Local Journalism Initiative

CDN/NDG housing inspection blitz questioned

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By Joel Ceausu
The Suburban

Montreal’s housing inspection scheme was raised at CDN/NDG council this month, with resident Sylvia Rodriguez asking Loyola councillor and executive committee associate member responsible for housing and sanitation Despina Sourias about her announcement of an inspection blitz.

“Could you provide an update on the outcomes of this inspection blitz?” she wrote. “Specifically, what were the main issues identified and how has the city and borough addressed them so far?”

Borough Mayor Gracia Kasoki Katahwa responded for Sourias, who was absent from the July 2 council meeting. “Generally, the city has done preventive inspections in 28 buildings and 4,900 apartments in our borough. We noted that four of the buildings that counted 550 apartments needed further inspection that we have already done, and in one of the four inspections that we did the landlord was issued a ticket on the spot.” Other landlords were issued warnings and given 30 days to do repairs.

When problems are noted by inspectors, says Katahwa, the city contacts the owner “and we work with them to make sure that they make the corrections necessary. If they don’t, we give them fines that get more expensive if we need to go back to tell them to do the work, or to do the work on schedule.”

The borough waits 30 days after an inspection to give them the time to do the work, she adds, “except if it’s really urgent matters.”

Darlington councillor Stephanie Valenzuela asked for more details about the 28 buildings. “Can you give us a rundown of the buildings that have been inspected? In which district? And what is the plan for the next buildings that will be inspected over the next few months?” Katahwa said she could not provide that information on the spot, “so we’ll get back to you with more precise information.”

Valenzuela told The Suburban, “if we have a list of really bad buildings under terrible conditions, I want to see the list of those buildings and a plan for the next few months, especially if I’m aware of properties in my district on the list.” She also questioned when inspections began. “We have 12 borough inspectors but the city’s Service de l’habitation, which is completely different, has an entire plan dedicated to the worst buildings in the city. Hopefully I get an answer before the end of summer,” she scoffed, suggesting the lack of available information “goes to a lack of transparency that impacts my district.”

The Suburban asked the borough to clarify. As part of the city’s responsible landlord initiative, inspectors do preventive inspections across the borough without regards for district, explained borough support staffer Itai Azerrad. “The methodology is to start with the bigger buildings of 100-plus apartments and then inspect smaller ones.” The 28 properties cited were in the CDN-NDG pilot phase from January to May 2024. “These inspections allowed us to see the state of the building to either give a fine right away and/or refer it for another more in-depth inspection operation (Blitz) when certain criteria are met.” The plan moving forward, he says, is to do the same with six-plus unit properties. n

CDN/NDG housing inspection blitz questioned Read More »

Bienvenue à NDG gets $500K borough funding

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By Joel Ceausu
The Suburban

Bienvenue à NDG got some welcome news last week as borough council voted unanimously to give the organization $500,000 to continue its activities as a non-profit organization responsible for integration and Francization of immigrants.

The 12-year-old nonprofit is the only local organization mandated by the Ministry of Immigration, francization and integration (MIFI) for this mission, playing a key role in the first steps taken towards full integration into Quebec society by newcomers.

The $500,000 will be reserved from the borough’s available surplus to ensure financing over five years and help to help pay the rent ($100,000 annually from 2025-2029) at a new address.

Bienvenue à NDG found itself in a precarious situation since the owner of the building it occupies on Belgrave announced it would reclaim the premises for their own use, according to borough documents. That would jeopardize the organization and all its activities for new arrivals, which would have significant impact on more than 3,000 people from some 80 countries that benefit from their services.

Director Luis Miguel Cristancho told council the group was facing a turbulent times in the face of its imminent move, and “it is with immense gratitude and hope that we welcome today the financial support of $500,000 for rental costs,” thanking councillors and borough staff for their support.

The new location will be at 3830 Décarie, formerly the Caisse Desjardins de Notre-Dame-de-Grâce, a space expected to allow the NPO to improve access to services and the quality of programming.

According to the 2021 census, there is a higher percentage of recent immigrants in NDG (14%) than on the island of Montreal (8%). n

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Flood story didn’t end with the rain

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By Joel Goldenberg, Joel Ceausu and
Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Last week’s flood didn’t end with the rain. An owner of a 130-unit apartment building on Thimens in St. Laurent, across the street from the Raymond Bourque Arena, said her building’s garage was flooded with five feet of water. The area of the borough, including part of the Place Vertu parking lot, was flooded in scenes reminiscent of the July 14, 1987 disaster.

“We still don’t have any power back,” the owner told The Suburban Monday morning. “The water from the street emptied into our garage. There are 300 people in my building. Most of the apartments are double occupancy, [with seniors] and some families. The generators and the transformers were under water, everything was completely under water. The sewers in front of the garage were obviously blocked.”

The power finally came back Monday afternoon.

The owner has been calling the borough, and she hopes they install water retention basins in the area — a person from the arena said that has been under discussion, she said. She also says action is needed. Florida, which has intercoastal waterways and experiences many hurricanes, has water retention basins, she pointed out. She has also been calling Intact, her insurance company.

“I obviously made a claim on my insurance. Believe it or not, after calling them over and over again, they haven’t called me back. They’re extremely busy, they’re overloaded. My tenants are calling their insurance companies because their cars were flooded — we must have had 50 or 60 in the garage. Some cars were able to start and were taken out, and others were completely submerged.”

Terry Sousa was stuck at the south end of Décarie heading home after a four-day trip to the U.S. “I heard about the rain and figured I’d chance it once I crossed the border. It was a big mistake.” The Ahuntsic resident found himself with his wife and nine-year-old son “inching, I wouldn’t say inching, we were centimetering!” along as traffic was routed off Décarie north.

After 90-plus minutes he got off and tried to snake his way east towards l’Acadie to catch what he hoped would be an easier 15 north of the Met. “Another mistake. All around it was a mess. What should have taken 40 minutes max took three hours. I’m so glad I filled up on gas before I crossed the border. I felt so smart I was saving money, which I lost along with all that time. Imagine though if we were stranded bumper-to-bumper on a flooded Décarie and couldn’t move the car?” His home, an older duplex, was unaffected by the torrential rains, but his new garden “was toast. My tenant said they looked down and it was a pool of muck. That’s a big cleanup but I’m not complaining. I know some people got hit hard.”

Anna from downtown Montreal said the traffic congestion increased following the storm as main roads were blocked off intermittently until the weekend. “I just took a day off work, I used up one of my sick days because spending an extra hour on the road each way trying to get around means I have to rearrange pick up and drop off for my kid and it’s just not possible. Everyone else would be inconvenienced the same way. A lot of people have switched to working from home with the way traffic is already. The roads in Montreal are already a disaster for drivers and they say we should just bike everywhere. I am very athletic but for those of us who need to carpool with our families, we can’t just bike-pool especially while there is a pool in the middle of our road.” n

Flood story didn’t end with the rain Read More »

West Island comes together to remember “The Twelve”

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By Chelsey St-Pierre and Beryl Wajsman, Editor
The Suburban

This past weekend, the West Island Black Community Association (WIBCA) held a memorial service on Saturday afternoon followed by a church service Sunday morning at Union United Church in Little Burgundy to commemorate the twelve children from the Negro Community Centre who tragically drowned in a boating accident on July 13, 1954 off Ile Bizard. The theme was “Remember their names.” The families of the victims also shared their grief and expressed their gratitude to the West Island community.

“This year marks the 70th year since this heartbreaking event, and plans are underway to honor the memory of these young lives lost. The children took part in a summer outing organized by the Negro Community Centre in Little Burgundy and were involved in one of the deadliest boating accidents in Canadian history. This tragedy not only devastated families but also brought to light significant issues regarding water safety and systemic challenges faced by many from marginalized communities,” WIBCA president Joan Lee said.

There were over 60 children, who were part of the Negro Community Centre (NCC) that was connected to Union United Church, who looked forward to their outing on that fateful day. Lee told The Suburban prior to the event that remembering the names of the 12 was at the heart of this commemorative weekend, but that it also serves as an opportunity to discuss and bring light to issues surrounding the Black community and highlighting strengths and perseverance through difficulties faced historically and today.

Denzil Alleyne, Margo and Marilyn Fonseca, Brenda Kelly, Carol and Alan Leek, Paula Millington, Leon Nealey, Edwin and Diane Springer, Doreen Walton, and Estelle Walton were the names read out loud and memorialized on Saturday and Sunday. West Islanders and Montrealers gathered in the names of the twelve with the sorrowful sentiment of remembering the past coupled with the sense of creating a better future.

“This memorial is not just about remembering a tragic event but also about acknowledging the resilience of a community and the ongoing fight for safety and equality,” Lee stated. “It also served as a reminder and acknowledgment of the resilience of the black community and its continued fight for equality.”

Recognition was given to David Tagieff, who was 12 years old at the time, and who saved two children. Recognition was also given to those who helped families in healing, even after 70 years of silently dealing with this tradegy in their families. n

West Island comes together to remember “The Twelve” Read More »

Councillor slams ‘Save Lachine Hospital’ signs

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By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

At the most recent public council meeting in Lachine, City Councillor Micheline Rouleau ventured out with an independent speech, not discussed by council, concerning the Save the Lachine Hospital citizens committee’s latest efforts to raise awareness about the non-existent ICU at the hospital by placing lawn signs on private property throughout the municipality. Rather than join the fight for a fully functional hospital, Rouleau gave a speech slamming the efforts.

“You are harming the population and yourselves [by putting up the signs],” Rouleau told attendees at the public council meeting. “I am asking a favour to all those who have signs in front of their homes to take them down because you are creating an incredible stress to the hospital employees, the patients and to the foundation because we need to collect $5 million by 2026 to buy things not provided by the government.”

Rouleau is the co-president of The Lachine Hospital Foundation which raises funds for the Lachine Hospital and stated the the signs were harmful to the fundraising efforts of the Foundation. “We (the Foundation) are moving forward while others are holding back and it is unhealthy. If people hear a bad reputation of the hospital, while there is not actually, everything is going well, then we will find ourselves with a lack of staff because people will have heard that it will not work,” she stated. Rouleau goes on to say that certain donors are holding back and telling the Foundation that they “won’t make donations unless the hospital will be a fully functional hospital.”

Lachine Mayor Maja Vodanovic, a long time supporter of the Save the Lachine Hospital committee and co-chair at the Lachine Hospital Foundation, was visibly surprised by Rouleau’s comments. When questioned about her reaction by The Suburban, she responded that “What Mme. Rouleau said at the council meeting was unexpected. It was not discussed prior in caucus and it took me by surprise. Although I believe Mme. Rouleau was well intentioned, she was not speaking in the name of the whole council.”

Dr. Paul Saba, who was honoured by the City of Lachine recently at a gala for his efforts towards the Lachine Hospital, says he was also shocked by Rouleau’s comments. “This is a collective effort, supported by the population, medical professionals and elected officials. A fully functional hospital requires an ICU and we are positively advocating for something that is beneficial to the hospital and to the patients. Lawn signs raising awareness is a positive effort. Anyone who advocates against a hospital having an ICU which is the heart of the hospital is advocating to put patients’ health and lives at risk and this is unacceptable. Studies have shown that ICUs save lives. What is more ‘stressful’ — having an ICU or not having an ICU? I don’t understand the purpose of advocating against the population’s determination to have an ICU in their local community hospital.”

The Suburban reached out to Micheline Rouleau, who did not respond for comment. n

Councillor slams ‘Save Lachine Hospital’ signs Read More »

Langevin calls latest city homeless consult “a smokescreen”

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By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

The City of Montreal in collaboration with the Montreal Regional Health Authority (CIUSSS) and the Health and Social Services Network is launching a major public consultation which will be conducted by the Public Consultation Office of Montreal (OCPM) “to gather the opinions of the population concerning the conditions for success leading to the harmonious integration of resources dedicated to people experiencing homelessness or of vulnerability in the metropolitan areas.”

At the announcement, the Plante administration acknowledged the increasing pressure on community organizations and promises that “new” solutions to respond to the urgency of the situation will emerge from the consultation process. Pierrefonds-Roxboro City Councillor and the Official Opposition spokesperson on Homelessness Benoit Langevin is calling this announcement another “smokescreen” in the midst of a humanitarian crisis.

“We are seeing that more and more residents, parents, families and business owners are concerned about the way resources are planned in their area and we must do better in anticipation of increasing needs. We have heard the population and we want to involve citizens and community organizations in the search for clear tools and guidelines to improve our practices and ensure more harmonious integration of aid resources in the territory. If we want to adequately respond to the growing needs of vulnerable people, all stakeholders must do more to better plan the opening of resources in neighborhoods and take into account the needs of the population. We must move forward with lucidity while understanding the real issues linked to cohabitation and the feeling of security so that everyone can live with dignity and security in Montreal,” Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante stated.

Dr. Mylène Drouin, regional director of public health for the Montreal region, is calling the circumstances surrounding homelessness a public health crisis. “Visible homelessness is increasing and changing in Montreal. This is a complex phenomenon that has multiple facets. It is important to propose responses adapted to these different aspects while ensuring that the voice of the population, including that of marginalized people and people experiencing homelessness, is included in this consultation effort.”

Langevin told The Suburban that this announcement is a delaying tactic and that persons experiencing homelessness in this city take no immediate or short term benefit from these “talks”. Langevin says he even doubts the long-term benefits as he has seen no concrete action that leads him to trust the new proposed process. “I am seriously asking, why do we need a consultation to know ‘how to consult’? This is prolonging a process. After six years of opening and closing shelters — why does Montreal now need a public consultation to produce a report? Did they not state numerous times that they consulted with the organizations?” n

Langevin calls latest city homeless consult “a smokescreen” Read More »

DDO doctor innocent of all charges

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By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

“You are innocent of these charges. You are free to go,” Ontario Superior Court Justice Kevin Phillips told Dr. Brian Nadler of Dollard-des-Ormeaux last week as he was acquitted of four first-degree murder charges and four counts of criminal negligence causing death.

This high-profile murder case was about to start when the Crown declined to call any witnesses to testify on behalf of the prosecution or provide evidence. Nadler’s defense lawyer Brian Greenspan, who notably represented many high profile clients including Mike DaSilva, Justin Bieber and Naomi Campbell, told The Suburban that the primary expert witness in the case was not in fact an expert. “Without that witness, the Crown had no reasonable prospect of conviction,” he explained. Crown attorney Robin Flumerfelt told the court Tuesday that the prosecution was left with no reasonable prospect of a conviction following the decision to exclude its main witness. “For all practical purposes, these rulings have decided the case against the Crown,” Flumerfelt stated to the Court.

