significance in preserving military heritage led to its designation as a National Historic Site in 2007. n

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Vaudreuil trio arrested in connection with Plateau shooting

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Three young adults from Vaudreuil were arrested in connection with a shooting that took place outside a bar in Montreal’s Plateau-Mont-Royal borough earlier this month.

Montreal police (SPVM) confirmed that two men, aged 18 and 19, and a woman, 18, were taken into custody at a residence in the off-Island suburb.

The arrests are related to an incident that occurred on May 2, where shots were fired at the entrance of an establishment on Mont-Royal Avenue near Pontiac Street.

Officers responded to reports of shots fired just before 3 a.m. On arrival, investigators discovered several shell casings and bullet holes on the front door. The bar was closed at the time of the shooting and no injuries were reported. According to investigators, a suspect was seen firing at the entrance before leaving the area.

The SPVM’s firearms unit, working with other divisions, also executed a search warrant in Saint-Sauveur and seized evidence connected to the investigation.

The 19-year-old man and 18-year-old woman remain in custody and are scheduled to appear in court in Montreal. The third suspect, also 18, was released on a promise to appear at a later date. Names of the accused have not been disclosed.

The arrests followed a week-long investigation involving multiple SPVM units.

Police are asking anyone with information about the shooting to contact 911, their local station, or Info-Crime Montréal at 514-393-1133. Anonymous tips can also be submitted online. n

Vaudreuil trio arrested in connection with Plateau shooting Read More »

Youth baseball club denied access to West Island fields

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

The LS Beasts Baseball Club has been unable to secure field time in Dollard-des-Ormeaux and Pierrefonds-Roxboro. The club, which provides training and organizes teams for players aged nine to seventeen, joined the Can-Am United Baseball summer league this year. As a result of the denials, players, parents, and coaches have been traveling to Verdun, Town of Mount Royal, Hampstead, and even considering Malone, New York, for games and practices.

Pierrefonds-Roxboro officials cited a borough recognition policy that allows only one recognized baseball association to use their fields. They stated the policy aims to avoid competing programs and to keep fields available for local residents. The Pierrefonds Baseball Club also indicated that it wants to prioritize its members and Lac-St-Louis Baseball Québec players.

Dollard-des-Ormeaux council members said they would not rent fields to organizations in competition with the Dollard Amateur Baseball Association. The city’s position is that competing groups could draw players away from the local association.

LS Beasts president Menashi Mashaal says his club offers travel tournaments and professional coaching, with players paying more than $2,000 in fees. The club offered to pay rental fees but was not granted access. Parents from Dollard-des-Ormeaux have sent letters to council asking for access, noting that they pay taxes that support field maintenance. Mashaal points out that there is no bylaw prohibiting rental to other organizations.

Some municipalities such as Kirkland and St. Lazare have provided limited access, while others are full or have not finalized schedules. The LS Beasts have arranged some practices in Côte St. Luc and Town of Mount Royal, but field availability remains an issue.

Both Dollard-des-Ormeaux and Pierrefonds-Roxboro officials say the policies are longstanding and are intended to support recognized associations. Mayor Alex Bottausci of Dollard-des-Ormeaux has said that the matter is under review.

The LS Beasts started their season with games in Cornwall and Ottawa, reporting at least one win for each team. The club continues to look for local field options. n

Youth baseball club denied access to West Island fields Read More »

Kirkland arena hosts 7th annual mental health hockey fundraiser

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Hundreds of West Islanders gathered at Kirkland Arena for this year’s Perspective communautaire en santé mentale (PCSM) hockey tournament, an event that has become a cornerstone for community engagement around mental health. The City of Kirkland provided the arena free of charge for the day, offering crucial support to PCSM and its mission.

The festivities began on the second floor, where thirty different organizations set up tables to share information and resources tied to mental health. Attendees mingled over a buffet of hot meals and desserts, pausing at each table to learn more about the wide network of support available across the West Island.

Kirkland Mayor Michel Gibson told The Suburban, “We are very proud as a city to support this event. I encourage everyone to look at PCSM and get to know how they can contribute to this great cause.”

