Chelsey St-Pierre

Arson squad investigating 8 car fires across WI

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

In a concerning series of events, another vehicle was engulfed in flames last week in the driveway of a residential property in Pointe-Claire, marking the second suspicious fire the same week in what appears to be an escalating pattern of arson incidents in the West Island.

The latest incident brought Montreal firefighters to a home located on Pendennis Avenue near Hilary Avenue. After firefighters tamed the blaze, investigators made a troubling discovery of traces of accelerant on another vehicle parked in a nearby driveway. The first targeted vehicle was completely destroyed with significant collateral damage caused to the residence.

This event follows on the heels of another vehicle fire reported just a day earlier when flames consumed a car parked in a residential driveway on Hastings Avenue near Empress Avenue in Pointe-Claire. The proximity and timing of these incidents prompted the SPVM’s arson squad to take charge of both investigations.

The pattern mirrors similar incidents across West Island communities. In Dollard-des-Ormeaux (DDO), residents have been grappling with their own wave of vehicle fires, particularly concentrated on Louis-Riel Street. The community there witnessed three vehicles set ablaze within a 48-hour period recently with two of the incidents occurring in the evening hours around 8 p.m., followed by a third in the early morning.

Kirkland residents have not been spared from this troubling trend, with multiple arson attacks targeting three residences on the same street. These incidents have sent ripples of concern through these typically peaceful neighbourhoods, challenging the long-held perception of the West Island as one of the Greater Montreal Area’s safest regions.

As authorities delve deeper into these cases, the SPVM has heightened its presence in affected areas, deploying additional patrols to maintain public safety and gather information. While investigators work to unravel the connections between these incidents, local communities remain vigilant while their overall sense of security is tested by these troubling events. n

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Baie-D’Urfé Scouts celebrate 35 years

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

The Baie-D’Urfé Scouts marked a significant milestone by celebrating 35 years with their respected Food Drive, an event that has become a beloved community tradition. The event was a bustling affair, with the main room of the Red Barn opening its hangar doors to accommodate cars pulling up around the U-shaped driveway. Scouts eagerly collected donations, which were sorted by fellow Scouts.

In conjunction with the Food Drive, the Baie-D’Urfé Citizens Association hosted a Toy Drive, inviting residents to bring new, unwrapped toys or gift cards. Residents of all ages were welcomed by Santa at the Red Barn to capture a holiday photo as they dropped off non-perishable items.

Despite the chill in the air, the spirit of community warmth was palpable. Attendees enjoyed refreshments and festive Christmas music as they contributed non-perishable food items, baby food, and personal care products.The donations benefited the West Island Assistance Fund (FDOI), ensuring that those in need received extra support during the holidays.

The food drive brought together about five dozen volunteers who contributed to the Scouts’ mission of providing food and essentials to families in need across the West Island for the holiday season.

Baie-D’Urfé Mayor Heidi Ektvedt spoke with The Suburban about the event, emphasizing the deep-rooted traditions of the town. “Tradition is part and parcel of life in our lovely little town, and I am so proud to see the community rally in support of the 35th year of the Baie-D’Urfé Scouts with the food drive.”

The West Island Assistance Fund, along with many local food banks, are seeing overwhelming increases in demand. “Let’s continue to give what we can in support of those who need an extra hand,” Ektvedt encourages.

In an interview with The Suburban, 11-year-old Sophie Vermeulen said “We’re doing a drive for people that are less fortunate. Helping people makes me feel good.” Her enthusiasm was shared by fellow Scout, 10-year-old Myles Bowie, who told The Suburban “I feel good that they can eat because they might be really hungry. It (the proceeds from the food drive) helps people survive when they are hungry.”

Cub Scout leader Greg Vermeulen highlighted the importance of community engagement and education. “We are very excited and honoured to participate for the fifth year of this food drive while celebrating our 35 years. It’s always nice to get out of our regular meeting place environment. We want to teach them (the Scouts) starting at such a young age, and it’s great for us as adults too to participate,” he told The Suburban. “Some kids don’t appreciate that it’s hard for other families — it’s a good opportunity to discuss other people’s challenges and teach them how a community can come together to make things easier for people in need.” n

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DDO restaurant destroyed by suspected arson

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

A restaurant on Sunnybrooke Boulevard in Dollard-des-Ormeaux was struck by fire early Friday morning at approximately 1:30 a.m.