Nadler consistently maintained his innocence from the day of his arrest by Hawkesbury OPP officers at the Hawkesbury General Hospital in Ontario on March 25, 2021. Nadler was removed from his place of work and has spent the last three years facing severe criminal charges.

Nadler is a McGill University graduate who was licensed to practice medicine in Quebec, but never had. Post graduation, Dr. Nadler practiced medicine in Alberta, Saskatchewan and the United States before he became licensed to practice in Ontario in February 2020.

Nadler had pleaded not guilty to all charges at his arraignment. The Crown has not made a decision on an appeal. The Crown can only appeal following an acquittal, not when charges are withdrawn or stayed. “Whether they appeal or not, 30 days will tell us,” Greenspan told The Suburban. “Their appeal would have to rely on the expert witness that was ruled to be inadmissible. “ Greenspan says that he is prepared to make the arguments necessary in the face of any appeal and has nine expert witnesses lined up. “We have five pathologists that are government employees, not retained by us including the Ontario chief pathologist, all who have ruled the cause of death to be due to COVID-19 in each case. We have two toxicologists that are prepared to testify that the drugs administered by Dr. Nadler were not the cause of death. We have two palliative care physicians who are prepared to testify that the drugs administered were within the appropriate range for palliative care patients. The Crown prosecutor had a hematologist that does not agree, but his opinion was ruled inadmissible.”

Greenspan says that since the publication ban was lifted on Tuesday that it is important for the families of the four deceased patients to know that the postmortem exams determined that they died of COVID-19 or had pre-existing conditions prior to catching the virus, a fact that was always maintained by Nadler as he professed his innocence. Following his acquittal, Nadler has launched civil action against the hospital.

“Each of the four deaths was the tragic result of the outbreak of the virulent Delta strain of Covid-19 at the Hawkesbury General Hospital in March 2021. It is also tragic that Dr. Nadler’s life and reputation have been clouded by the innuendo of suspicion surrounding these deaths for the past three years,” Greenspan said. n

DDO doctor innocent of all charges Read More »

A rainbow of joy at West Island Blues Fest

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By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

The West Island Blues Festival took place in Dollard-des-Ormeaux last Saturday with its first free outdoor event for 2024. Tone 11 kicked off the festivities while the BBQ’s were fired up at 3 p.m. Attendees “trickled in”, the term WIBF co-founder DDO Councillor Errol Johnson used to describe the first hours of the event to The Suburban. “I just love this part, watching everyone come in as we greet them at the entrance.” With a smile on throughout the entire day, side by side with WIBF co-founder Pierrefonds-Roxboro Mayor Jim Beis, each attendee was given a warm welcome. “We are excited to be back here again this year where it all started,” Beis told The Suburban. DDO park was the first location at the launch of the WIBF 21 years ago. “When we started, we did not even have a stage, but we had fun and it just keeps getting better and better,” Johnson explained.

Local talent, Rachel Dara performed several songs in between band set-ups. Fans were drawn in by her guitar and vocal solo performance. Later in the afternoon, Salah & Family Steel Pan Band rocked the dance floor while the smell of jerk chicken and Caribbean spices breezed through the park. “This is a family affair. My father figured, ‘how do you keep six kids busy?’, so we started a band,” Rachel Wilson, the eldest sibling and member of the band told The Suburban. In total, twenty-two family members belonging to four generations have joined the band intermittently over the years.

Inus Aso Raggae Band kept the party going strong with upbeat, downbeat and side-beat tunes through the suppertime hours. A rainbow came across the sky for the last thirty minutes of their performance creating a picturesque scene that generated a sense of awe for attendees.The Mike Goudreau Band took over the early evening performance slot at sundown followed by Jack De Keyzer.

The 2024 beneficiary representatives came on stage and included Denise Hupé for ABOVAS, Jacquie McGowan for the West Island Woman’s shelter, Joan Lee for the West Island Community Black Association, Leslie Carr for Literacy Unlimited and Christian Dubé for Centre Bienvenue. “It is such a privilege to be counted for the first time this year as one for the beneficiaries for this awesome festival,” Hupé told The Suburban. n

A rainbow of joy at West Island Blues Fest Read More »

Two cars torched in Dorval parking lot

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By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Two vehicles parked in a residential lot in Dorval were a total loss following a fire last week that Montreal Police (SPVM) are investigating as arson.

Firefighters quickly put out the flames spitting from an SUV and a van parked side by side in the parking lot on the property of a private residence on Joubert Avenue, near Lakeshore Road. Both vehicles were engulfed in flames when firefighters arrived. The immediate priority was to avoid the spread of the flames to the residence and neighbouring residences, which was done successfully.

Firefighters summoned police to investigate. No accelerants were found at the scene. Police officers taped off the driveway and investigators from the SPVM arson unit examined the site and the vehicles were towed to undergo further examination in order to better determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.

No arrests in connection with this incident have been made to date. n

Two cars torched in Dorval parking lot Read More »

Ricochet opens new location for West Island’s homeless

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By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Ricochet, the West Island’s only homeless shelter, reopened at a new location this past Monday following the abrupt closure that took place at the end of May.The shelter was waiting for its new permanent location set for January, when it was ordered to vacate the premises at its previous temporary location which caused 48 shelter users to be back out on the street.

Tania Charron, the executive director of Ricochet, was devastated for her clients and pulled in the resources to provide them with backpacks, bus tickets and as many supplies as possible that she could gather with a two-week notice. Ricochet staff remained in contact to the best of their ability with shelter users while Charron worked tirelessly to find a new temporary location. After weeks of meetings with public and private landlords, city officials and real estate professionals, Charron was able to pull it off. “This is a huge relief, I can finally sleep better knowing that we can accomplish our mission. For me it was a tragedy, so knowing that we can open a 24/7 program that will have an impact on the lives of people is so important,” Charron told The Suburban.

The Montreal Ignatian Spirituality Centre agreed to rent their building to Ricochet for a year, as the previous tenants, a successful YMCA program for Ukrainian refugees in transition, has recently vacated the premises.

The new temporary Ricochet Centre will be located at 9451 Boulevard Gouin West in Pierrefonds. The beautiful grounds surrounding the building, that was originally designed for a Jesuit monastery, will give shelter users additional comfort during their stay. “Our new temporary location will be a true haven, allowing Ricochet beneficiaries to rest and recharge,” Charron said. “The large wooded area by the water, combined with better-adapted facilities, including a kitchen, cafeteria, and more showers, will perfectly meet our needs.”

Ricochet’s 24/7 shelter service will allow beneficiaries to rest, eat, shower, wash their clothes, and be redirected to other specialized services as needed. They will also receive support and guidance from psychosocial workers, a practice that is at the heart of the organization. With 48 permanent beds at the Ricochet Centre, the shelter not only provides a roof but also helps vulnerable people and veterans reintegrate into society by offering a stable environment, psychosocial support, and guidance towards housing stability.

Shuttle and social mediation services remain in place to facilitate access to Ricochet’s services and promote harmonious relationships in the community.

“We knew that the Ricochet Centre wouldn’t be closed for long because our organization is known for achieving the impossible,” Charron said. n

Ricochet opens new location for West Island’s homeless Read More »

“Come clean my street” demand CDN/NDG residents

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By Joel Ceausu
The Suburban

It’s an enduring issue across the borough. Whether it’s parks with inadequate garbage cans, city streets not cleaned, sewers blocked, or garbage overflowing sidewalks, CDN-NDG’s cleanliness problem is exacerbated come summer, especially around moving season.

West Hill resident Rhiannon Colley told council last week that it is frustrating her and her neighbours between Sherbrooke and De Maisonneuve. “I’ve had to stop one of the businesses (on Sherbrooke) from power-washing their oil hoods into the alley that comes down West Hill, so we have grease coming down the street. They also put out garbage, not in bins, so with the winds on the corner it’s coming down the street, and we’ve got that to deal with.”

It’s not only businesses, says Colley, because Mother Nature also contributes her share. “We have beautiful mature trees, but they shed a lot of branches, leaves and what-not. This spring the cleaning wasn’t done properly and so all our sewers are clogged with gunk from these trees, plus garbage from the businesses.”

She says she’s called the city repeatedly: “I’ve asked, I’ve done, I’ve used the app a few times too, and it keeps saying my service request has been processed and it has been rectified, but I haven’t seen any change.” She told The Suburban: “It seems to fall on deaf ears.”

“I’m just asking if it’s possible,” she asked council, “to come clean our street? Please?”

Borough Mayor Gracia Kasoki Katahwa told her “we’re going to see what’s going on,” and recalled the borough’s recently launched cleanliness awareness campaign, adding, “It’s for each and everyone of us to take our responsibility regarding cleanliness, yes individuals, but also merchants.” She said the borough’s economic commissioners work with merchants on commercial streets to advise them of their responsibilities.

The campaign with catchy graphics and slogan was subject of another question about cost, and what concrete measures are in place to improve not only commercial and arterial streets but residential, especially given the number of overflowing garbage cans during the last two long weekends.

Katahwa said the $50,000 campaign is a tool, but added in recent weeks, “there is a lot more litter and so on because people move. We apply a kind of tolerance and then we also deploy more collections to go and clean certain sectors which are perhaps a little more difficult… Obviously it is our responsibility in the borough to ensure that trash is collected and that the district will remain clean, however it is important, and there are several asking us, to raise awareness among their fellow citizens about cleanliness.”

She says initiatives like hiring park wardens and exploring ways with building owners and residents to keep areas clean are part of the overall plan. Borough employees will go door-to-door in the coming months to discuss the issue, “although in certain neighbourhoods it’s more difficult to speak directly with citizens if they have questions on managing their waste,” adding that organizations like SOCENV help citizens better manage waste issues. n

“Come clean my street” demand CDN/NDG residents Read More »

Scarce resources force major NDG Food Depot cutback

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By Joel Ceausu
The Suburban

At the crossroads of inflation, food deserts, soaring rents, unemployment, housing shortages and other poverty factors, lies a single plate of food that may — or may not – be served to someone who is hungry.

Those realities made a hard decision harder, as NDG’s Depot cut back its four-day Resto Marché meal program by a full day, meaning 300 fewer meals will likely be served each week in the west end.

The announcement shocked many but was no surprise to those paying attention. “We saw it coming,” executive director Tasha Lackman told The Suburban. “It was a hard decision and we’re afraid there’s going to be more hard announcements coming.”

The 10-year-old meal program is one of a dozen programs at the Depot, founded in a church basement in 1986 to meet emergency needs. The scale of demand, effectively tripling in two years, and scarcity of resources created a perfect storm. “A year ago, 200 people was considered a really busy day.” Now, 300 per day is normal. Normal maybe, but not tenable.

“We’re working by trial and error to ensure we serve the community with dignity and respect,” says Lackman. “If we had unlimited resources we could hire more people,” noting 25-30 volunteers help out daily. Despite shaving off a little more time on two of the three remaining days to lighten the load for volunteers and staff, they still serve about 900 meals weekly.

The team is “working to the bone, doing unpaid overtime, and drained,” with relentless pressure to turn over tables and serve more. “You’re not able to connect, rushing through the space waiting on tables, asking people to leave. People get impatient and it creates conflict.”

Depot fundraising efforts grew their budget (from $2.5 million to $4 million over a few years) with indexed provincial funding comprising some 3.5%. Local groups are pushing Quebec to boost funding for food security organizations, as food costs outpaced inflation while demand tripled. “If they could boost it 50%, it could take the pressure off.” Last fiscal year contributions from all governments amounted to slightly more than 17% of their budget, the balance from Centraide, private and public foundations, corporate and some 2,000 individual donors.

It’s a major, but necessary hustle. Last year the Depot received some $450,000 worth of food from Moisson Montréal and had to purchase $920,000 more across all its programs. “We spend a tremendous amount of time and effort fundraising, not on our core mission.” Sadly, says Lackman, philanthropy will never resolve food insecurity. “The call to action is to the government. With 25% of Canadians food insecure, every group working in food security recognizes these organizations are underfunded, and we’re all making these painful decisions.”

In January, the Depot stopped accepting new families for food baskets, receiving 100-150 applications every month with a waiting list of 500 families. They “whittled it down” with temporary extended hours and extra shifts to some 150 waiting families.

“Corrie,” 42, gets one weekly meal here, another two downtown. “There are people who will have to scramble,” she told The Suburban. “There are resources around Montreal if you’re hungry, but it takes lots of energy to get them and keep hoping life gets better.”

“It’s not the obligations of community organizations and philanthropy to solve food insecurity,” says Lackman. “It’s about income, about not having enough money to buy food.” n

Scarce resources force major NDG Food Depot cutback Read More »

“Beyond the shadows” tackles Quebec racism

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By Joel Ceausu
The Suburban

Call it a tutorial, rallying cry, guidebook or roadmap, but it’s certainly an eye-opener. It’s also necessary, says Joel DeBellefeuille, executive director of the Red Coalition anti-racism lobby group, and one of Quebec’s leading voices in the fight against racial discrimination.

Beyond the Shadows: Confronting systemic racism in Quebec, is a 55-page e-book (available on Amazon) penned by DeBellefeuille to highlight what has long been in the shadows: the causes, impacts, enablers, and obstacles to the eradication of systemic racism.

DeBellefeuille takes pains to highlight important factors, such as the provincial government’s denial of the very existence of systemic racism in Quebec; blocking permanent residents from becoming police officers; lack of specificity in public union collective agreements when dealing with racial discrimination complaints; and finally, the inability of the Commission des droits de la personne et des droits de la jeunesse (CDPDJ) to hear complaints from unionized employees.

These all contribute to a climate where change is sclerotic at best, he told The Suburban. “Descriptive actions for collective agreements and the CDPDJ accepting unionized complaints; these two things alone will change the face of racism and discrimination in the province.”

He says the timing is important for disseminating this information, to give people a broader understanding of these issues “that many people inside Quebec and most outside Quebec are not aware of. We need to bring this to the attention of everybody and highlight these issues.”

Quebec has a particular challenge since the government’s position “creates a domino effect on everything going on in the province and lets it persist,” he says, adding that’s exacerbated by language issues and laws like Bill 96 which contribute to the general problem. “The Premier, and the current party don’t have anti-racism legislation in place to address these issues” he says, rather they simply rely on ad hoc policy announcements.