A surprise awaited guests as three Lamborghinis rolled onto the arena floor through the Zamboni doors, drawing a crowd of excited onlookers. People rushed to take pictures with the cars, adding an extra layer of excitement to the afternoon. The main event, a series of hockey games featuring politicians and organization members, brought a playful sense of camaraderie to a serious mission.

PCSM Director General Patrick Merrigan spoke to The Suburban about the event’s growing impact: “We are two great members of the West Island community. Every year this event is growing.” The expansion was clear both in the turnout and in the number of organizations eager to collaborate.

Pierrefonds-Roxboro Mayor Jim Beis, speaking with The Suburban, reflected on the positive force the event represents: “I like to think of this as positive mental health. We need to harvest a positive outcome by supporting our resources.”

Île-Bizard Mayor Doug Hurley told The Suburban that, as a former police officer, he intervened on approximately 100 calls each year related to mental health. Hurley explains the importance of looking out for one another: “Learn the symptoms and look around you to help your loved ones.”

PCSM Clinic Director Emmanuelle Morin emphasized the need for openness and collective action: “Together we can change the taboo surrounding mental health.” Joan Lee, President of WIBCA, underscored the urgency and value of continued support: “Mental health is at a height and it needs so much attention. We need this organization to continue doing what they do and we will continue to support them.”

Pointe-Claire Mayor Tim Thomas spoke candidly to The Suburban about losing five close friends to suicide and his ongoing advocacy for a psychiatric unit at Lakeshore Hospital: “There are long-term consequences institutionally when we don’t have resources.” For Thomas, mental health is a fundamental issue he hopes to tackle both through his support for local organizations and his efforts to strengthen public institutions.

MP for Lac-Saint-Louis Francis Scarpaleggia described PCSM as “a pillar in the constellation of organizations addressing mental health.” He acknowledged the challenges the community faces in the wake of the pandemic, adding, “One of the great things about our society is that we can speak openly.”

Brigitte Garceau, MNA for Robert-Baldwin, highlighted the prevalence of mental health challenges, noting, “One out of five [people are] suffering with mental health.” She praised PCSM’s approach: “They develop a rapport with those they serve to help them achieve their potential in life.”

DDO Mayor Alex Bottausci stressed the need for unity: “It is not a me problem and it is not a you problem. It is an us problem, an everybody problem. It is important to come together, rally together and expose it as much as we can to unite the community as one.” DDO City Councillor Errol Johnson added, “It is important for us to show the need and to contribute.”

Bikers Against Child Abuse, represented by Road Captain “REKKER,” told The Suburban, “This is a great opportunity to connect with other organizations and offer our help to intervene in cases of child abuse.”

As the crowd filtered out after the last hockey game, the day’s message lingered: supporting mental health is a shared responsibility, and through open dialogue and community effort, real change is possible. n

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Earth Day event in Île-Perrot brings community and green solutions together

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

The hum of shovels scraping compost and the chatter of neighbours sharing gardening tips filled the east-side lot at Michel-Martin park on Saturday as Île-Perrot marked its annual Earth Day. Residents lined up with bins and buckets, ready to collect the compost produced by the city’s year-round organic waste program. The annual event is a spring ritual that signals the unofficial start of planting season in the community.

City staff, easy to spot in their bright orange safety vests, kept things running smoothly, filling each container for residents as they made their way through the distribution points. Proof of residence was required, and each household could take home up to 100 litres of compost or mulch – enough to give backyard gardens a solid boost. By midday, supplies were running low, a testament to the event’s popularity.

The event, running from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., offered much more than just free compost and mulch. With Mother’s Day on the horizon, many left with potted plants, while others browsed the new lineup of kiosks focused on sustainable living. This year, the city added more ways to get involved, including advice on urban agriculture, a bike tune-up clinic, and hands-on activities for both children and families.

The Société d’horticulture environnementale des villes de l’île Perrot manned the first kiosk, distributing vegetable seeds—beans, chard, spinach, lettuce—and herb plants like basil, chives, and oregano, all in limited quantities. Over at the Vélo Québec tent, residents who signed up ahead of time rolled in their bikes for personalized tune-ups and advice on cycling safely around town.

For those interested in local biodiversity, Prollifora’s team offered honey tastings and handed out milkweed “seed bombs,” hoping to encourage more pollinator-friendly gardens. Meanwhile, the city’s own booth focused on urban forestry and waste management, with tree saplings including birch, spruce, maple, and pine available for planting in neighbourhood yards.