Montreal Police (SPVM) arrived at the scene located near Kingsley Street while Montreal firefighters were combating the flames.

A perimeter was established as firefighters worked to control the blaze, which caused significant damage to the structure.

The incident occurred during non-operational hours. No injuries were reported.

According to early information obtained by authorities, at least one suspect was observed fleeing the location following the fire’s outbreak, prompting the transfer of the investigation to the SPVM’s arson section.

Technical investigators conducted evidence collection throughout the day to establish the precise circumstances surrounding the suspicious fire. Surveillance footage will be reviewed and any potential witnesses will be met.

No arrests have been made as of press time.

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Man awaits sentencing in fatal Pointe-Claire crash

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

A 21-year-old St-Lazare man is facing sentencing after pleading guilty to impaired driving causing death in a tragic accident that deeply affected the Pointe-Claire community.

On December 18, 2021, a vehicle ran off the Sources overpass while the driver was driving at high speed. This resulted in the body of a teen being ejected from the vehicle onto the ground on Donegani Avenue. The incident shocked the local community.

The tragic crash claimed the life of 16-year-old Noah-Lewis Mercier, who succumbed to his injuries three days after the tragic event while hospitalized.

In a shocking and heartfelt appeal to the court, Marie-Christine Parent, Mercier’s mother, urged leniency for the driver, Julien Ségaux, who was not only the person behind the wheel but also her son’s best friend. Despite her immense grief, Parent called for compassion and understanding within the courtroom. “We need more compassion, we need more thinking of others,” she stated, reflecting her son’s caring nature on the night of his death. Her plea underscored a desire not just for justice, but for healing and community learning from this devastating event, which added to the heavy emotional weight of her plea, as Parent had also lost another son in similar circumstances.

Parent made it clear that she did not solely blame Ségaux for the tragedy, highlighting the unfortunate decisions made by both young men on the evening of the crash that caused her son’s death. Her call for leniency was a testament to her belief in rehabilitation and the power of forgiveness, hoping that this tragedy could serve as a lesson for others. 

Prosecutor Sylvie Dulude has argued for a prison sentence, emphasizing the need for such a measure to act as a deterrent to impaired driving on a larger scale while defense lawyer Robert Israel advocated for a community-based sentence, highlighting Ségaux’s lifelong guilt and the significant challenges he faces in rebuilding his life following the accident. Israel stressed the impact of the tragedy on Ségaux, who has been unable to resume normalcy due to physical and emotional injuries.

Mercier was the step-son of CAQ MNA Marilyne Picard. The decision in the case will be rendered by Judge Jean-Jacques Gagné.

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Quebec daycare workers launch full-day strikes

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Workers at 16 public daycares (CPEs) across Quebec launched their first full-day strikes last week, marking a dramatic shift from previous shorter demonstrations. The strike involved some 500 workers affiliated with the Quebec Syndicate of Public Service Employees (SQEES-FTQ), who have scheduled additional walkouts through December with the next coming on the 18th. Their mandate includes an unlimited strike if necessary.

This latest action represents a significant escalation from previous tactics, which until now were limited to partial-day walkouts. The dispute centres primarily on wages, with qualified entry-level educators earning $21.60 per hour, while some CPE workers receive as little as $18 per hour, resulting in average annual salaries around $45,000.

The escalation follows three consecutive weeks of labour action by approximately 3,000 workers aligned with the Federation of Early Childhood Workers (FIPEQ-CSQ). These workers have implemented a strategy of progressively later openings each Friday, with centres opening at 10 a.m., planning to push these times later until their demands are met.

“We have no choice but to take it to this level,” according to Stéphanie Vachon, CPE sector representative, pointing to critical staffing shortages plaguing the industry. Vachon says that the crisis has reached a breaking point, with existing staff struggling under mounting workloads.

The heart of the dispute lies in wage disparities and government proposals that unions consider inadequate. The government’s offer of a 12.7% wage increase over five years falls notably short of the 17.4% increase recently secured by other public sector workers. While the Treasury Board maintains that pressure tactics are coming solely from the unions, they’ve noted that higher increases in other sectors were tied to agreements on workplace flexibility.