The book includes sections on what other jurisdictions are doing; the role of the CDPDJ, the groundbreaking Yergeau — Luamba decision, recommendations for reform, Quebec hot zones, police accountability and DeBellefeuille’s own historic cases.

Beyond the Shadows is an easy read, and a $7 investment in civic awareness, a useful tool as multiple jurisdictions move closer towards elections and people seek information on these important issues. n

“Beyond the shadows” tackles Quebec racism Read More »

SPVM breaks up major shisha tobacco smuggling ring, 69 arrested

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Joel Goldenberg
The Suburban

The SPVM announced last Thursday that it has broken up a shisha tobacco smuggling network, seizing 9,300 kg of the contraband material worth $4.2 million.

The operation was the result of several months of investigation by the SPVM, which concluded June 26. Previous seizures last year were of much smaller amounts, and had taken place in St. Laurent and other locales.

“The investigation, led by the SPVM’s ACCES Tabac unit, in close collaboration with neighbourhood stations and the Laval Police Department, also led to the seizure of 3,650 cartons of contraband cigarettes, 35 vehicles and $158,000 in cash,” an SPVM statement says. “In total, 85 searches were carried out, the majority of them inside businesses, residences and vehicles in the boroughs of St. Laurent, Ahuntsic–Cartierville, Côte-des-Neiges–Notre- Dame-de-Grâce and Montréal North, as well as in the Laval territory. Warehouses located in the Toronto area were also targeted by investigators.”

The SPVM arrested 69 suspects between the ages of 19 and 79, “under the Tobacco Tax Act. The file from this investigation, which began in the fall of 2023, was submitted to Revenue Quebec prosecutors so that charges could be filed.

The SPVM pointed out that the ACCES program “is funded by the government of Quebec and coordinated by the Ministry of Public Security. The SPVM’s ACCES Tabac unit is dedicated to the fight against tobacco smuggling and aims, among other things, to ensure healthy competition for legitimate commerce.”

The police explained that the investigation started “following a series of crimes targeting businesses selling illicit shisha.

“The SPVM continues to monitor the situation closely. Anyone with information can contact 911 or their local station. It is also possible to communicate anonymously and confidentially with Info-Crime Montréal at 514 393-1133 or via the reporting form available on the infocrimemontreal.ca website.”

SPVM breaks up major shisha tobacco smuggling ring, 69 arrested Read More »

Week of antisemitic incidents includes posters and cemetery vandalism

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

By Joel Goldenberg
The Suburban

A dozen posters with swastikas seen in Outremont saying the federal Conservatives and Liberals, and provincial CAQ, and Mount Royal MP Anthony Housefather, are aligned with Nazis because of their support of Israel, have been roundly condemned.

The posters related to Housefather, taped up at several corners in Outremont and the Mile End, says the MP declared “we helped build this country” and features an Israeli flag with a swastika instead of the Star of David. The poster also features a Nazi flag attributing the building of the Autobahn and “much more” to the Third Reich. Housefather is then equated to a neo-Nazi, and encourages him to “get out of Canada.”

The MP posted a response last week, saying on X “my family has been here since the 19th century and we have indeed helped build this country. I am not going anywhere. Sorry antisemites. You may not like what I have to say but I will keep saying it and I will keep being a proud Jew and a Zionist.”

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau posted, “Anthony, I’m angry that this happened to you. It’s antisemitic, and it’s disgusting. Jewish Canadians indeed helped build this country and will always have a home here. We stand with you, and the entire community, against this hate.”

The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs stated on social media, “thank you Anthony Housefather for always wearing your Jewish and Canadian identities proudly. Antisemitism and hate directed towards public officials (or anyone) has no place in Canada.”

Deborah Lyons, Canada’s Special Envoy For Preserving Holocaust Remembrance and Combatting Antisemitism, wrote, “this sign is not only targeting Anthony Housefather, “but all Jewish Canadians, 90 percent of whom could be defined as Zionists. Our country has gained so much from the contributions of our Jewish community; it is past time for the rest of us to come together and say ‘no more.’ It is our duty to stand in front of them to protect them, behind them to support them, and beside them in true friendship.”

Late last week, Trudeau named Housefather his Special Advisor on Jewish Community Relations and Antisemitism. Housefather’s role will be to “advise the Prime Minister and ministers on the development and co-ordination of the Government of Canada’s work to combat antisemitism.”

On Canada Day, the stones on top of several gravestones at the Kehal Israel cemetery in DDO were rearranged in the shape of a swastika.

Hampstead Mayor Jeremy Levi commented that, “it is absolutely abhorrent and revolting to defile the dead with swastikas. This desecration at the Kehal Israel cemetery in Montreal is beyond contempt. Justin Trudeau, step aside and get out of the way so we can reclaim our country.”

Federal Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre retweeted Levi’s post and wrote, “we cannot close our eyes to the disgusting acts of antisemitism that are happening in our country every day. The Prime Minister must finally act to stop these displays of antisemitism. If he won’t, a common sense Conservative government will.”

CIJA posted, “should we therefore ask ourselves whether the vision of Valérie Plante is that of a metropolis where antisemitism can flourish freely, to the detriment of the tranquility and success of its citizens and its entrepreneurs? Is it that of a city where one can calmly and without consequence come and defile a Jewish grave with a filthy swastika?”

B’nai Brith Canada stated that, sadly “this is not an isolated incident, but part of a disturbing pattern of unchecked and unmitigated antisemitism plaguing the city. Such acts of hatred cannot be tolerated. The Jewish community in Montreal deserves safety and respect. Not enough is being done! Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante must do more than offer words of condemnation. We demand immediate and concrete action to combat antisemitism in the City of Montreal. The time for passive responses is over.”

The Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Centre also reacted, posting “this incident is another reminder of what Canadian Jews are up against. What will it take for Plante and all leaders to take concrete action to confront this hatred that’s invading our communities?” n

Week of antisemitic incidents includes posters and cemetery vandalism Read More »

United Against Hate group officially launches

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Joel Goldenberg
The Suburban

The nation-wide United Against Hate group founded by former Snowdon councillor and former B’nai Brith Canada League For Human Rights director Marvin Rotrand, active since January, has officially launched.

Rotrand, the Director General of the organization, told a Zoom press conference that the group is now registered as a non-profit and that June 19 the official launch date is also the birth anniversary of Dr. José Rizal, a national hero of the Philippines, “someone who stood for racial equality and brotherhood, and good relations between nations,” and fought against antisemitism.

Rotrand said United Against Hate will now accelerate its activities, and said the organization was created to “fill a void.

“We wanted to promote cross-cultural dialogue and highlight the contributions of Canada’s diverse population to the country’s success,” he said. “We felt that no other group was doing what we wished to do. We are non-governmental, non-partisan, multicultural, multi-racial and devoted to combating hate by building bridges. We leverage the strength of communities to aid each other.”

The group’s mission includes “promoting cross cultural communication with a focus on dialogue between different religious and racial minorities; combating the unprecedented upsurge in antisemitism witnessed in Canada over the past months; promoting dialogue between Jews and Muslims in Canada and highlighting the contributions of the many diverse communities to Canada’s well being and success including promoting the heritage months of racial and religious minorities.”

United Against Hate’s board members are: Perry Balendra – Former President, Tamil Association of Canada; Will Barclay – Academic, former Research and Data Analyst at B’nai Brith Canada; Frank Baylis – former Member of Parliament for Pierrefonds – Dollard; Alton Brooks – former Board member Jamaica Canadian Association of Ontario; Bashir Hussein – President, Council of South Asian Communities; Ellie Israel – School Commissioner at the English Montreal School Board; Dougald Lamont, former MLA and outgoing leader Manitoba Liberal Party, Norberto Mandin – Founder, CPRM Community Radio, Luzviminda Mazzone – President, Federation of Filipino Canadian Associations and Gemma Raeburn Baynes – President, Playmas Caribbean Cultural Association.

Rotrand said his group has already called for a second national summit to combat antisemitism, issued an open letter signed by 200 prominent Canadians “demanding that the Government of Canada act in light of an unprecedented wave of hate aimed at Jews seen over the last months,” has been “asked to speak at Mullivaikkal Remembrance Day by Tamil organizations, collaborated with Bangladeshi groups to urge Canada to continue to provide support for Rohingya refugees and is fostering links with the Cypriot community in advance of the 50th anniversary of the invasion and continued occupation of that country by the Republic of Türkiye,” and working with provinces to promote better Holocaust education, working with the Iranian diaspora to support a Canadian ban om the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps,” amongst other accomplishments.

(As the Zoom call was proceeding, news broke on CBC that Canada was about to proclaim the IRGC a terrorist organization according to the Criminal Code. Rotrand told The Suburban he was “thrilled. We support the same position as many other Jewish and Iranian groups do.)

Baylis told the Zoom call that the work of United Against Hate is extremely important.

He added that while Canadians generally live in peace, we now see “ugly signs of discrimination, of hate bubbling up, and unless we stand up and speak to it, it’s like we accept it. The rise in antisemitism is unacceptable.”

Mazzone said United Against Hate is a “much needed tool to build dialogue and collaboration amongst our country’s diverse communities.”

United Against Hate group officially launches Read More »

New provisions of Bill 96 demands more French on signs

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

By Joel Goldenberg
The Suburban

The Quebec government has announced that new sign law provisions of Bill 96 will take effect next June 1, and it focuses on the size and prominence of French on outdoor commercial signs, including in relation to store names trademarked only in English.

On the other hand, the aspect of Bill 96 requiring more French content on engraved markings on appliances has been delayed.

“In Quebec, when Quebecers and tourists stroll through the streets, it must be clear, Quebec is a French-speaking nation,” French language minister Jean-Francois Roberge said last week.

The legislation says French on signs must have a greater impact “in the visual field” than English, and take up two-thirds of the space on the sign.

More specifically, the law says, “where texts both in French and in another language appear on the same sign or poster, the text in French is deemed to have a much greater visual impact if the following conditions are met —the space allotted to the text in French is at least twice as large as the space allotted to the text in the other language; the characters used in the text in French are at least twice as large as those used in the text in the other language; and “the other characteristics of the sign or poster do not have the effect of reducing the visual impact of the text in French.”

The new regulations also tighten up the pre-Bill 96 requirement that a French descriptor accompany a trademark that is only registered in English, such as Best Buy, Winners and Subway, amongst many others. The Quebec government has complained that not all businesses with English trademarked names are respecting the existing regulations. Bill 96 is now requiring that the French aspects of these signs have a greater visual impact, rather than just a “sufficient presence” under the current rules.

Currently, many descriptors, such as “Électroniques” for Best Buy” and “Mode” for Winners, are less prominent than the English-language business name. For instance, the Best Buy descriptor is smaller in font size and is white, while the Best Buy logo is more prominent — not only larger in size but in more visible colours, yellow and black. The “Mode” descriptor is much smaller than the trademark name “Winners” and is below the store name.

Now, the French presence on such signs has to be twice that of the English. A graphic provided by the Quebec government provides two ways the law applies — one is that the descriptor of the store, such as “clothing”, is twice as large as the store name; and the other is that there is more French content, not only a general descriptor, but further descriptions of what the store sells, such as “shoes” and “fashion for everyone.” These do not have to be larger than the English-trademarked name.

Michel Rochette of the Retail Council of Canada has contended that the sign changes will cost businesses between $20 million and $25 million to comply with the law 11 months from now, as opposed to the Quebec government’s estimate of $7 million to $15 million.The Retail Council had called for the law to take effect three years after its publication, as originally promised, and the organization is also calling for financial aid for its members. n

New provisions of Bill 96 demands more French on signs Read More »

Lawyers’ protest attacks Plante on homeless hypocrisy

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

By Joel Goldenberg
The Suburban

Hundreds of people attended a downtown rally last week to call out Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante on what speakers said is her hypocrisy regarding the ongoing anti-Israel encampments and the situation of the homeless in Montreal.

There was a heavy police presence amongst the anti-Israel crowd at Victoria Square, and at one point, police took away an anti-Israel activist who tried to approach the counter-protest. The Victoria Square encampment, where the Victoria statue was vandalized, has been in place since June 22 and the McGill encampment has been in place since April 27.

Lawyer Peter Villani told the crowd that he wants everybody, including the anti-Israel protesters, to use the downtown park this summer.

“But they’re telling me, and this is the message I want you to take home, that I have no right over there!” he said. “Imagine that! A beautiful city park that the city spent a lot of money updating. Many of my colleagues spend their lunch hours there. And they’re telling me I can’t go there?! Really, in Montreal, it’s a no-go zone for us?! C’mon!”

Villani also told the crowd the rally is about democracy “and telling our Mayor that this has to stop, that we’ve had enough of the insults to people, enough of the defacing of public and private property!

“Things need to change in the city, because the way we’re going, it’s a very slippery slope away from the rule of law. What’s happening in the city is a loss of the sense of democracy and the rule of law! This is what, as lawyers, we need to make sure that we signal whatever happens on our streets, in our neighbourhoods, to our children, that’s there’s no way any group should have to suffer what we’re suffering right now. This makes no freaking sense!”

Villani said Plante is faster to act on homeless encampments than the anti-Israel variety.

“The homeless are the most vulnerable in our society! Why is she doing that and not taking the [anti-Israel] encampment down? This is not about what’s happening in the Middle East, it’s about what’s happening here in our city of Montreal!”

Villani said his parents escaped from fascist Italy “so they wouldn’t have to put up with all of that.

“And what’s happening here? What’s happening to our liberties?!”

Lawyer Alyssa Yufe, a community volunteer, spoke about values and the law.

“It’s time to call attention to the stark difference between the way that our laws apply to camps for the unhoused and the way our laws are being applied to hateful camps in downtown Montreal that are operating under the guise of freedom of expression”

Yufe added that the unhoused population in Montreal has increased by 33 percent during the time Valérie Plante has been Mayor.

“Last year alone, 426 homeless camps were dismantled. Do you know who dismantled them?! The police, under the orders of Valérie Plante! At the same time, Plante, by her actions or inactions, is encouraging residents and non-residents of Quebec to take over public and private greenspaces in Montreal and appropriate them for hateful and even illegal agendas!”

Yufe said that in Montreal, one can be fined for sleeping on a park bench, with a fine of up to $1,000 for a second offence.

“A law like this is unfair, even when it’s consistently applied to all. It’s only poor people with no choice who have to resort to sleeping on park benches. So fining the unhoused is bad. Do you know what’s worse? That the law is not even being applied consistently! The encampments here before us and at McGill are being allowed to stay!”