Raffles and prize draws added a festive touch, with semi-mature trees and children’s books among the prizes. For many, the real reward was a sense of community and shared environmental purpose. Earth Day in Île-Perrot continues to highlight collective action, making the city a little greener, one bucket of compost at a time.

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St. Laurent, Jacques-Cartier MNAs support Rodriguez for QLP leader

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Joel Goldenberg
The Suburban

St. Laurent MNA Marwah Rizqy and Jacques Cartier MNA Gregory Kelley have declared their support for Pablo Rodriguez as leader of the Quebec Liberal Party.

Rodriguez, who has appeared at several local events lately, was former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s Quebec lieutenant. He made the latest endorsement announcement accompanied by Michelle Setlakwe, campaign co-chair and MNA for Mont-Royal–Outremont.

Kelley and Rizqy are a married couple. Kelley, also the Official Opposition Critic for Energy, for Natural Resources, and for Relations with English-Speaking Quebecers, stated that Rodriguez is “someone who brings people together, not someone who divides.

“He has the experience and know-how to help continue to rebuild the party and I feel confident supporting someone who has faced down the Trump administration as a federal minister and has contacts all across Quebec and Canada. He can make Quebec a leader in the Canadian federation again, something we need in these unstable times.”

Rizqy, who announced months ago that she is not running for re-election, said Rodriguez is “the right man for the Quebec Liberal Party.

“His experience and drive will allow us to build a strong Liberal team to offer Quebecers a credible alternative to François Legault.”

Rodriguez himself stated this week that “I have a plan, I have the experience, and I definitely have a strong team to take on François Legault and the PQ in the next election.

“In order for the QLP to win the next election, it is absolutely necessary to unite all the Liberal forces. It is thanks to competent and high-quality people like Greg and Marwah that I will succeed. I’m really lucky to be able to count on their support and, above all, to have the privilege of calling them my friends,” says Pablo Rodriguez.

Rodriguez has already received endorsements from MNAs Désirée McGraw, Linda Caron, Setlakwe, Frédéric Beauchemin, Brigitte Garceau, Sona Lakhoyan-Olivier, Elisabeth Prass and Marie-Claude Nichols

Rodriguez is running against Karl Blackburn former President of the Conseil du Patronat du Quebec (2020–2025) Director General of the QLP (2009–2013) and MNA for Roberval (2003–2007) and Charles Milliard former President of the Fédération des chambres de commerce du Québec (2020–2024). Also in the race are attorney Marc Belamger and economist Mario Roy. n

St. Laurent, Jacques-Cartier MNAs support Rodriguez for QLP leader Read More »

Festival Sefarad to attract all generations this year

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Joel Goldenberg
The Suburban

The 45th edition of the very popular Communauté Sépharade Unifiée de Québec’s Festival Sefarad de Montréal started yesterday May 13 and will run until May 28 at various venues.

Avi Krispine, the festival’s president, told The Suburban in a phone interview that the goal of the festival is to attract “every generation possible, who is capable of attending.

“We want to attract more than 5,000 to attend the many events this year,” he added. “We’re offering a variety of cultural events — lectures, musical performances, theatre and comedy. What we’re doing differently this year is we’re using the talent we have in this city. We call it ‘Made in Quebec.’ We also decided to go ahead in very strategic venues, and the tickets have been selling quite fast.”

A highlight of the festival will be a gala May 25 at Théâtre St. Denis featuring famed Israel singer Eden Hason making his debut in Canada and a roundtable discussion featuring a media personality from France, a former member of the Canadian Special Forces, and others. The proceedings begin with a VIP event at 5 p.m. and then the Hason concert at 8 p.m.

This event is sponsored by the Benita Family Foundation, founded by Didier Benita, which was created after the Oct. 7, 2023 Hamas terrorist attack on Israel. Its mission includes the restoration of Israeli homes and essential infrastructure, reviving the country’s economy by attracting investments and creating jobs and supporting youth “through mentorship, education, and professional development programs.”

Benita, the gala chairman, told The Suburban the roundtable will not only discuss what took place Oct. 7, 2023, “but also how we can rebuild the country and how we can save lives.”