The impact on families is becoming increasingly severe, particularly as the holiday season approaches. Parents are being asked to make alternative arrangements for childcare on strike days, with many facing the challenge of balancing work commitments against unpredictable daycare operations. n

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Car fire in Pointe-Claire adds to spike across West Island

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

A vehicle was set ablaze in the driveway of a residence on Hastings Avenue, near Empress Avenue, in Pointe-Claire on the West Island early Monday morning. Montreal police (SPVM) have launched an investigation into the incident.

At approximately 2:40 a.m., multiple 911 callers reported a car engulfed in flames. Firefighters arrived at the scene and managed to control the blaze. The vehicle was declared a total loss.

The exact cause of the fire remains unknown at this time. The SPVM has handed the case over to their arson unit to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Three similar incidents occurred in Dollard-Des-Ormeaux earlier this week, where vehicles were set on fire under suspicious circumstances. Additionally, multiple incidents of this nature have been reported in Kirkland over the summer and into the fall, highlighting a concerning pattern of arson attacks occurring in the driveways of private residences across the West Island.

This is a developing story. For full report please see The Suburban.

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Three suspicious car fires in DDO

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

In a tranquil neighbourhood of Dollard-des-Ormeaux (DDO), a series of vehicle fires has sparked concern and prompted an investigation by Montreal police (SPVM).

The latest incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday morning, when a vehicle parked on Louis-Riel Street was engulfed in flames. This marks the third vehicle fire on the same street in just two days, leading to heightened scrutiny from law enforcement, with high suspicions of arson.

Residents were awakened by the sounds of the blaze around 3:50 a.m., with the SPVM summoned to the scene minutes later. Officers discovered a vehicle completely destroyed by fire, and the initial reports stemming from the early stages of the investigation suggests suspicious circumstances, according to SPVM spokesperson Veronique Dubuc.

This unsettling pattern began the previous evening, when two other vehicles were allegedly similarly set ablaze on the same street around 8 p.m.

In response to these incidents, the SPVM has ramped up their presence in the area, deploying additional patrols to maintain public safety and gather information. The SPVM’s arson unit has taken charge of the investigation, examining the scene for evidence to determine the cause of these fires.

The local DDO community finds itself on edge, with residents eager for answers. As authorities continue their investigation, locals remain vigilant, hoping for a swift resolution to these mysterious and troubling incidents.

Kirkland residents living on the same street have recently experienced a similar scare, with multiple arson attacks occurring at three residences on the same street. 

West Island residents, commenting to The Suburban, have raised various concerns about the rise in crime in different neighbourhoods which have previously been considered generally “safe” in comparison with other sectors in the Greater Montreal Area (GMA). 

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Quebec daycare workers extend strike tactics

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

In the wake of ongoing negotiations and heightened tensions, approximately 3,000 daycare workers across Quebec engaged in a strike last Friday, marking the third consecutive week of labour action. These workers, aligned with the Federation of Early Childhood Workers (FIPEQ) and affiliated with the Quebec Union Federation (CSQ), have been expressing their dissatisfaction with the current wage proposals. They will extend their strike tactics — particularly later openings — this week. Parents are advised to check with their daycares on operating hours.

The strike, which saw early childhood centres (CPEs) opening later at 10 a.m., is part of a broader strategy to delay openings progressively each Friday until a resolution is reached. This reflects a significant escalation from earlier considerations, where potential strike actions were anticipated in blocks of full days rather than half-days, as discussed by the Federation of Health and Social Services (FSSS), a CSN affiliate. This strategy aims to maximize pressure on the government while minimizing immediate disruption to families, though the cumulative effect is beginning to take a toll.

Stéphanie Vachon, CPE sector representative, has emphasized the critical need for government intervention to address the staffing shortages that plague the sector. “We have no choice but to take it to this level,” Vachon remarked, highlighting the urgent necessity for long-term solutions to employee retention challenges. The shortage of qualified staff has reached a crisis point, with existing employees often overwhelmed by increased workloads and responsibilities.

This labour action aligns with earlier demonstrations initiated by FIPEQ, signalling the possibility of a strike if the provincial government continued to show disinterest in negotiations. March 31 marked one year since FIPEQ submitted its urgent demands to the government, underscoring the prolonged nature of the dispute and the growing frustration among workers.