The event was organized by members of the Montreal legal community and attended by Federation CJA CEO Yair Szlak and Rabbi Reuben Poupko, amongst others. n

Lawyers’ protest attacks Plante on homeless hypocrisy Read More »

“City of Montreal is largest slumlord’: MEI

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

By Joel Goldenberg
The Suburban

The Montreal Economic Institute says that the Plante administration is Montreal’s largest slumlord, and should stay out of the housing market.

The latest MEI study says that Montreal’s social housing stock has worsened in the last five years, but Plante insists on building more such housing.

“Those who require housing assistance are being forced to live in deplorable conditions,” says Gabriel Giguère, senior public policy analyst at the MEI and author of the study. “Before purchasing and building more units, City Hall needs to address the fact that it has become Montreal’s largest slumlord.”

The study points out that “as part of its 2050 Land Use and Mobility Plan, the Plante administration aims to see 20 per cent of Montreal’s projected housing stock removed from the market. This would require building or purchasing 161,000 units at taxpayer expense by 2050.”

The MEI says the Office municipal d’habitation de Montréal (OMHM) manages 20,818 low-rent housing units, and that, of these “79.2 per cent were considered to be in either poor or very poor condition in April 2023. This is up from 47.6 per cent in 2019. The share of housing in very poor condition has increased even more significantly over this period, from 10.2 per cent to 48.5 per cent.” The organization also cited a quote from Plante to La Presse that the city can “no longer rely on the market in terms of creating new social housing.”

The MEI study argues that the solution to the unaffordability of housing is reducing the administration’s role in housing development.

“It’s a bit rich for Mayor Plante to claim that the market has not worked, given the number of hurdles her administration has added to housing development,” Giguère says. “Whether it’s through taxes on new homes, or longer permit delays, or even the outright obstruction of newbuild housing, her administration has made life more difficult for developers trying to build.”

The researcher adds that Montreal’s 20-20-20 bylaw, requiring that 20 percent of a new residential construction must be social housing, “amounts to a tax of up to $10,500 per new housing unit built for projects of six units or more.”

As well, “the average time it takes to obtain a residential construction permit has increased from 204 days to 326 days between 2019 and 2023. In the borough of Ville-Marie, it took an average of 540 days to get a residential building permit in 2023.

A previous MEI study says that “since coming into office, the Plante administration has obstructed the construction of projects totalling 23,760 units.” As well, “the city’s 2050 Land Use and Mobility Plan aims to add fewer units to the city’s housing stock than what would be built if the average pace of the past five years was simply maintained.

“Developers want to build in Montreal, but this administration does everything it can to stand in their way,” Giguère says. “Instead of trying to build fewer homes with more taxpayer money, the city should stop preventing the market from filling the need for housing.” n

“City of Montreal is largest slumlord’: MEI Read More »

Anti-Hate coalition says McGill should BDS Hamas, Iran links

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

By Joel Goldenberg
The Suburban

The United Against Hate Canada coalition wrote to McGill president Deep Saini in reaction to the university’s recent announcement that it was proposing to negotiate some of the demands of those involved with the more than two-month long anti-Israel encampment on the campus grounds.

The pro-Palestinian activists referred to McGill’s proposals as “laughable.” McGill stopped negotiating in mid-June.

Marvin Rotrand of United Against Hate Canada told The Suburban his group is questioning “McGill’s weak kneed response to anti-Israel protests and its supine attitude in the face of increasingly maximalist demands from a relative small, masked and totally unrepresentative group of protesters, many of whom are likely not McGill students.

“Rather than considering acceding to protesters’ shameful demands and offering amnesties, we are calling on the university to do the following — boycott, divest and sanction all nations, businesses and institutions that fund Hamas as well as cutting ties with all industries and academic institutions that have links with the Islamic Republic of Iran and its proxies, including Hamas, Hezbollah, the Houthis and other terrorist entities,” Rotrand added. n

Anti-Hate coalition says McGill should BDS Hamas, Iran links Read More »

CaPQ calls for federal referendum before a Quebec one

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Joel Goldenberg
The Suburban

The Canadian Party of Quebec is calling on Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and all federal party leaders, if any of them are PM at the time, to hold a federal referendum prior to a third Quebec independence referendum that the PQ says it will hold if elected in 2026.

A letter to the federal leaders, written by CaPQ party leaders Colin Standish and Myrtis Fossey, says a federal referendum question could be, “as a member of the Canadian people in Quebec, do you consent that the Government of Quebec and the Government of Canada separate Canadians and your local territory from Canada in the event of a Yes vote in any Quebec referendum on independence or provincial secession?”

“Now is the time for Canada’s federal institutions to prepare for any referendum or potential secession contingencies,” Standish and Fossey wrote. “In the lead-up to Referendum 3, in no way hypothetical given the threats and realities of two traumatic precedents, Canada and Canadians must be fully prepared.”

The CaPQ co-leaders cite a 1997 letter from then-Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Stéphane Dion to his Quebec counterpart Jacques Brassard that said, in relation to the Swiss canton of Jara being created from part of the existing canton of Bern, “our governments too, like Switzerland, could be obliged to find arrangements that would not impose secession on populations that do not want it. If you had won the last referendum, we would have been forced to deal with this issue when no one was prepared.”

Standish and Fossey added that, even with the Clarity Act setting the rules of a Quebec referendum, it does not state “how the provincial boundaries of Quebec might be changed in the event of a successful referendum on Quebec independence.

“In other words, Canadians are no closer to ‘arrangements that would not impose secession on populations that do not want it’ than we were in 1997. As loyal Canadians residing in Quebec, subject to traumatic and repeated threats to our citizenship, we find such a situation both intolerable and negligent in the extreme.”

The CaPQ co-leaders also cited an indigenous peoples referendum held before the 1995 Quebec referendum, which indicated an “overwhelming desire to remain in Canada, whatever the results of the provincial exercise.”

“Moreover, it could not have escaped the Canadian government’s attention that after 1995, dozens of municipalities within Quebec adopted ‘staying Canadian’ resolutions, some even having discussed the possibility of following the Swiss canton of Jura model. The question is simple and pertinent. If the Indigenous people of Quebec were able to conduct referenda to express their desire to remain Canadian, before Referendum 2, why can’t the people of Canada, residing in Quebec, be accorded the same right before a possible third referendum?”

Standish and Fossey wrote that “if such a peaceful, democratic mechanism was good enough for Switzerland less than 50 years ago, why would it not be good enough for Canada today?” n

CaPQ calls for federal referendum before a Quebec one Read More »

Lack of specificity in SPVM crime stats: MoWest councillor

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Joel Goldenberg
The Suburban

The SPVM’s crime statistics are not specific enough, in that the numbers are for a station’s entire coverage area rather than individual municipalities, Montreal West Councillor Lauren Small-Pennefather says.

Station 9’s coverage area includes Montreal West, Côte St. Luc, Hampstead and, a few years ago, was expanded to include NDG. Small-Pennefather has brought up the specificity issue on previous occasions as well.

“It’s always very difficult for us to be able to distill exactly what is specific to Montreal West,” she said last week.

The councillor told The Suburban after the council meeting that the lack of specific numbers for cities is “problematic.

“This comes from the top, saying they won’t do it anymore. They say it’s not cost-effective or efficient for them to have to distill those numbers.”

At the June 25 meeting, the councillor cited the SPVM’s annual report, saying that for Station 9’s entire coverage area, property crimes were up 24.5 percent for 2023, “versus the previous five years, and there was an increase of car thefts of over 100 percent.

“Crimes against persons are also up 29.4 percent, and in the same five-year period, there was a slight decrease in homicides,” she added. “Of course, our biggest issue in Montreal West is with regards to stolen vehicles, and if you’ve been watching the news, you probably have seen that there are a number of very sophisticated theft rings that were [the subject of] significant arrests by the police.”

Small-Pennefather also said she is hopeful about legislation to reduce car thefts, such as harsher penalties for perpetrators; as well as measures by car manufacturers to decrease theft.

The councillor told The Suburban that the town does know, based on information from Montreal West Public Security and the police, that “our numbers are smaller, but we’re just a few streets, and if someone gets a car stolen and then another car is stolen [in another area of the town],” the word gets around and much concern is expressed by residents.

Small-Pennefather revealed that her own vehicle was stolen from her driveway, just before the COVID pandemic began.

“You feel violated if something is stolen from you, but as I said, a lot of this has to do with federal jurisdiction improving the laws, and they have now cracked down on a number of rings.” n

Lack of specificity in SPVM crime stats: MoWest councillor Read More »

Police shut down West End motel on drug and pimping charges

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

The Motel Saint-Jacques in NDG was shut down by police in a major raid aimed to take down a prostitution, firearm and drug trafficking network that has allegedly been running through the motel for years. The owner and one employee were arrested and are facing charges of pimping and drug trafficking.

Police received a rare warrant to place the motel under a blocking order to conduct a full investigation while ensuring all operations are stopped throughout the process. All tenants occupying the 31-room motel were evicted. At the onset of the raid, the Tactical Intervention Group discovered four unconscious persons that were intoxicated in an apartment. Ten women were taken into the care of social workers belonging to the local health network. Community outreach officers from The Assistance Center for Victims of Crime (CAVAC) of the SPVM are meeting with victims in collaboration with the Health Authority (CIUSSS).

Several tenants including at least one elderly woman who live at the motel full-time received a two week notice to evacuate their motel apartments. Police officers remain on site, supervising the motel and the remaining tenants were given information on resources to help them re-house themselves elsewhere.

With the blocking order in place, the owner is prevented access to the building and cannot sell the property while the legal proceedings are in effect. This prevents a potential sale of illegal business operations, a continuation of operations under new management or any takeovers.

This operation required careful planning and consideration of the victims in order to be carried out effectively. It is rare for police to obtain a warrant for a blocking order and place a property under constant supervision. Sixty police officers from various SPVM squads, including the newly established ACCESS and Proceeds of Crime section, were deployed to shut down the motel and the alleged illegal operations that it is connected to and to maintain constant supervision.

This property has been on police radar for many years with many reports of overdoses, multiple links to underage prostitution and prostitution, pimping as well as other facets of criminal activity related to firearms and violence. n

Police shut down West End motel on drug and pimping charges Read More »

Pierrefonds car thief leaves baby on sidewalk

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Montreal Police are searching for a suspect who is assumed by authorities to have accidentally made off with a baby when he stole a vehicle in a commercial parking lot in Pierrefonds.

The vehicle was left running with the keys in the ignition in a daycare parking lot on Alexander Street. The mother had left the infant in the car with the key in the ignition in order to allow for the air conditioning to run, while she brought her other child into the daycare.

When the thief discovered the seven-month old baby snuggled in the backseat, shortly after he took off with the car, he stopped and left the infant on the sidewalk in its car seat on the corner of Alexander Street and Gouin Boulevard and then sped off again in the stolen vehicle.

A 911 call was made at 8:15 a.m. reporting the incident. The infant was quickly reunited with its mother, who was in a state of shock, according to police.

At 8:40 p.m., the same vehicle crashed into a cement roadblock in Montreal’s Villeray district on the corner of St-Urbain and Crémazie. The suspect fled the scene of the collision on foot and has not been located by police to date.

The mother of the baby is not facing charges despite the fact it is illegal to leave a child under the age of seven unattended in a car. “Unlike a criminal act that leaves no margin, in the road safety code it is to the discretion of the police officers to issue a ticket or not. In this case, the officers determined that the mother had suffered enough hardship,” SPVM spokesperson Veronique Dubuc told The Suburban. n

Pierrefonds car thief leaves baby on sidewalk Read More »

Pastor Ken Godon speaks out against antisemitism

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

With antisemitism on the rise in Montreal with ongoing attacks on Jewish institutions and death chants being shouted against Jews and Israel on a daily basis, Pastor Ken Godon has decided to speak out and is calling on authorities to act.

According to Godon, former Pastor of Snowdon Baptist whose People’s Church is across the street from the McGill campus that has been subject to encampments of anti-Israel protestors for several weeks, people are afraid to speak out. “People are seeing a loud and violent outrage and they are afraid to get involved.”

Godon says that the silence surrounding antisemitism is a result of “cancel culture” mixed in with fear. “Right now, it is not a conversation, it is a loud rage and people speaking out against it are being shut down or attacked.”

Shortly after the Oct. 7 Hamas terrorist attacks, Godon led his congregation into prayer and in his sermon he spoke out against the attacks. “I had a lot of pushback and people approached me telling me I was being too one-sided. What possible other side could they see? I don’t know. One of the roles of a Pastor is driving his own flock. I do speak out and have had people walk out but I have a primary duty to speak the truth.”

Many Christian leaders, like Godon, are speaking out… to their congregations, but Godon has hit public forums and was even recognized as an honoured guest when he attended author Douglas Murray’s recent visit to a Montreal synagogue, for his exemplary support of the Montreal Jewish community during these difficult times.

When asked why other religious and political leaders are not speaking out as much, Godon told The Suburban that “it is a one-word answer; fear. It is the mindset that if ‘my name’ is out there and my group’s name is out there, it puts a target on our backs. They are already attacking Jews and Christians are afraid of the same plight.” For Godon, that reason is not good enough. “I can’t watch as my neighbours are being subjected to violence and hatred and remain silent. We’ve seen this before. Never Again!” n

Pastor Ken Godon speaks out against antisemitism Read More »

Pointe Claire businessman denied stay on sex charges

Local Journalism Initiative / / / ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Pointe-Claire billionaire businessman Robert Miller’s request to stay the charges related to sexual crime allegations made by 10 women and girls against him was denied by a Quebec Superior Court judge.

Miller’s lawyers argued that moving forward with the judicial process violates his rights under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to defend himself stating that he is incapable of doing so given his state of health. Now 80 years old, Miller reportedly suffers from advanced Parkinson’s disease and is bedridden with round the clock medical care. “The applicant is not capable of participating in a criminal trial, as this would cause significant harm to his health. He is not and will never be able to defend himself,” his legal representation stated.

Justice François Dadour ruled that the current procedural steps do not require Miller to appear in person, nor to oppose the charges while it was acknowledged that the Miller case will be long and complex due to the number of complainants and the time lapses attached to some of the allegations made against him. “In an unqualified future, Mr. Miller’s condition may raise some specifically urgent issues or interfere with his fair trial rights in ways that could bring the Superior Court to then intervene by virtue of its fundamental role and inherent power to enforce individual rights.”