Some of the other festival events include:

• May 15, 7 p.m at the Gelber Centre: The free lecture is called Discovering the Song of Songs, a Biblical text, and includes a presentation by professor and author Dr. David Bensoussan, in conversation with Dr. Marc-Alain Wolfe. This event is being presented as part of the Jewish Public Library’s “Authors from Home” festival and series. Painter Anne-Marie Marrache will exhibit her works on the theme of the conference and singer Hazan Sion Chriqui will perform.

• May 16 and 17, at various Montreal synagogues: A Shabbat Tous Ensemble” that is described as a “true tribute to Sephardic heritage.”

• May 18, 2 p.m. at the Gelber Centre: A free lecture called Le Carnet de Rachel, focusing on “the unusual journey of an exceptional Moroccan Jewish woman seen through Judeo-Arabic proverbs.”

• May 18, 8 p.m.at the Tifereth Beth David Jerusalem Synagogue: A singles evening for ages 25 to 35 that includes a wine tasting and buffet.

• May 20, 8 p.m. at Théâtre Plaza, 6505 St. Hubert: Séfarade du Rire 2 featuring comedian Neev.

• May 27, 7:30 p.m. at Théâtre Plaza, 6505 St. Hubert: The play Un 6-Plex Pas Très Kasher, directed by Ariel Ifergan, about Côte des Neiges six-plex owner Armand Benadoun, who, “despite his eloquence, energy, and fine speeches, is finding it increasingly difficult to navigate today’s world.”

For more information on all the events, to reserve spots and purchase tickets, go to festivalsefarad.ca

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Quebec med school applicants posted antisemitic, racist messages

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Joel Goldenberg
The Suburban

A public Discord server called Med serveur on the Internet has become a “cesspool of antisemitism, racism, misogyny, and hate,” B’nai Brith Canada has revealed.

“For months, a number of aspiring doctors openly posted Holocaust denial, praise for the ‘Final Solution,’ hurled racial slurs, glorified terrorism, and degraded women,” the organization said. “This content wasn’t buried. It was shared in open channels, visible to over 1,400 members. Almost no one spoke up. These aren’t anonymous trolls. They are future doctors. And this kind of hate doesn’t stay online. It follows them into classrooms, clinics, and operating rooms.”

B’ani Brith Canada added that “silence enables this rot to spread. Institutions must act—now.Hate like this has no place in healthcare—or anywhere in Canadian society.”

The organization revealed some of the offending posts, which say “the Islamic State of Quebec,” “they are just Negroes”, “imagine a woman under antidepressant and f–king Ritalin who [performs?] surgery on you. She’ll vomit mid-surgery because it’s ‘too stressful’ and she needs a ‘mental health break’” and “Don’t worry. You can trust me as long as you don’t have kippa under your wig.” There are also cartoon depictions of Jews reminiscent of those in the Nazi publication Der Sturmer.

B’nai Brith added its own message in a graphic, saying “you’ve been exposed” and “would you trust these doctors with your life?”

Lior Bibas of the Association of Jewish Doctors of Quebec stated, “If these accounts are really from future physicians, we need an immediate investigation to identify those responsible and ensure they are not admitted to our medical schools or allowed to practice medicine. It is essential that the institutions involved act swiftly, transparently, and decisively to restore public trust.

“Hate has no place in medicine. These reported comments are not only unacceptable—they are dangerous. Admitting individuals who hold such views into the medical profession poses a real risk to Quebec patients, especially those from vulnerable communities. Medicine must be grounded in ethics, respect, and inclusion. Those who do not uphold these values should not be entrusted with the care of our population.”

A 106-page report that is circulating amongst Jewish doctors, most of which contains examples of the numerous offensive postings, alleges that at least one Dawson College student and a current Quebec medical student have posted some of the messages. The Dawson administration is reportedly looking into the matter.