“We are mobilizing our members to put pressure on the government — however, we won’t wait forever if they continue to remain silent,” Valerie Gagnon, FIPEQ president, told The Suburban in an interview last spring. Her comments underscore the persistent urgency for improved salaries to cope with inflation and enhance staff retention. Some CPE workers earn as little as $18 an hour, with an average annual salary of $45,000, which Gagnon deems unacceptable. The disparity in wages compared to other public sector employees is a significant point of contention, fuelling the discontent among daycare workers.

Central to the strike is the wage dispute. The government proposed a 12.7% wage increase over five years for CPE workers, an offer that falls short compared to the 17.4% increase secured by other public sector employees earlier this year. The Treasury Board has pointed out that such increases for other sectors involved agreements on flexibility in work organization, affecting service delivery. However, daycare workers argue that the unique demands of their roles, which involve nurturing and educating young children, warrant greater consideration.

As the strike continues, its pressure tactics are causing additional strain on families, particularly as the holiday season approaches. The unpredictability of daycare operations is forcing parents to scramble for alternative childcare solutions, adding stress during what is typically a busy time of year. Many families are finding themselves in a precarious position, needing to balance work commitments with the sudden need for childcare. As negotiations, ongoing since the spring, have yet to yield significant progress, the potential for further operational disruptions looms large. n

Quebec daycare workers extend strike tactics Read More »

Space-age Autonomous Care Unit opens in Pierrefonds

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

A state-of-the-art “Autonomous Care Unit” has arrived in Pierrefonds, aiming to alleviate pressure on the West Island’s healthcare system.

Launched last week, the unit leverages technology initially developed for astronauts, offering a high-tech solution for self-monitoring health. The system is specifically designed to target preventable and urgent health conditions, providing immediate results to users. Users can assess their vitals and receive quick health evaluations via a screen and sensors.

Astronaut David Saint-Jacques explained that the goal is to enhance personal autonomy in managing one’s health, which begins with monitoring through a computer system equipped with artificial intelligence. The system can determine whether a person is healthy or ill, and should illness be detected, a human medical specialist would then intervene.

CIUSSS West Island spokesperson Dan Gabay highlighted the system’s impact, stating “One of the big challenges that you have is patients waiting on waiting lists who could be healthy, but some of them could be ill, as you’ll see through some of the visits. The objective really is to be able to give access to reviews through various health-care markers.”

BAUNE, the company behind the C2M2, sees it as a solution to primary care shortages, especially in remote areas. CEO Andrea Galindo explained its ability to deliver health care anywhere, addressing accessibility issues.

The C2M2 was presented with Federal MP Sameer Zuberi and Pierrefonds-Roxboro Mayor Jim Beis in attendance.

Beis noted the region’s ongoing struggle with doctor shortages, affecting many West Islanders. “This initiative is seen as a crucial step in providing more accurate diagnoses and care,” Beis said.

The timeline for integration for patient use has yet to be announced. n

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Cinema Des Sources in DDO to close

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

The closure of Cinema Des Sources in Dollard-des-Ormeaux marks a significant moment for Cinemas Guzzo, Quebec’s largest chain of independent movie theatres. Vincenzo Guzzo, the entrepreneur behind the chain, has acknowledged the challenges faced by the industry, particularly in light of recent financial pressures.

Recently, Quebec Superior Court Judge Michel Pinsonnault placed Cinemas Guzzo under interim receivership, necessitating financial transparency with Raymond Chabot, a firm specializing in financial recovery. This move is part of CIBC’s efforts to seek liquidation over an outstanding $38 million debt, with the bank expressing frustration over extended payment delays.

Guzzo, while refraining from discussing the specifics of the ruling, has assured compliance with the court’s directives, stating, “I’m doing my job. We’re getting it done.” He clarified that the decision to close Cinema Des Sources was made prior to these proceedings, citing an expiring lease as the primary reason.

The pandemic has had a devastating impact on the cinema industry, with prolonged closures severely affecting revenue streams. Guzzo acknowledged this impact, noting the nearly two years of restrictions that have challenged theatre operators.