Miller is facing twenty-one charges, including sexual assault, obtaining sexual services for consideration and several counts of sexual exploitation of minors. n

Pointe Claire businessman denied stay on sex charges Read More »

Wippi’s wonderous waterway

Local Journalism Initiative / / /

Patrick Clowery, President of the Intermunicipal Board of the Massawippi Regional Park, in front of the Eustis covered bridge, one of the stops in the real-life escape game. Photo Courtesy

New adventure game set to showcase the charms of Lake Massawippi

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Memphrémagog Regional County Municipality (MRC) has announced July 18 an innovative real escape room-style adventure game titled “Legends of Lake Massawippi: The Quest for the Lost Pages.” This unique activity is set to highlight the eastern part of the MRC’s territory, focusing on Lake Massawippi and its surrounding municipalities.

The game, developed in collaboration with Défi-Évasion and the Régie intermunicipale du Parc régional Massawippi, invites participants to embark on a 58-kilometre journey, according to a recent press release. Players will reconstruct a collection of local tales and legends by solving puzzles at various stops. The route spans five municipalities: Ayer’s Cliff, Hatley Township, Hatley, North Hatley, and Sainte-Catherine-de-Hatley.

Participants have the flexibility to start at any municipality and can take breaks to enjoy the scenic views or extend their adventure over several days. Jacques Demers, Prefect of the MRC of Memphrémagog, emphasized the project’s intent to shift the spotlight to Lake Massawippi and its picturesque surroundings. “We want people to discover the beauty of our region through this engaging game,” he said in the release.

The initiative is part of the Signature Innovation Project funded by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing’s Regions and Rurality Fund. Patrick Clowery, President of the Intermunicipal Board of the Massawippi Regional Park, explained that the concept was well-received by the park’s administration. “The MRC brought this interactive game idea to us, and we were immediately in favour,” he noted in a July 18 interview.

The game involves participants reconstituting a collection of stories and legends from the municipalities around Lake Massawippi. These stories are displayed on panels at various locations, and each panel presents a riddle or puzzle that participants must solve. The aim is to make the game both educational and entertaining, allowing participants to learn about the history and folklore of the region while enjoying a fun and interactive experience.

The game panels are being installed at key locations such as the Ayer’s Cliff Rest Area, Parc de Souvenirs in Hatley Township, and the covered bridge in North Hatley. “I hope the panels are already in place or will be shortly,” said Sonia Tremblay, General Director and Secretary-Treasurer of the Intermunicipal Board of the Massawippi Regional Park, expressing optimism about the installation timeline in a July 18 interview.

Tremblay provided more details about the game. “Each municipality has a panel at various sites where participants will solve riddles to uncover local legends,” she explained. For instance, a legend of Hatley Township requires players to piece together the story by finding clues at designated stops. “We’ve made sure that the panels are installed in easily accessible locations,” Tremblay added.

In North Hatley, participants will learn about the legend of Wippi, a monster said to inhabit the lake. “We tried to connect each story to the unique history and culture of the municipality it represents,” Tremblay explained.

The flexibility of the game allows participants to start at any of the five municipalities and complete the game at their own pace. “Participants are free to start and stop the game as they wish, taking time to explore the beautiful scenery and enjoy the local attractions,” said Tremblay. This flexibility is expected to attract a wide range of participants, from tourists looking for a unique activity to locals wanting to learn more about their region.

The project has been in the works for several months, and the MRC of Memphrémagog is eager to see it come to fruition. “We have been working closely with Défi-Évasion and the Régie Intermunicipale du Parc Régional Massawippi to ensure that everything is ready for the launch,” said Clowery. “We are confident that participants will enjoy the game and learn a lot about our region.”

The game is expected to be available throughout the summer, with panels and clues ready for participants to discover. “We are planning to have everything in place by the end of July,” said Tremblay. “We encourage everyone to come out and experience the Legends of Lake Massawippi for themselves.”

The MRC of Memphrémagog is also planning to promote the game through various channels, including social media, local newspapers, and tourism websites. “We want to make sure that as many people as possible know about this exciting new activity,” said Clowery. “We believe that it will be a great success and a wonderful addition to the attractions in our region.”

Wippi’s wonderous waterway Read More »

FeverFest 2024

Local Journalism Initiative / / /

One of the bands from Fever Fest 2018. Photo from the Record’s archives

A community celebration with a cause

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The much-anticipated FeverFest 2024 is set to take place on July 27 and 28, from 1 p.m. to 11 p.m. at 2845 Glenday in Lennoxville. This annual charity fundraiser is known for its vibrant atmosphere, eclectic mix of music, and community spirit, with this year promising to be bigger and better than ever.

FeverFest 2024 will feature 15 bands performing across a variety of genres, including rock, blues, jazz, and country. Each band will play a 45-minute set, ensuring that there is something for everyone. The event is free to attend, with donations encouraged to support local charities.

“We’re anticipating a larger turnout this year,” said Jean Pierre Lavallée, co-organizer and host of FeverFest in a July 17 interview. “Last year, we had around 300 people despite the bad weather, and we raised $6,000 for charity. With better weather expected, we’re hopeful for an even greater attendance and fundraising success.”

Some of the charities benefiting from this year’s FeverFest are Moisson Estrie and the Alzheimer’s Society of Estrie. “The rising cost of food and basic needs has led to a 50 per cent increase in requests for assistance,” Lavallée explained. “These organizations are crucial in supporting our community, and we want to do everything we can to help them.”

In addition to on-site donations, FeverFest organizers have set up a GoFundMe page to raise additional funds for the event’s infrastructure costs, including tents and portable toilets. John Maysenhoelder, the primary organizer, mentioned on Facebook the need for around $1,200 in sponsorships.

“We’ve received support from local businesses like Maxi from Lennoxville, Essential Motorcycle, and others, but we’re still looking for more sponsors to cover our expenses,” Lavallée said. “Every little bit helps, and we’re grateful for any contributions.”

For those who can’t attend the event, the GoFundMe page offers a convenient way to support the cause. “Even if you can’t make it, you can still make a difference,” Lavallée noted. “The GoFundMe link is available on our Facebook page, or you can message us directly for more information.”

Food will be a highlight at FeverFest, with Corey, the grill master, serving up free burgers and hot dogs donated by Maxi. While alcohol won’t be sold on-site due to logistical challenges, attendees are welcome to bring their own beverages. “We want everyone to have a good time, but safety is our priority, so no glass bottles, please,” Lavallée emphasized.

In addition to the music and food, there will be various raffles and giveaways throughout the weekend. “We’ve got some fantastic prizes lined up, including free oil changes from a local garage and musical instruments for the raffles,” Lavallée said. “It’s going to be a fun and exciting weekend for everyone involved.”

FeverFest is more than just a music festival; it’s a celebration of community and a testament to the power of coming together for a good cause. “I’ve been with the Alzheimer’s Society of Estrie for about four or five years now, and I’ve seen firsthand the impact that community support can have,” Lavallée shared. “With the increased need for assistance, it’s more important than ever for us to rally together.”

The festival has a long history of bringing people together, and this year is no different. “We’ve been doing this for over 10, 15 years now,” Lavallée reflected. “Every year, it’s the same recipe of great music, great food, and great company. We’re just excited to do it all over again and hopefully make an even bigger impact.”

As FeverFest 2024 approaches, the organizers are working tirelessly to ensure a memorable and successful event. “We want to thank everyone who has supported us so far, including our sponsors, volunteers, and attendees,” Lavallée said. “Your generosity and enthusiasm make all of this possible.”

For more information about FeverFest 2024, including how to donate or get involved, visit the event’s Facebook page or contact the organizers directly. “Come over and have some fun with us,” Lavallée encouraged. “And if you can’t make it, please consider supporting us through our GoFundMe page. Every little bit helps, and together, we can make a difference.” (www.gofundme.com/f/fever-fest-2024-sponsorship)

In the spirit of community and charity, FeverFest 2024 promises to be a weekend to remember, filled with music, laughter, and the joy of giving back. Don’t miss out on this incredible event – mark your calendars and join the fun at 2845 Glenday on July 27 and 28!

FeverFest 2024 Read More »

Explore the haunted history of Rock Island

Local Journalism Initiative / / /

Stanstead flood of 1927. Photo Courtesy

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Residents and visitors to Rock Island are in for a spine-tingling treat this August with the inaugural Haunted History Ghost Tours. Taking place on August 2 and 3, these tours offer an immersive experience into the eerie past of this historic area.

The tours will run in two sessions each evening from 7 to 8 p.m. and 8 to 9 p.m. Participants are encouraged to arrive five minutes early and gather at the Haskell Free Library and Opera House, located at 1 Church Street. The tours are free of charge and promise a hauntingly good time for all who attend.

“We wanted to create an event that not only entertains but also educates people about the rich history of Stanstead,” said Evelyne Crevier, the Interim Director of the Haskell Library, in a July 17 interview. Crevier, who is also one of the tour guides, was inspired to start this event after attending a ghost tour in Burlington. “I thought it was the most fun thing ever and wanted to bring a similar experience to our community.”

The ghost tours will cover a small route in Rock Island, highlighting significant historical events and local lore. Participants will learn about the flood of 1927, the great fire, and other notable events that have left a lasting mark on the town. Crevier and her colleagues have meticulously researched these stories, ensuring that the tour is both informative and engaging.

“One of the most intriguing stories we’ll be sharing is about a patient of Dr. Colby in the mid-1800s,” Crevier explained. “She seemed to be possessed, and even though her eyes were closed, she could see everything around her. It’s a chilling tale that’s perfect for a ghost tour.”

The ghost tours are part of a broader effort to engage the community and attract visitors to Stanstead. “We’re always looking for ways to bring people together and showcase what makes our town special,” said Crevier. “Events like these not only provide entertainment but also foster a sense of community pride.”

Local businesses are also getting involved, with several offering special deals for tour participants. “We’ve had a great response from local shops and restaurants,” Crevier said. “They’re excited to welcome the tour-goers and add to the overall experience.”

While this is the first year for the Haunted History Ghost Tours, there are plans to make it an annual event. “We’re already thinking about how we can expand and improve the tours for next year,” Crevier shared. “There’s so much history here, and we want to continue sharing it with both residents and visitors.”

For those interested in local history and a good scare, the Haunted History Ghost Tours of Rock Island offer a unique and exciting opportunity. The blend of historical facts and ghostly tales ensures that there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Crevier and her team are also working on additional materials to enhance the tour experience. “We’re putting together posters and visual aids that will highlight some of the stops on our route,” she mentioned. “It’s going to be a comprehensive and engaging event.”

Don’t miss out on this exciting new event that promises to be both educational and entertaining. Join the Haunted History Ghost Tours of Rock Island and discover the secrets of Stanstead’s past!

Explore the haunted history of Rock Island Read More »

Lachine doctor warns of “deeply concerning” failing ER stats

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

The Montreal Economic Institute (MEI) published troubling results of its 2023-2024 study of Quebec’s Emergency Room (ER) statistics revealing that 11.5 per cent of visitors left this past year before receiving medical treatment.

According to the study, conducted over an 11-month period, the number of patients who visited ERs over the last year is 3.2 million with 377,404 patients leaving prior to receiving medical care, mainly due to lengthy wait times averaging 5 hours and 13 minutes in ERs across Quebec. The data collected in the study does not include the number of patients that were referred to another health-care provider outside of the ER at the time of their visit.

The study, headed by economist Emmanuelle B. Faubert, also reveals that 27.5 per cent of the patients that left the ERs were category P1, P2 and P3 patients, all of which are patients requiring urgent care. Over 70 per cent of category P4 and P5 patients seeking non-urgent care left the ERs without being treated.

Faubert says that any patient leaving the ER is concerning. “A patient who leaves without treatment runs the risk of worsening his or her condition and returning to the emergency department as a more complex case.”

Dr. Paul Saba, a family physician in Lachine, Quebec, is calling the study “a tragic commentary on our healthcare system”.

“Many patients don’t have a family doctor or have tried to go to a clinic (prior to visiting an ER), so this often is their last resort. Most people with benign conditions won’t wait so many hours to be seen by an emergency room physician,” Saba explained to The Suburban.

In his ongoing fight entitled “Save the Lachine Hospital” Saba says that this is just one of many examples of how the healthcare system is failing to provide necessary services that can save lives and shorten wait times. “With the ICU closed at the Lachine Hospital since December 2020, this exacerbates waiting times for our patients, not only here but on the rest of the island.”

Faubert says that in consideration of increased budgets and reforms, this is a major problem. “This is a big problem because it shows that our health-care system is incapable of taking care of Quebecers and it’s dangerous when you consider that the population is aging and needs are increasing.” n

Lachine doctor warns of “deeply concerning” failing ER stats Read More »

Ayer’s Cliff’s mayor Simon Roy

Local Journalism Initiative / / /

Simon Roy. Photo Courtesy

Tête-à-têtes with your local elected officials

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Ayer’s Cliff is gearing up for significant changes under the leadership of Mayor Simon Roy. In a July 15 interview, Roy shared his journey, the town’s current projects, and his vision for the future. With a blend of personal anecdotes and detailed plans, Roy paints a picture of a community on the brink of transformation.

Background and early life

Born in Sherbrooke, Roy has deep roots in the region. “I was born here at the [CHUS],” he says, reminiscing about his early years. He lived there until he was around 22 to 24 years old. After completing his education, including a PhD in Ottawa, Roy returned to Sherbrooke, where he has been a professor at the University of Sherbrooke for over two decades.

“I did my law degree in Sherbrooke, then I did my master’s at Quebec. I stayed in Quebec for like four years, five years. Then I went to Ottawa to do my PhD, and when I was about 30, I got a job at the university, so I came back here,” he explained. His connection to the area and his professional background have provided a solid foundation for his role as mayor.

A chance mayoral run

Roy’s journey to becoming mayor was somewhat serendipitous. He recounted, “The [Director General] at the time… called me and asked me to be a volunteer for the election. I initially declined because it coincided with Halloween, an important day for my kids.”

However, two weeks later, no one had stepped up to run for mayor. “I decided to do it because my wife was the [Director General] of Canton de Hatley for five years. I had a pretty good understanding of the municipal scene around the lake,” Roy explained. His commitment to the community and a desire to bring stability and fresh ideas to the town council drove him to take on the role.

Challenges and opportunities

Ayer’s Cliff faces several challenges, but Roy is optimistic about the town’s future. Financially, the town has seen improvements. “When I came in, we had about a 7 per cent reserve. Now we’re getting close to 24 per cent, which is a lot more comfortable,” Roy noted. This financial stability is crucial for undertaking significant projects without overburdening the town’s budget.