The report adds that “themes commonly mentioned included claims that Quebec medical students discriminated against Arab/Muslim medical applicants and in favour of Jewish medical applicants….Most concerningly, no other bystanders [on Discord] stepped in to challenge these narratives, raising questions as to the moral fibre and character of the medical student applicant pool in Quebec and their ability to correctly identify and stand up to racism, sexism and Jew hatred.” n

Quebec med school applicants posted antisemitic, racist messages Read More »

Coroner, CSL investigating after senior killed by tree branch

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Joel Goldenberg
The Suburban

The Quebec Coroner and the City of Côte St. Luc are investigating after a branch of a city tree fell on the head of a 76-year-old woman at the corner of Queen Mary Road and Macdonald early Saturday afternoon.

The victim was in critical condition as of Saturday night, but later passed away. There are many older trees in the area, which borders both Hampstead and Snowdon.

Police, paramedics and firefighters responded to the scene. The SPVM does not believe the incident was criminal, and the Coroner has taken over the investigation.

The City of Côte St. Luc issued a statement, saying officials are “shocked by the tragic incident.

“Côte St. Luc EMS first responders arrived quickly on scene, and the individual was transported to hospital by Urgences-Santé. This is a shocking and rare tragedy and CSL will be conducting a full investigation to determine what happened.”

The CSL statement added that an arborist was conducting a full investigation and the city had blocked off the area until necessary pruning had taken place.

“Public safety is our highest priority. We are committed to understanding what happened and taking all appropriate measures.”

At the May 12 CSL council meeting, Mayor Mitchell Brownstein expressed condolences to the family of the victim, Ljubica Milicevic, who came to Montreal from Serbia and was the French librarian at Solomon Schechter Academy as well as an author.

“It’s a great loss to the community,” Brownstein added.

The Suburban noted that there were fairly high winds in the vicinity on Friday. As well, two years ago, in the aftermath of the 2023 ice storm, a branch fell off a tree right next to myself as I was seated on a bench in nearby Macdonald Park in Snowdon. n

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Hampstead’s Levi, Steinberg clash over parkspace

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

By Joel Goldenberg
The Suburban

The May 5 Hampstead council meeting was almost filled to capacity, and featured a clash between Mayor Jeremy Levi and his predecessor William Steinberg over the potential future of park space at the corner of Queen Mary and Northcote.

Before the meeting, Steinberg circulated a flier based on meeting agenda item 9.2, the “awarding of a contract to Profusion Immobilier Inc. for real estate broker services for the sale mandate of four lots owned by the Town of Hampstead.” Steinberg, who got more information about the item from a source, claimed in the flier that Hampstead is about to sell the Northcote park space “so that two enormous homes can be built there.

“No consultation, no referendum, no notice — just a small item on the agenda which does not even identify which lots are being sold,” the flier says.

At the meeting, before question period, Levi explained that the item was being deferred because of public reaction the previous weekend and that there was never any vote intended at that meeting for the sale of the land, “full stop.”

The Mayor explained that council brainstormed last summer over the possibility of selling the piece of land, potentially a $6 million transaction, and the town then gathered more information. A public consultation would then follow, he added.

“For Item 9.2, the purpose of giving out a mandate was to have a real estate firm create a rendering of what potential two single-family homes at that corner would look like. Council is trying to be extremely objective. What we’re trying to do is come up with creative ways that the town can increase revenue to fast track [ways to] better our infrastructure, parks and recreation services, community services and, in doing so, we need to find a balance of what are acceptable parameters that the public accepts.”

Levi also pointed out that the town’s intention is to “come up with options, present them to the public and discuss them. If it works, great, if it doesn’t, put it to the side.”

The Mayor also pointed out that the park land is actually zoned as residential, and thus not subject to a zoning referendum if the town decided to sell the land for housing; and even if there was a referendum, the entire town would participate, not just area residents. Levi said he would not feel comfortable selling the land if just over 50 percent of residents voted to do so, because so many would have opposed the selling option.

“We are not trying to hide anything.”

Residents at the meeting strongly expressed their opposition to the selling of the parkland, with one urging the town to zone the area as a park almost immediately. Levi said the flier had misinformation, which Steinberg strongly denied.

Steinberg, during his second time at the microphone, quoted an email written to him by Levi saying that council would “probably” have a consultation. Levi said he wrote the email at midnight. “I don’t think we should get caught up on semantics,” the Mayor said.

“When I put information out, I’m very careful and I say only what’s true,” Steinberg responded.