Beyond his role in the cinema industry, Vincenzo Guzzo is well-known for his appearances as a “Dragon” on the Canadian reality television show Dragons’ Den, where he invests in and mentors aspiring entrepreneurs. His dynamic personality and business acumen have made him a popular figure on the show.

In addition to his business ventures, Guzzo is recognized for his philanthropic efforts. He has been involved in various charitable activities, including significant donations to healthcare institutions in Quebec, demonstrating his commitment to giving back to the community.

Guzzo’s contributions extend to his active participation in community development, where he supports initiatives aimed at enhancing local infrastructure and services. His involvement in both business and community efforts reflects a multifaceted approach to leadership and social responsibility. n

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DeBellefeuille Foundation comes to St. Monica’s aid

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

The NDG community came together for a significant evening of music and unity on Sunday, November 24, to support St. Monica’s Church.

The benefit concert, attended by 550 people, aimed to generate much-needed funds for the church, which has faced financial difficulties due to recent urban changes on Terrebonne Street, including the introduction of new bike paths and a one-way traffic pattern. These modifications have hindered the church’s ability to host large events such as weddings and funerals, threatening its sustainability.

A major contributor to this event was The Joel DeBellefeuille Foundation, which played a pivotal role in securing the Freddie James Project as the evening’s star performance. Renowned for their energetic performances and exceptional talent, the group captivated the audience, encouraging them to rise to their feet, creating an unforgettable experience for attendees. The concert also featured various talented artists who generously donated their time to the cause, showcasing a collective effort to support St. Monica’s Church.

This event marks the second major contribution from The Joel DeBellefeuille Foundation to the NDG community since its establishment. Earlier in the year, the Foundation donated 100 whole frozen turkeys to local residents in need for Thanksgiving, further demonstrating its dedication to supporting the borough and its inhabitants.

Joel DeBellefeuille, the founder of the Foundation, commented on the event, stating “This event was a testament to the strength of the NDG community and its commitment to preserving vital spaces like St. Monica’s. While we’re thrilled to have supported this initiative, it’s crucial that city council listens to residents and works toward solutions that balance community needs with urban development. Institutions like St. Monica’s shouldn’t have to rely solely on community-driven efforts to stay afloat.”

The Foundation’s involvement underscores its dedication to strengthening communities and addressing issues that matter most to residents. The success of the event highlighted the urgent need for collaborative solutions to ensure the long-term viability of cultural and spiritual spaces like St. Monica’s Church. As attendees left the concert, they exchanged enthusiastic farewells, a stark contrast to the polite greetings shared upon their arrival. n

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Mosab Hassan Yousef brings message of unity to Montreal

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

A remarkable sense of camaraderie filled the air at The Chevra Synagogue last week as more than 1,300 attendees from many faiths and cultural communities gathered for a speech from Mosab Hassan Yousef, widely known as the “Son of Hamas”. His father was a co-founder of Hamas. Mosab left Hamas at 19 and for ten years served as a high-level operative for Mossad, Israel’s intelligence service. Yousef called for strengthening commitment against hate, bullying, and antisemitism.

Yousef delivered a powerful speech that resonated deeply with the audience, inspiring a sense of unity and shared purpose, inciting multiple standing ovations throughout the evening. His message was one of resilience and courage to remain firm against adversity. His talk in the evening was one of two he had been scheduled to give. During the day he was to have spoken on campus at McGill in an auditorium at the McIntyre Medical Building. But just days after approving his talk, McGill Provost Angela Campbell and Vice-President Fabrice Lebeau cancelled all speakers at McGill through January because of supposed online “threats” received about the Yousef address. This in spite of the fact that over the past four weeks McGill allowed on campus talks by two infamous antisemitic and pro-Hamas speakers Francesca Albanese and Iyad Abuhamed. The on-campus talk was converted to a Zoom meeting with even more people — some 500 — listening to Yousef’s message.

During the book signing portion of the evening, The Suburban asked Mosab, “What fuels your fearlessness?” He responded with a thought-provoking statement: “Fear is not a feeling (for me). As long as you feel, you remain under the pressure.”

Despite facing unimaginable personal risks—including risking his life as the most hated and hunted man by radical Islamists and surviving a childhood where his own father, Sheikh Hassan Yousef, who beat him daily, wanted him dead—Mosab stands up to fight for justice.