One of the upcoming challenges is the development on Tyler Street, which could add 100 to 200 new residents. “It will be an issue to make sure that they integrate well and that traffic and stuff like that works,” Roy admitted. However, he views this as a positive challenge, indicative of the town’s growth and appeal.

Roy also highlighted the need for a more diverse housing offer. “We have a lot of big houses for families, but we don’t have a lot of options for the […] kids that want to leave their parents’ house or the older people that just want a smaller place to live,” he said. This focus on housing diversity is critical for accommodating residents at different life stages and ensuring a balanced community.

Modernizing the water station

One of the most significant pieces of news for Ayer’s Cliff is the project to modernize the water station. “We were welcomed for a project to modernize the water station,” Roy shared with enthusiasm. This project is a cornerstone of Roy’s vision for the town’s infrastructure improvement. The modernization is expected to enhance the water quality and ensure a reliable supply for residents, reflecting Roy’s focus on long-term, impactful projects. “It’s very, very, very good news,” he emphasized.

Focus on long-term planning

Roy emphasized the importance of long-term planning. “We’re trying to focus on bigger things, like what we’re going to do with the church because we bought the church, so we have to come up with a project on that,” he said. The church project, along with a comprehensive review of zoning bylaws, are part of Roy’s strategy to prepare Ayer’s Cliff for future generations.

Community and volunteer spirit

One of the strengths of Ayer’s Cliff, according to Roy, is the strong sense of community and volunteerism. “There’s a lot of volunteers, there’s a lot of people who really like the town,” he says. This community spirit was evident when Roy posted an April Fool’s joke on Facebook about changing the town’s name to Hatley’s Cliff. “It shows how passionate people are about their town and its history,” he reflected.

Leadership style and future vision

Roy’s leadership style is characterized by a focus on stability and competence. “We put a lot of time to make sure that we have a good team of employees. We’re really, really happy with the team that we have,” he said. This emphasis on building a strong administrative team allows the council to focus on strategic issues rather than getting bogged down in day-to-day operations.

He also believes in making tough decisions for the greater good. “We raised the tax bill 30 per cent on the first year. We told people that it’s not because we want more money. It’s because you’ve not been paying a fair share for all those years,” Roy explained. This decision, though challenging, was crucial for ensuring the town’s financial health and gaining the respect of residents.

Addressing social issues

While Ayer’s Cliff is generally a family-oriented town with fewer visible social issues compared to larger urban areas, Roy acknowledges that challenges exist. “We don’t have people living on the street that we all know of,” he said. However, there are still residents facing financial difficulties, and the town supports them through initiatives like the food bank.

Looking ahead

As Roy looks to the future, he remains committed to preparing Ayer’s Cliff for the long term. “The main thing is basically that people have been involved. They’ve got deep roots. They are proud of their town. They want it to work,” he said. This deep-seated pride and commitment among residents make Roy’s job as mayor both rewarding and manageable.

Ayer’s Cliff’s mayor Simon Roy Read More »

City support services available during peak moving period

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Joel Ceausu
The Suburban

During the peak moving period this week, the city of Montreal offers various kinds of assistance, such as help in finding housing, temporary accommodations and storage, and referrals to various assistance services.

If you need to leave your home, but don’t know where to go, or are in danger of losing your home, the city can help. If you still haven’t found a place to live and are on a low income, you can call 311 for help. Priority is given to low-income families. If you’re not eligible, you will be redirected to the right resources.

In addition to help provided by the city, several public services and organizations can support you:

Office municipal d’habitation de Montréal (OMHM): Housing search tool by number of rooms and according to your budget. Visit https://www.omhm.qc.ca/en/housing-application/available-housing-private-market

211 Greater Montreal: Assistance for homeless people and new arrivals; social and community resources for all types of needs; multilingual assistance in 200 languages. https://www.211qc.ca/en

Info-Santé 811: Physical and mental health problems. Call 811 or visit https://www.quebec.ca/en/health/finding-a-resource/info-sante-811

The Front d’action populaire en réaménagement urbain (FRAPRU): Call 514-522-1010 or visit https://www.frapru.qc.ca/member-type/comites-logement (in French)

Regroupement des comités logement et associations de locataires du Québec (RCLALQ): Call 514-521-7114 or visit https://rclalq.qc.ca/comites-logement (in French)

The Tribunal administratif du logement or TAL (formerly Régie du logement): Information and recourse with respect to rights and obligations of residential leases. Call 514-873-2245 or visit https://www.tal.gouv.qc.ca/en

Shelter Allowance Program: Government financial assistance of up to $170 per month to help low-income households pay their rent. https://www.revenuquebec.ca/en/citizens/your-situation/low-income/shelter-allowance-program n

City support services available during peak moving period Read More »

CDN residents want action on vermin

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

By Joel Ceausu
The Suburban

Jeffrey Weinstein says he first saw a few mice scurrying through his dining room. Then “families” of them cruising through bedrooms. He caught eight but figures up to two dozen may live rent-free in his Wilderton apartment.

He says his landlord, TMR-based property management and brokerage company Harbor Realties, is unresponsive, and some other residents in the connected buildings at 6525 Wilderton and 6280 Northcrest told The Suburban they agree.

He felt further stymied by 311, saying it took several weeks for the borough to act due to repeated communication snafus. In April an inspector visited his apartment. “He said he’d return to do a whole building inspection and inform the landlord to get an exterminator or the city will impose fines… When I followed up with the borough, I got nothing… I think they’re not being transparent and they’re stonewalling.”

Darlington city councillor Stephanie Valenzuela told him CDN-NDG is short-staffed with only 12 inspectors for 500 inspections and the property was flagged to her in late 2022 for rodents, cockroaches “and really poor conditions in general.” She says inspectors are sent but owners don’t act because infractions are an insufficient deterrent. “Lately we’ve seen a little bit of movement in terms of complaints, but the issue’s been around for a while.” Valenzuela says when inspectors visit, “they ask the landlord to bring in an exterminator who only exterminates that unit, displacing the problem to neighbours.”

The Suburban asked Loyola councilor Despina Sourias, Montreal’s point-person for housing and cleanliness, about the delay. Borough advisor Ezra De Muns responded, saying if rodents are present after the latest inspection, “a second statement of offence will be issued to the landlord, this time with a more substantial fine.” Visits will be repeated about every two weeks until the city’s Housing Department intervenes. (Sanctions include upscaling fines up to $20,000 per repeat infraction, and having work performed and billing landlords.) De Muns says the delay is because there are files at both borough and city levels due to the number of issues.

Valenzuela says since changing ownership three to four years ago, “the property has gone downhill, and they show little interest fixing issues, and seem to be waiting for people to leave so they can hike rents.” She says “residents who can afford to, move out, and those who can’t, well they’re waiting them out. It seems like they’re engaging in renovictions.”

The Suburban asked Harbor Realties what they did in response to the complaints, and if they are engaging in renoviction. Ian Mirescu responded that the allegation is “totally unfounded” and “there is no such thing as renovictions going on in our building.”

He says the city sent a non-conformity notice for extermination, adding tenants did not contact the landlord about the issue but went directly to the city. He provided a city request for four units out of a total 183. Mirescu then named another tenant with a bedbugs issue that has been treated twice. “We have no other such cases. The exterminator was clear that the problem is coming from him.” He alluded to said tenant’s attempt to extort owners with media coverage and cautioned The Suburban against publishing “sensational” and inaccurate material.

Weinstein and his neighbours met with Mont-Royal–Outremont MNA Michelle Setlakwe about the issue, are opening a file at the Tribunal administratif du logement, and a tenant meeting with Valenzuela is planned.

Last month, the city announced $3 million for preventative inspections and $1.5 million for tenant organizations. A recent pilot project inspected 91 large buildings and 1,000 health violations were detected in 13 of them. The city pledges to perform preventative inspections of 8,000 buildings in vulnerable neighbourhoods, some 130,000 homes, within five years. n

CDN residents want action on vermin Read More »

New reserved bus lanes approved

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

By Joel Ceausu
The Suburban

New reserved bus lanes have been approved by the city’s executive committee.

The Société de transport de Montréal (STM) is introducing three new reserved lanes on sections of Papineau (Ahuntsic-Cartierville and Villeray), Notre-Dame West (Lachine, Sud-Ouest and Montreal West), and Ray-Lawson (Anjou). Reserved lanes will also be added to sections of existing routes on Saint-Laurent (Ahuntsic-Cartierville) and Jarry (Villeray).

“The STM is working with the boroughs and towns concerned to carefully plan the introduction of the reserved lanes, with a view to improving the performance of its bus network,” said STM chair Éric Alan Caldwell.

The reserved lane on Notre-Dame Street West, at the junction of the Lachine and Sud-Ouest boroughs and the town of Montreal West, will be extended on both sides of Saint-Pierre Street. A new reserved lane for buses, taxis and bicycles will also be set up between Saint-Joseph Boulevard and Saint-Pierre Street. Once in service, it will operate Monday to Friday, 6:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. eastbound, and from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. westbound. A new reserved lane for buses and taxis will be set up between Saint-Pierre and de la Berge-du-Canal, in operation Monday to Friday, from 3.30 p.m. to 6.30 p.m., westbound only. Finally, a modification to the hours of operation of the section of reserved lane for buses and taxis already in operation on Notre-Dame Street West between Saint-Pierre and Pullman eastbound will also take place in 2024. It will now operate between 6:30 a.m. and 9:30 a.m.

For more information visit https://www.stm.info/en/about/major_projects/major-bus-projects/reserved-lanes-network n

New reserved bus lanes approved Read More »

Court orders $220 million compensation for cabbies

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

By Joel Ceausu
The Suburban

Quebec taxpayers are on the hook after a Superior Court judge ruled the government must pay almost $220 million to more than 6,000 taxi drivers in a class action lawsuit stemming from the 2019 law that deregulated the industry and destroyed the value of their costly permits.

The award of $143 million plus interest is in addition to an earlier compensation package paid by the province of some $800 million for permit holders who saw their investments in licenses lose all their value when the scheme was abolished and companies like Uber entered the market.

Justice Silvana Conte ruled that the government’s pilot project with Uber and subsequent legislation served as “disguised expropriation” without adequately compensating license holders, many of whom had invested large sums and were banking on the assets for retirement income.

Retired driver Louis Mason told The Suburban he is still out “tens of thousands” and that’s if “the government does not appeal…They used an unfair calculation from the start, so I don’t see them being fair now in reacting to the judgment. We’ll see.” He said his permit lost hundreds of thousands in value.

The amount awarded — to all holders of licenses as of October 2013 — is based on the 2016 license value, correcting what plaintiffs called an earlier imbalance that compensated based on how much individual cabbies had invested. n

Court orders $220 million compensation for cabbies Read More »

EMSB tops province in grad rates

Local Journalism Initiative / / / ,

By Joel Ceausu
The Suburban

The English Montreal School Board has secured the highest graduation success rate in the province. According to the latest education ministry numbers, from 2022-2023, the EMSB’s graduation rate stands at 95.9%, up from 92.7% the year prior.

While most students graduated within five years, the Ministry allows for a two-year extension to ensure students have ample opportunities to earn their diplomas or obtain their initial qualifications. The province-wide success rate of this seven-year cohort including public and private school results, stands at 84.2%. (The public system’s average is 81.7%, while the private sector reaches 93.5%.)

EMSB chair Joe Ortona said the numbers are particularly impressive given that this cohort was affected by the pandemic. “The province reinstated uniform exams in June 2022. It is reassuring to note that student achievement has remained stable in the courses required for graduation, and academically, COVID does not appear to have had a marked effect on these students.”

The board actually exceeded the overall average, and the private networks as well, added EMSB director general Nick Katalifos. “The pandemic years were extremely challenging for all of us. Everyone rose to the occasion. The results stem from a collective effort — our teachers, in-school administrators, support staff, and professionals from all of the departments at the board.”

The results continue to improve and far exceed the francophone school service centres — surpassing the Centre de services scolaire de Marguerite Bourgeoys which posted Montreal’s highest French sector rate at 90.4%, (the Centre de services scolaire de Montreal at 81.5%). This, as the board continues to lead the fight against the CAQ scheme of abolishing school boards and replacing them with said service centres.

Last summer a Superior Court judge ruled that much of Bill 40 infringes on the English-speaking community’s constitutional rights to manage and control its education institutions. With more than 35,000 adult and youth sector students, the EMSB is Quebec’s largest English public school board. n

EMSB tops province in grad rates Read More »

Poilievre presents Neil Oberman as Mount Royal candidate in major rally

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By Joel Goldenberg
The Suburban

Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre and new Mount Royal Conservative candidate Neil Oberman received a massive welcome in the Mount Royal riding Wednesday night, with a crowd that was packed to the rafters at the Grover Auditorium at the Y in Snowdon. Also on hand were Deputy Conservative Leader MP Melissa Lantsman from Toronto, MP Pierre Paul-Hus from the Quebec City area and MP Marty Morantz from Winnipeg, as well as Poilievre’s wife Anaida and their children.

Oberman is the senior partner at Spiegel Sohmer who has sent legal warnings to universities to protect Jewish students, and filed six successful injunctions keeping anti-Israel protesters well away from Jewish institutions. He is challenging Liberal incumbent Anthony Housefather, who recently considered changing parties after a recent vote regarding the Israel-Gaza war, but elected to remain with his party.

Oberman, a Mount Royal riding resident and former Côte St. Luc municipal candidate, told the cheering crowd, “I will represent Mount Royal as if you are my family!

“I’m running for Parliament not because I have to, not because I need to, it’s because I want to!” he added. “There are hateful divisions. I don’t recognize the Canada that I love! We have to stop it and we’re going to stop it!”

Oberman said Housefather “can no longer dodge responsibility for his decisions to keep in power the most anti-Israel Prime Minister Canada has ever seen!”

“Shame!” yelled the crowd.

Poilievre spoke to the crowd about such election issues as crime, the housing crisis and the carbon tax.

“After nine years of Justin Trudeau, here in Montreal, a city that has given him unquestioned support for his entire career, what have been the results, my friends?!.. We see the crime and chaos, crime is raging out of control after nine years of Trudeau!”

Poilievre also spoke about the many antisemitic incidents, including Jewish schools being fired upon and Molotov cocktails being thrown at Jewish institutions, that have taken place since the Oct. 7 Hamas terrorist attack on Israel.