“And you said that ‘this is your last chance to stop it’ in the flier, which is not true!” Levi said. “You said that they were going to build enormous homes, which is not true! We haven’t even seen a rendering, how do we know?!” n

Hampstead’s Levi, Steinberg clash over parkspace Read More »

Jewish Unity Expo was a Vegas-style success

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Joel Goldenberg
The Suburban

The Montreal Jewish Unity Expo, bringing together 212 businesses and firms and thousands of attendees including Ensemble Montreal leader Soraya Martinez Ferrada for a day of networking, took place May 6 on Côte de Liesse Road in St. Laurent.

The event attracted a wide variety of companies, including real estate, sellers of cameras, power cleaning, 3D printing, a real estate virtual reality photographer, law firms like Choueke Hollander and Spiegel Ryan, mattress companies and many more.

Isaac Blackman, co-founder of the event with Martin Weiss, told The Suburban the expo was conceived six months ago and is the first such event at this scale — a previous event five years before had 30 booths.

“Fast forward, take a look around, at [about 1 p.m,], there were 3,688 people at this venue, and counting, thank God,” he said. “The concept of the event is supporting your fellow Jew, supporting another business, supporting another friend, bringing together every single community. Everyone is here to have a good time — network, support each other and walk out with connections.”

Blackman added that “everyone here so far, that I’ve heard, has built businesses, got contracts and leads. It’s amazing!”

Weiss, the co-founder of the event, said the original idea was that the “glue of the show was going to be real estate, that the exhibitors could talk to one another in that world.

“But we also expanded to have a little bit more fun, some food, some plant-based meat, things like that. But most of the show is real estate-based.”

The Suburban spoke with some of the exhibitors, and they were very pleased with how the event was proceeding.

Adam Spiro, who specializes in commercial restructuring and insolvency at the Spiegel Ryan law firm, said the firm decided to be part of the event as “we contribute to the Jewish community, we have a lot of Jewish clients, and wanted to be part of such a beautiful event!

“We couldn’t not be here. I met people I’ve spoken to on the phone a hundred times, and I met so many new people who will hopefully become clients, and hopefully friends too. I hope they do this event next year!”

Brian Breitstein of Wrap Demons, which transforms the look of vehicles with custom wraps as well as car colour changes and commercial vehicle graphics, said the event has been beneficial for the company.

“I’ve met a lot of people, I made a lot of contacts and a lot of people have taken my card, and I encountered a lot of businesses that need their trucks wrapped. There are more people here than I expected!”

Alina Tertychna of Groupe Monerix, an employment consultant, said “it’s a very nice event, lots of nice people and great information. Very useful!” n

Jewish Unity Expo was a Vegas-style success Read More »

Bail denied for DDO synagogue firebombing suspect

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Quebec Court Judge Salvatore Mascia has denied bail to Mohamed Ilyess Akodad, 19, charged in connection with the December firebombing of Congregation Beth Tikvah synagogue in Dollard-des-Ormeaux. The decision, delivered Thursday at the Montreal courthouse, means the accused will remain in detention until his next court appearance, with a formality hearing scheduled for late July.

The charges stem from what police investigators have deemed a deliberate attack on the synagogue located on Westpark Street. In the early morning hours of December 18, emergency services responded to a 911 call at approximately 3 a.m. reporting a fire at the religious institution. The perpetrator had thrown a Molotov cocktail through a window, shattering a glass panel adjacent to the front doors and igniting a fire in the vestibule leading to the inner door. Two windows were also broken at the Federation CJA West Island building across the street that same morning.

The SPVM arson squad arrested Akodad in April at his Anjou residence after executing a search warrant which led investigators to seize various pieces of evidence including materials related to incendiary devices.

Akodad faces charges of arson, attempted arson, destruction of property, and possession of incendiary materials. He pleaded not guilty during his initial court appearance.

The December incident marked the second attack on Beth Tikvah following a similar firebombing in November 2023, when staff and congregants arrived to find their front doors charred from a Molotov cocktail attack. Federation CJA’s West Island offices were also targeted in that incident, with a second Molotov cocktail discovered at its location.

“We are grateful to the police for diligently investigating this case,” said B’nai Brith Canada’s Regional Director for Quebec and Atlantic Canada Henry Topas, who also serves as cantor for Beth Tikvah. “Brazen attacks on our places of worship have left deep scars in Montreal’s Jewish community.”

DDO Mayor Alex Bottausci strongly condemned the attacks in both incidents. “These cowards need to be brought to justice with the severest penalties possible. To all the members of the Jewish community feeling threatened by this heinous act, I want to assure you that an investigation is currently underway and that our city is invested in the safety of our community,” Bottausci said to The Suburban.

Beth Tikvah Rabbi Emeritus Mordecai Zeitz maintained a positive stance citing to his sentiments to The Suburban regarding the community’s resilience despite the attacks. “We have been here for 60 years and we will be here for another 60 years.”

Federation CJA acknowledged that their Community Security Network was “instrumental in not only preventing greater damage but also in providing the tools and resources to law enforcement needed to further their investigation.”

According to B’nai Brith’s latest Annual Audit of Antisemitic Incidents, Quebec recorded a 215.7 percent increase in antisemitic incidents since 2023. Jews remain Canada’s most targeted religious minority, being the victims of almost 60% of hate crimes while making up only 2% of the population.

The area around Beth Tikvah also comprises the Hebrew Foundation School, which earlier in 2023 was targeted when two young men tore down and defaced Israeli flags.

Crown prosecutor Marie-Claude Bourassa will present additional evidence at the July hearing.

This arrest represents a first following multiple attacks on Jewish institutions across the Greater Montreal Area since the October 7 attacks by Hamas terrorists in Israel. The Montreal community watches closely on this carrying out of justice. n

Bail denied for DDO synagogue firebombing suspect Read More »

West Island Chamber of Commerce Accolades unveiled at ceremony

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

The West Island Chamber of Commerce (CCOIM) kicked off its signature awards season last week with the unveiling of the 2025 Accolades competition finalists. More than 100 business leaders and community members gathered at Salle Pauline-Julien, located within Cégep Gérald-Godin in Sainte-Geneviève, for the announcement ceremony.

The annual Accolades competition, open to all businesses and non-profit organizations in the West Island, has become a cornerstone event celebrating local business excellence. This year’s finalists represented diverse sectors of the West Island business community, from emerging startups to established enterprises.

The announcement cocktail provided an intimate setting for nominees to network and share their success stories. Representatives from the Chamber’s 850-member strong business community were present to support the finalists, who will compete across multiple categories recognizing innovation, growth, and community impact.

The winners will be revealed at the prestigious Accolades Gala, scheduled for June 5, 2025, at the Marriott Hotel in Dorval. The gala, presented by PME MTL Ouest-de-l’Île, is expected to draw hundreds of West Island business leaders and community stakeholders.

“This cocktail was the perfect occasion to highlight the outstanding achievements of our 2025 Gala Accolades finalists,” noted Chamber officials, emphasizing the importance of recognizing business excellence in the West Island territory, which spans from Lachine to Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue.

For the complete list of finalists and for gala tickets, interested parties can visit the Chamber’s website at ccoim.ca. n

West Island Chamber of Commerce Accolades unveiled at ceremony Read More »

Former Beaconsfield seniors home owner accused of poisoning residents

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

A case of alleged elder abuse has emerged in Montreal’s West Island, where the former proprietor of a Beaconsfield senior care facility stands accused of poisoning and assaulting vulnerable residents under her care.

In a case that first came to light through an extensive police investigation, Pierrefonds resident Pramela Kooblall, 66, faces an array of criminal charges related to her operation of Résidence Alps, a private care facility that operated on Beaconsfield Boulevard between 2015 and 2023.

Montreal police investigators allege that between January and October 2023, Kooblall engaged in a pattern of abuse that included administering toxic substances to residents, physical assault, and failing to provide essential care. The investigation has resulted in nine criminal charges, including two counts of administering poison “with intent to aggrieve or annoy,” three assault charges — one involving a weapon — and three counts of failing to provide the necessities of life.

Among the most concerning allegations is the charge of deliberately falsifying medical documentation — a serious offence that raises questions about the potential scope of the alleged misconduct and the ability to track residents’ true medical conditions.

The timing of these allegations has drawn attention to Quebec’s senior care facility inspection process. While a 2022 CNESST inspection found no irregularities at Résidence Alps, the contrast between those findings and the current criminal charges raises questions about the effectiveness of existing oversight mechanisms for small-scale senior care facilities.