“It wasn’t like this before Justin Trudeau! There have been many wars in the Middle East, but that violence did not pour over into the streets of Canada, because we had an understanding that we leave those troubles behind, and when we come here, we are all Canadians!….After nine years of Trudeau, everything is broken! Life was not like this before Justin Trudeau and it won’t be like this after Justin Trudeau!”

Poilievre praised Oberman as a “straight-talking no-nonsense local lawyer who has taken it upon himself to file injunctions against Hamas-inspired hate camps and is standing up for the rights of Jewish students to study without fear!

“But that’s not all! He’s fighting back against red tape for small businesses, for lower taxes for their workers, opportunities for the next generation to own a home. This is the type of champion [we need]! Justin Trudeau has taken Montrealers for granted long enough!” n

Poilievre presents Neil Oberman as Mount Royal candidate in major rally Read More »

Mayors, MNAs, MPs form caucus to press for Cavendish link

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By Joel Goldenberg
The Suburban

A “Cavendish caucus” of Mayors, MPs and MNAs has been created and met virtually with federal Housing Minister Sean Fraser to press for the realization of the Cavendish link between CSL and St. Laurent before the Hippodrome housing project is completed.

The caucus includes Mayors Mitchell Brownstein (CSL),  Peter Malouf (TMR), Alan DeSousa (St. Laurent) and Jeremy Levi (Hampstead). It also includes MPs Anthony Housefather, Anna Gainey and Emmanuella Lambropoulos; MNAs Elisabeth Prass, Desirée McGraw and Michelle Setlakwe and councillors Dida Berku and Sonny Moroz.

Lambropoulos said she and the other members of the Cavendish Caucus are requesting that the “Province of Quebec enforce the terms of its agreement with the City of Montreal which mandated the completion of the Cavendish project in return for ceding the Hippodrome land to Montreal.”

“We pressed upon [Fraser] that’s it’s very important that the federal government, which has billions of dollars to give for housing, as well as the provincial government, not give money for housing without demanding that the transport be there in order to service that housing — not to finance the housing without the transport,” Berku said. “Without the support of the federal and provincial governments, Montreal won’t be able to [go ahead with] these plans….We recognize the housing needs, but we need good transit to fuel and promote good development.”

A National Assembly petition sponsored by Prass asking for the realization of the Cavendish link is being launched.

The petition, specifically, will also ask the provincial government to “respect and enforce the Hippodrome agreement of 2017, which stipulated that the transfer was conditional on the realization of the Cavendish extension.”

A letter from the caucus to Fraser also says they are asking “for an environmental impact study to be done immediately so that it can be brought before the Bureau d’audiences publiques sur l’environnement (BAPE) as soon as possible, and for the Cavendish extension to be developed in parallel to the Namur-Hippodrome housing project, as it was meant to be.”

Mayor Mitchell Brownstein said the business community is clear that the Cavendish link has to accompany the housing development. “For residents to want to move into those developments, for businesses to succeed — people need to be able to get there.”

Neil Oberman, the new Conservative Mount Royal candidate and a former CSL municipal candidate, told The Suburban he is supportive of this effort.

“Cavendish needs to be open, its a question of people having a right to circulate, to go see their families without getting stuck in traffic. It’s been long overdue, it needs to be done, it shall be done because people won’t accept being locked in their homes and blocked in their cities.”

Mayors, MNAs, MPs form caucus to press for Cavendish link Read More »

Oct. 7 survivors speak to community

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

By Joel Goldenberg
The Suburban

Bring Them Home Montreal, the group which organizes the weekly walk for hostages from Hampstead Park to the Y in Snowdon, and Tel Aviv University recently presented Israeli sisters Nirit (left) and Inbal Caspi (right) — third sister Shani could not make the trip. They spoke to a large audience at the Y’s Grover Auditorium about their experiences during the Oct. 7 terrorist attack by Hamas on their Kibbutz Magen, where some residents found themselves alone, preparing to say farewell to their families; and others fought the rampaging terrorists —some of the residents were killed or injured. Shiri Tamam, friend of the Montreal hosts of the sisters, centre, provided English translation of the sisters’ Hebrew address. Sharon Fraenkel, CEO for Eastern Canada of Tel Aviv University, discussed the Uniform to University Scholarship Fund, which provides reservists returning from duty from the war with Hamas with financial and academic support. Fund organizers point out that more than 6,000 Tel Aviv University students “dropped everything to serve in the IDF reserves and helped secure Israel after Oct. 7.” For more information on the fund, go to www.cftau.ca/uniform. n

Oct. 7 survivors speak to community Read More »

Hampstead will reinstate stop sign

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

By Joel Goldenberg
The Suburban

A stop sign that was installed briefly at westbound Fleet Road and Baronscourt in 2021 and then removed a week after that year’s town election will be reinstated as a pilot project, Baronscourt resident Gordon Kugler was told by Mayor Jeremy Levi at the town council meeting.

Kugler, who said he was speaking on behalf of all 14 homeowners on the street, told the council, “we have insisted upon, and been ignored, quite frankly — [regarding] a stop sign at the corner of Fleet and Baronscourt for westbound traffic on Fleet and for people on Baronscourt turning left to go west on Fleet.

“This is an extremely dangerous intersection. Councillor Harvey Shaffer and the previous Mayor [William Steinberg] acknowledged it and they immediately put up a stop sign. A week after this administration was elected, the stop sign was summarily removed for no reason. Someone doesn’t have to get killed or seriously injured to make you act. Please put the stop sign back.”

Councillor Michael Goldwax said the sign was removed because it is not in compliance with Quebec’s Highway Safety Code, “so technically speaking, it wouldn’t be able to be enforced” by police, as stop signs have to be spaced a certain amount of metres apart.

“Having said that, we rediscussed this whole issue and said ‘let’s look at reinstating it on a pilot basis and see how it goes, what the reaction is, the exiting of the homeowners on Baronscourt onto Fleet,” the councillor added. “This means painting a stop line, erecting a stop sign and reviewing it based on vehicle traffic. We’re not against it, but we’re looking at our options right now.”

Mayor Jeremy Levi said there are similarities and differences with the intersection of Fleet and Minden, where there is also no stop sign on Fleet. Drivers on Minden can turn right to go eastbound on Fleet, but not left onto westbound Fleet.

“It’s only dangerous [for Baronscourt residents] if you turn left. If you turn right, there’s a stop sign at that intersection, so it’s not 100 percent a dangerous intersection. We’re going to put the stop sign back as a pilot project and we’ll take it from there.”

Kugler asked how soon the stop sign will be reinstated. Levi said that depends on scheduling and logistics. Goldwax pointed out a line has to be painted, as that has to accompany a stop sign.

“This is not going to take place in five months, but it may not be tomorrow.”

“We’ll proceed based on the results we get,” Councillor Leon Elfassy responded to some shouting residents.

Hampstead will reinstate stop sign Read More »

CSL consulting public on new master plan

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Joel Goldenberg
The Suburban

Côte St. Luc is holding meetings in July, August and September in connection with its master plan for the future of the city, including the potential redevelopment of Quartier Cavendish, the CSL Shopping Centre and Décarie Square.

The news was announced by Councillor Mike Cohen at his District 2 virtual meeting and guest speaker Councillor Dida Berku. The master plan process began in 2022 with public information meetings and other meetings with stakeholders. Cohen said there will be an opportunity for developers to build a “lot of high rises” for redevelopments.

“On Wednesday, July 10 [at 7 p.m], there will be an information session about our master plan at city hall, and on Monday Aug. 12 [at 8 p.m.], all the details will be available that night, and that’s when the consultation will begin,” he explained. “It will go on until we vote on Sept. 16 on the proposed zoning.”

Berku said that the meetings “will deal with the master plan and the special planning program for the Town Centre, including Cavendish Mall, the new zoning bylaws and all the new rules that will be adopted to make way for these new developments not only in the malls, but along the commercial corridors like Westminster and Caldwell.

“We will also introduce new rules regarding home-based businesses and other changes that will make it easier for homeowners to renew the housing stock,” she added. Berku said that “there’s no such things as status quo. We have to prepare for the future and it’s best when we plan and design our future the way we want it….We cannot leave the malls the way they are. There’s no two ways about it. CSL has the same challenges as all the other cities.”

A brief power point presented by Berku described the vision of the Town Centre, which includes Trudeau Park and Cavendish Blvd. between Kildare and Mackle Roads, as a “vibrant and dynamic mixed-use area with lively and inviting public spaces and thriving commerce, which fosters community, promotes well-being and resilience and provides residents with viable housing and mobility options.”

The councillor also said that density is essential, especially in light of the housing crisis, and “if we want to increase the housing stock of all types from rental apartments to condos, from affordable to high end luxury, we will need to think about a city where we can all live and play and even work. We all know what a lively town centre looks like — families living in good housing, viable places to shop and eat and entertain yourself and you need the parks and public spaces that will allow our residents to thrive and maintain a good quality of life at a reasonable price, a fair tax rate. For that, we need more revenue. That is the winning formula.” n

CSL consulting public on new master plan Read More »

Lachine residents put up lawn signs to save ICU

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By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

The ICU at the Lachine Hospital remains closed. Lachine residents are now bringing attention to the issue by placing lawn signs as part of a series of ongoing demonstrations demanding the reopening of the ICU. Doctors, nurses and members of the community have been advocating with multiple demonstrations to re-open the hospital’s ICU which the MUHC advertises on its website as the “heart of the hospital.”

“Critical care is the heart of the hospital. The intensive care unit is where really sick patients from all corners of the hospital come to receive immediate, life-saving care,” Dr. Francesca Rubulotta, first chair of the Critical Care Medicine at the MUHC, stated on March 25, 2022.

“Shortly before the winter holiday season, in December 2020, we were told that it was closed because the nurses needed vacation, but it never re-opened,” Dr. Paul Saba, who has been heading the advocacy to ensure that all services, particularly priority services, remain active at the hospital, said to The Suburban. “Not all community members in support of the efforts to demand the reopening of the ICU were able to be present at the demonstrations held in front of the hospital. These lawn signs give everyone who wishes to express their support the opportunity to do so.”

“This has been a ping-pong game for many years. Last year, the MUHC told us that they will re-open the emergency 24 hours a day, seven days a week, but with no intensive care, as soon as a patient gets very sick, the patient needs to be moved to another hospital,” former Lachine Mayor and president of the Save the Lachine Hospital citizens committee, Claude Dauphin, told The Suburban. “This is like having a clinic, rather than a fully functional ER.” When asked if he believes that the lawn signs will serve as an effective pressure tactic, Dauphin said, “we rallied to get the ER reopened when it was closed to ambulances and it worked. There is proof that when the community gets involved, it raises awareness to the authority figures; the Quebec government and the MUHC. There is hope but we need to work hard.”

“When our ventilated patients were transferred here in 2015 from the Montreal Chest Institute, many of the families were concerned with their care being transferred to a CHSLD. They were assured because we are so near the Lachine hospital which had, at the time, a functional ICU. Since 2020, that has changed. It is a very stressful situation for the families and the residents. For folks who are ventilated if something goes wrong and they require intensive care and a respiratory therapist, distance makes a big difference. Imagine trying to hold your breath for five minutes,” said Danielle Carter, President of the Camille Lefebvre residents committee.

Robert Renaud, an 81-year old Lachine resident who lives just several blocks from the Lachine Hospital .told The Suburban that he is afraid to go to the hospital with all the intermittent service closures. “There is more population, but less doctors, it makes no sense to reduce services. I don’t go there any more. They are spending millions and millions on rebuilding it, but they are closing services. It does not make any sense.” n

Lachine residents put up lawn signs to save ICU Read More »

Car thief jumps into lake in Pointe-Claire

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Some Beaconsfield and Pointe-Claire residents were rudely awakened by police sirens at 6:30 a.m. last Saturday morning. Quebec Provincial Police (SQ) officers attempted to intercept two vehicles stolen from Ontario that were travelling on Highway 20 East near the Woodland exit in Beaconsfield. Officers managed to seize one of the two vehicles on Murray Garden in Pointe-Claire however the driver ran away on foot.

Police officers succeeded in apprehending the suspect who fled south to the Saint-Louis Lakefront at Villeneuve Terrace and Lakeshore Boulevard. The suspect jumped in Lake Saint-Louis as he was being chased by police officers. With the assistance of the Montreal Fire Department, police officers apprehended the man who was then arrested and is now facing charges of reckless driving, obstruction of justice and possession of stolen property.

Pointe-Claire residents living nearby watched as police officers pulled the suspect out of the water, arrested him and placed him in their vehicle. One resident snapped some photos and sent it to The Suburban. “It is concerning to see how the West Island has changed so significantly over the years with the rise in crime,” Another resident said to The Suburban. “This used to be a quiet place to live. Now we wake up on a Saturday morning to this kind of stuff and then we open the newspaper and read about more news like this happening nearby. It was never like this before.”

Recently, just a few blocks East on Lakeshore, a six-story building was evacuated as police searched for another car thief that abandoned a vehicle in a residential parking lot after a police chase following a hit and run on a police officer who was on foot in Lachine.

The second suspect managed to evade being captured in the initial police vehicle chase. A K-9 unit was deployed and SPVM officers were mobilized in collaboration with the SQ to search for the second suspect, who has not been caught to date. The SQ investigation is ongoing. “We are committed to catching crime suspects,” SQ spokesperson Nicolas Scholtus said to The Suburban. n

Car thief jumps into lake in Pointe-Claire Read More »

Île-Bizard Mayor tackles bridge problem himself

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Île-Bizard mayor Doug Hurley is concerned about the effects of the ongoing work on the Jacques-Bizard bridge with important events coming up, such as the Professional Golfers Association (PGA) World Cup slated to take place at The Royal Montreal Gold Club this September. Elected in December 2023, Hurley, who has been advocating for the bridge reparations to take place since 2013, immediately made this a priority upon his election.

Hurley has personally tended to many of the issues related to bridge traffic, big or small, and says that the organization related to the work being done is already flawed and he fears that with the upcoming PGA Tour coming to town that it will only exacerbate the issues. At one point, Hurley advocated to have cement Jersey barriers moved as they were unnecessarily reducing traffic lanes. Hurley has also stood on the four corners at the foot of the bridge to help direct traffic as there is a shortage of volunteer cadet officers to conduct the traffic flow.

“Right now we have 18,000 bridge users per day, while during the PGA tournament, we are expecting 30,000 per day for six days in September,” Hurley told The Suburban.