Résidence Alps, which specialized in long-term care for predominantly autonomous seniors, operated as a small-scale facility where residents were meant to be largely independent. However, according to workplace safety documents, by 2022 some residents required assistance with basic daily activities, including bathroom visits.

Kooblall’s lawyer has indicated their client will not comment on the pending charges. The matter is scheduled to return to the Montreal courthouse in June, when Kooblall must declare whether she opts for trial by judge and jury or judge alone.

The case emerges against a backdrop of ongoing concerns about Quebec’s senior care system.

The devastating events at Residence Herron during the COVID-19 pandemic, where 47 residents died in the first wave, exposed critical vulnerabilities in the oversight of senior care facilities. That particular case, of which The Suburban published award-winning investigative reports, resulted in a $5.5 million settlement. Meanwhile, broader concerns about oversight of private senior care facilities persist, particularly regarding smaller operations that may fall under the radar.

This latest incident has reignited discussions about the need for enhanced oversight of private senior care facilities. In January 2024, the Superior Court of Quebec authorized a class action regarding the management of CHSLDs during the first two waves of COVID-19, but this current case suggests that challenges in protecting Quebec’s most vulnerable seniors extend beyond the pandemic period. n

Former Beaconsfield seniors home owner accused of poisoning residents Read More »

Quebec police forces intensify road safety operations

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Police presence intensified across Quebec last week as officers crack down on dangerous driving behaviours. The week-long operation, which began April 25 and continued until May 1, follows a recent province-wide blitz that revealed widespread traffic violations.

During an operation on April 15, the Sûreté du Québec (SQ) and local police forces handed out a staggering 5,545 tickets. The breakdown paints a concerning picture: nearly 3,000 drivers were caught speeding, 250 were nabbed using their phones behind the wheel, and 93 weren’t wearing seatbelts. An additional 2,181 tickets were issued for various other Highway Safety Code infractions.

The main causes of serious accidents remain constant: speeding, distracted driving, and driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or fatigue. Police have been paying special attention to school zones, where children are most at risk.

This year’s campaign has a new focus: the explosion of electric transport devices on our streets. Health Canada recently raised red flags about e-bikes and electric scooters, particularly regarding battery safety risks.

“It seemed like there was a police car in every corner and more so on residential streets speaking to teens on bikes and checking stop signs that are often ignored,” an Île-Perrot resident told The Suburban. “We are used to seeing this in September at the start of the school year. It’s reassuring to see this reminder before summer when it gets really crazy around here with kids on bikes that go up to 40 kilometres an hour all over the place.”

Meanwhile, Transport Canada reports these devices currently sit in a regulatory “grey zone” when it comes to safety standards.

“With more electric bikes and scooters hitting our streets, we need to make sure everyone knows how to share the road safely,” the SQ stated. The provincial police force launched this campaign under the banner “Road Safety: I’m On Board.”

The operation has involved more than 30 law enforcement partners, including 28 municipal police departments across Quebec. Officers have been monitoring high-risk areas and focusing on dangerous behaviours that commonly lead to serious or fatal collisions. Special attention has been given to motorcycle safety as the spring season begins, along with proper compliance of safety corridors around emergency vehicles and tow trucks.

The campaign extends beyond enforcement. Road users have been seeing safety messages on television, radio, and billboards across the province since April 14, continuing until May 18. The initiative is part of a broader five-year plan to make Quebec roads safer, known as the Transport Network Safety Strategy 2021-2026, which operates under the motto “Human life at the heart of our actions.”

The strategy employs a comprehensive approach through five key pillars: Partnership, Intervention, Awareness, Technology, and Evaluation (PISTE). These coordinated efforts aim to reduce the number of collisions resulting in death or serious injury across SQ-patrolled territories.

Local residents have noticed increased police presence throughout the week-long campaign. The message remains clear for all road users – whether in vehicles, on e-bikes, or crossing streets — road safety rules will be strictly enforced. The SQ emphasizes that road safety is a shared responsibility, requiring cooperation from all users to ensure everyone’s protection on Quebec’s road network.

Quebec police forces intensify road safety operations Read More »

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