Hurley prepared a plan of action but finds himself forced to negotiate at every turn. “We want to ban street parking, except for residents during the PGA event. We want to reserve a single lane for shuttle buses which should be stationed near available parking lots off-island. The Montreal police wants to issue passes instead, which is a much more complicated process,” Hurley explained. “In terms of public security, Montreal wanted to use ours (Île-Bizard) public security, and I said fine but they will pay the bill. Montreal refused to compensate our small business owners stating that the event is not taking place in front of their business. If anyone came here to see, it is clear that the current traffic caused by the bridge is detrimental already and that nearly doubling that flow as a result of the event will affect them immensely and for six days.” n

Île-Bizard Mayor tackles bridge problem himself Read More »

Annual Strangers In The Night gears up for another edition

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

The annual Strangers In The Night gala, benefiting The West Island Women’s Shelter, the Marie-Eve Saulnier Foundation and the Shriners Hospitals for Children, is gearing up for its disco-themed event featuring, amongst many others, the 1970s groups the Village People and Boney M. will be held August 31st.

“Bring your dancing shoes because we are going to dance all night,” former professional ice hockey defenseman for the Montreal Canadiens Patrice Brisebois said at the official 2024 SITN launch announcement last Friday.

“Patrice and I focus our fundraising energy on Strangers In The Night. These beneficiaries are very close to our hearts,” author, influencer and event specialist Nadia Saputo told The Suburban.

Elected officials Pierrefonds-Roxboro Mayor Jim Beis, Pointe-Claire Mayor Tim Thomas and Kirkland City Councillor Karen Cliffe were recognized for their contributions and efforts to the event at the announcement made at the West Island Pigeon Café in Pointe-Claire, one of the businesses situated at the location where the event will take place. Westcliff Management is contributing the space in the plaza parking lot located at the east side of St-Jean Boulevard, just north of Highway 40, for the third consecutive year.

“I am very happy to see so many people supporting this. We are so glad to have this event here,” Thomas said. SITN originated in Pierrefonds-Roxboro, which continues to support the event by providing a stage and equipment. “We are very privileged to be part of this event,” Beis told The Suburban.

“There are a lot of volunteers that spend an enormous amount of time creating this event and are worthy of a note of affection. This is going to be another great one,” Cliffe, who plays a significant role in promoting the event, said.

The 2024 Honorary Chair Ralph Hagen of Hagen Pet Group stated his sense of pride being part of the event. “We don’t have pet owners anymore, we have pet parents. In these difficult times of uncertainty, to come home to unconditional love is a blessing. We are proud to be part of this event in the West Island community.”

This year, the SITN group also committed itself to hosting the Rib Fest in Pierrefonds-Roxboro to benefit the West Island Black Community Association, West Island Association for the Intellectually Handicapped and the West Island Big Brothers Big Sisters association.

“SITN is committed to its fundraising efforts. We spend nine months preparing for one night and it is completely worth it to see the community rally together for great causes,” SITN founder Larry Day said to The Suburban.

The event also serves as an opportunity for local talent to showcase their music and for restaurants and small businesses to make themselves known or grow their clientele. Over 50 restaurants participate each year, along with dozens of small business partners who showcase their services. n

Annual Strangers In The Night gears up for another edition Read More »

WICS continues bike give-away to WI youth

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

West Island Community Shares (WICS) held the fourth edition of Bikes for Youth at the Gerry-Roberston Community Centre in Pierrefonds-Roxboro last weekend. Some 60 volunteers gathered to assemble and test 70 new bikes destined for the big give away to underprivileged West Island teens the same day. “What an emotion-filled moment to see the smiles on their faces as they took their new wheels for a spin,” spokesperson for WICS Claude Gagné told The Suburban.

More than 500 children and teens have benefited from the Bikes for Youth initiative since its inception in 2017. Prior to receiving their new bikes, complete with helmets and locks, the teens were invited to enjoy music, games and a BBQ hosted by the volunteers. Some of the recipients with less experience were aided by volunteers to get used to their new riding equipment. Adjustments for height on the bikes and for straps on the helmets were made before the kids got to hop on to their new sports equipment for their first ride. It was a joyful afternoon for all who participated, givers and receivers alike.

Spearheaded by National Bank along with other corporate sponsorship partners, the initiative aims to raise funds and distribute bicycles — complete with helmets and locks — to vulnerable West Island teenagers. “National Bank firmly believes in West Island Community Shares’ mission and this campaign is a demonstration of its support,” Regional Vice-President, Corporate and Private Banking for National Bank Xavier Lalonde said.

“We enlisted the help of the community organizations part of our network to identify teenagers who would benefit from the program. These youths live in vulnerable situations. Most of them come from low-income families, often single-parent or newly arrived in Canada, for whom purchasing a new bike is virtually impossible on an already restricted budget. A bike gives these teenagers the freedom to discover, to grow and to spread their wings,” WICS Executive Director Meagan Somerville said. n

WICS continues bike give-away to WI youth Read More »

Mother, pediatric surgeon warn of drowning risk

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

“I turned around for just a few seconds to grab my water bottle when my son shouts out to me that his sister is at the bottom of the pool,” Catherine Couture, a mother of four and former CPE educator, from the off-Island suburb of Coteaux-du-Lac located just a few minutes West of Terrasse-Vaudreuil, explained to The Suburban. “A few seconds before she was having lunch with her siblings.”

Luckily in this case, Couture’s nearly two-year old daughter survived, and a study recently released by Dr. Hussein Wissanji, a pediatric surgeon at the Montreal Children’s Hospital, depicts just how lucky this family was.

According to the statistics revealed by the study, it is estimated that one child will be brought into an emergency room from drowning, or near drowning on each day of the summer, in Quebec this year.

Wissanji says that parents and guardians need to view water the same way they view fire. “You would not leave your child alone with an open fire,” Wissanji explains as he encourages parents to change their view on water based activities. According to Wissanji’s study, one in ten children brought into the ER due to no supervision or a gap in supervision when playing near water will die of drowning with the majority of them being toddlers.

In Couture’s case, two mothers were present at the play date held at her pool to supervise six children. When the children paused for their lunch break, their floaters were removed while they were on deck and eating.

“When I turned around after my son called out to me, I just saw her pink bathing suit and her blond hair floating at the bottom of the pool,” Couture explained to The Suburban emotively. Couture jumped in to the pool to pull her daughter out of the water and when she got out with her toddler in her arms, the girl was conscious, but the nightmare was not over. “I felt her body filled with water, it is hard to explain, she was just full of water.”

Moments later, the toddler threw up a “large” amount of water, according to Couture’s account. As it turns out, this was the second stroke of luck for the little girl. “I called my husband and we brought her to the ER where she was seen by a nurse who said that throwing up was a good thing, that a good amount of water had exited her body decreasing her chances of drowning, but that we had to continue to supervise for 48 hours in case of ‘dry drowning.’

Couture said that the nurse explained that dry drowning is a term used to describe drowning from water build up in the lungs that can happen up to 48 hours after a near-drowning experience. “She has been sleeping with us since this happened and I watch her for each breath to be sure that it is not her last one.”

On a third stroke of luck, Couture said the little girl wanted to jump right back into the pool after the experience, which is sometimes not the case for children after a traumatizing experience with water or any other element. “Many people have reached out to me and I realize how incredibly lucky we have been and I want to make others aware or remind them that this can really happen to anyone at any time and that there is no such thing as being too vigilant.”

Since the incident, Couture applied new regulations around her children’s pool activities, such as serving their lunch outside of the fenced-in area surrounding the pool and increasing the number of supervising adults per child ratio. n

Mother, pediatric surgeon warn of drowning risk Read More »

Second suspect caught in Dorval hit and run

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

The second suspect who had escaped after the hit and run that left a Montreal police officer injured on April 22 has been arrested. The 25-year-old suspect who is alleged to have deliberately drove into an unmarked vehicle in order to flee a police interception near the intersection of 55th Avenue and Guthrie Avenue in Dorval had managed to escape after the car was parked at a residential building in Pointe-Claire.

The suspect is facing multiple charges, including vehicle theft, trafficking in property obtained by crime, dangerous driving causing bodily harm and armed assault against a peace officer. The suspect is also believed to be involved in another attempted vehicle theft that occurred on the same day in Kirkland.

The suspect’s alleged accomplice was arrested moments after police officers located the stolen vehicle in Pointe-Claire and is facing charges of vehicle theft and receiving stolen property.

On April 22, patrol officers noticed two suspects attempting to steal a vehicle, at half past noon, near 55th Avenue in Lachine. A suspect was apprehended while the second suspect managed to flee from officers on foot towards another alleged stolen vehicle parked nearby with an accomplice already in the driver’s seat. The duo fled at high speed smashing into a police vehicle that hit a police officer nearby who was on foot before fleeing via Highway 20 at which point police lost sight of their whereabouts.

The West Island community was shocked to discover that a police officer was injured while on duty, particularly in relation to an alleged petty car theft. Montreal Police reassured the community that it is taking the incident very seriously and that it intends to send a strong message. “The SPVM takes this opportunity to remind the population that attacking police officers is simply unacceptable. Such acts will not be tolerated in our society. People who commit them will be arrested and held accountable for their actions,” the SPVM stated. n

Second suspect caught in Dorval hit and run Read More »

“Enough is Enough!”: Montrealers demand Plante act against antisemitism

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Joel Goldenberg
The Suburban

Thousands of Montrealers braved the onset of this week’s heat wave Monday and gathered at Montreal City Hall to demand strong action from Mayor Valérie Plante against antisemitism. The crowd shouted in English and French, “Enough is Enough!” and “Assez c’est Assez!” The Federation CJA-CIJA demonstration took place following the firebombing and shooting of Jewish institutions, and the same day as a scheduled anti-Israel “revolutionary youth summer program” started at the McGill encampment.

In the large crowd were former PQ Minister André Boulerice, members of the Latino community, the Iranian Youth Council, members of the Judeo-Christian Dialogue, and members of the Japanese, Rwandan and Filipino communities. Others on hand included CSL Mayor Mitchell Brownstein and Councillors Andee Shuster and Dida Berku, CDN-NDG councillor Sonny Moroz, former D’Arcy McGee MNA Lawrence Bergman, forner CSL councillor Glenn Nashen and many more.

Raihaana Adira, a member of the Ismaili Muslim community, a McGill Islamic Studies and International Development student and an ally of the Jewish community through Allied Voices for Israel on campus, told the crowd that she was raised with the Islamic values of co-existence and pluralism. Adira said Oct. 7 was the day she began becoming vocal about her alliance with the Jewish community. “While my classmates at McGill were celebrating in the streets and posting how heroic the attack was, I was contacting professors, mentors, friends — every Jewish person I knew in Canada and Israel to make sure their families were okay.” Adira said she has also been a collateral victim of antisemitism and bullying, including through doxxing, “for believing that terrorism is wrong and that Jewish people should not be killed for being Jewish or for living in their ancestral homeland!” She condemned the lack of action against the McGill encampment, “despite it violating both city and McGill bylaws. There have been no steps from the city to dismantle it!Since Day 1, the situation on campus and in Montreal is getting progressively worse and escalating at a high speed! Enough is enough! This is not about Muslim versus Jewish, this is about right versus wrong!”Steven Sebag of Federation CJA said, “stop Jewish hate now!” he added. “Stop antisemitism on our streets and on our campuses today! Enough is enough! We cannot tolerate one more day of hate in the city we love! You, our elected officials, bear the responsibility to protect the Jewish community and restore law and order on our streets and campuses! History has taught us the heavy price of inaction! Do not let history repeat itself! Please act now! Please act today!… It is time to step away from the sidelines and impose tougher measures!”

Martin Rosenthal of the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA) pointed out that Jewish Montrealers are “experiencing a wave of antisemitism unprecedented in our city. Montreal, which our Mayor has called a city of peace, is today a place of reprehensible actions that place into peril the peace and security of its inhabitants. For too long, our community has been under attack!…Mayor Plante, it is within your power and it is your duty to act!”

The Honourable Jacques Saada,a former MP and current President of the Montreal Holocaust Museum, relayed a message to Mayor Plante that “we do not have the strength to remain silent!” While Saada thanked Plante for her support of the new MHM under construction, he said Montrealers are hearing too often, “yes to antisemitism, yes to racism.” He also pointed out that the MHM’s construction site on St. Laurent Blvd. was vandalized Sunday with slogans inciting violence, including ‘f–k Israel.”

“Enough is Enough!”: Montrealers demand Plante act against antisemitism Read More »

RCMP arrest Oka resident for inciting antisemitism

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Joel Goldenberg
The Suburban

Saint-Joseph-du-Lac resident Pascal Tribout, 37, was arrested last Thursday for the 3D printing of guns and promoting hatred against Jews, the RCMP announced.

Saint-Joseph-Du-Lac is west of Montreal, near Oka.

“An RCMP operation has resulted in the seizure of a significant quantity of 3D printers as well as a homemade firearm,” the announcement says. “According to the investigation conducted by RCMP Federal Policing’s Integrated National Security Enforcement Team (INSET), Mr. Tribout also allegedly made hateful comments against the Jewish community in a public forum on the social network Telegram, contrary to the Criminal Code. Additionally, Mr. Tribout is alleged to have possessed and shared computer data that could be used to manufacture firearms with a 3D printer, which is also illegal.”

Tribout is facing charges of :Weapons trafficking (manufacturing) (CC 99(1)); possession of a prohibited firearm (CC 92(1)(a)(b)(3)); possession of a prohibited device (CC 91(2)(3)(a)); possession and distribution of computer data that pertain to firearms and that are capable of being used with a 3D printer for the purpose of manufacturing (CC 102.1(1) and (2)); and wilful promotion of hatred (CC 319(2)(a)).”

The RCMP added that more charges “may be laid at a later date. The police added that it “takes seriously any threats that can affect one’s sense of security.

“Violent statements will not be tolerated, whether made on social media or through any other means of communication. Perpetrators may face criminal charges involving significant sentences. Such incidents must be reported if we are to combat this type of crime.”

Members of the public who have have information on the illegal activities of individuals or groups are urged to call the RCMP at 514-939-8300/1-800-771-5401 or local police at 911.

B’nai Brith Canada says it played a “pivotal role” in the investigation that led to Tribout’s arrest.

“B’nai Brith was able to gather crucial information about his hate-motivated conduct. This landmark arrest underscores the critical importance of vigilance and proactive action in combating hate and violence.” n

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