The Chevra’s Rabbi Asher Jacobson spoke to The Suburban and expressed deep concern about the increasing levels of hate and antisemitism both in Montreal and around the world. “We are seeing hate rise and excessive bullying and antisemitism,” Rabbi Jacobson said. “Tonight is about standing up to that hate, and no one has shown more bravery and courage against antisemitism, anti-Zionism, anti-civil rights, anti-democracy, and anti-freedom that Mosab.”

Before the formal proceedings began, presentations were made by the master of ceremonies, the synagogue’s president Aaron Bloom, who set the tone for the evening. Bloom spoke passionately about Yousef’s bravery in speaking out against antisemitism and the terrorist ideology plaguing the world under the guises of freedom movements. Bloom highlighted how, while political authorities in Canada and around the world often refuse to speak out and take action against antisemitism, Mosab exemplifies courage and resilience.

Community activist and philanthropist Roslyn Margles took the stage, emphasizing the importance of standing against hate. As the first to bring Mosab Hassan Yousef to Montreal some time ago, she praised his courage in speaking out against antisemitism. Margles noted that it is via such acts of bravery that communities gain strength in unity.

The event was secured by a robust security presence, including private security, the Montreal Police, Quebec Provincial Police, and RCMP agents, ensuring the safety of those who gathered. n

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Pierrefonds has highest increases in 2025 budget

By Dan Laxer and

Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Projet Montréal tabled its 2025 budget, along with its ten-year capital expenditure program, at a council meeting last week. The document, released last Wednesday, November 20, boasts “the city is able to invest more in the immediate needs of Montrealers, whether in housing, fighting homelessness, maintaining its infrastructure or for the vitality of its downtown, all while minimizing the tax burden on residents.”

Ensemble Montréal, the Official Opposition, is warning residents not to be misled.

The budget promises to cap the increase in property taxes for an overall increase of 2.2% for the residential sector, and 1.9% for the non-residential sector. That’s the city average. The rates vary depending on the borough. The Côte-des-Neiges–Notre-Dame-de-Grâce borough’s increase, for example, is slightly higher, at 2.9%. The lowest in the city is Ville-Marie at just 0.2%, whereas Pierrefonds-Roxboro gets hit with the highest at 4.1%.

Pierrefonds-Roxboro Mayor Jim Beis said, “they don’t know how to budget and manage Montreal. They are running a city into disarray—it’s dirty, transit is a mess, one issue follows another, all while there’s a gridlock to make way for bike path construction. They fail to prioritize their spending. Beis also says that the administration’s mismanagement of funds has compelled communities like his to raise borough taxes. “They make it appear as though they are implementing only minor tax raises, yet since taking office, they have increased taxes to fund Plante’s pet projects. This has led communities like mine to increase borough taxes.”

By way of comparison, Mayor Valérie Plante pointed out that …Montreal’s tax rate is far lower than both Vancouver and Toronto and in line with inflation.”

Opposition leader Aref Salem disagrees, however, that the tax hike is equal to inflation, telling the mayor in council, “you broke your promise four times during your mandate. Four times you raised taxes over the rate of inflation. Taxes have gone up 38% during your administration.”

The new budget comes with investments of $100 million for housing, $12 million to fight homelessness — which Salem points out is only a $3 million increase from the last budget – and $10 million to deploy the city’s Downtown Strategy.

Ensemble Montréal says the administration would do better to get their spending under control. “We need to spend not more, but better,” says Alan DeSousa, St. Laurent Borough Mayor and Official Opposition spokesperson on financial matters. “Projet Montréal’s administration has failed to meet its responsibilities. Apart from bike paths and greening initiatives, its record is practically non-existent and demonstrates a flagrant lack of sense of priority.”

The new budget is Valérie Plante’s last as mayor, and the party’s eighth since they came to power. Last month Plante announced that she will not be seeking a third term. In tabling the new budget, she said “I am proud to leave the house in order.”

When her term ends, Salem says, she will have left the city “in really bad condition, at least fiscally.” n

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Suspect caught in Pointe Claire hit and run

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

An alleged car thief in a stolen vehicle hit a police SUV on Sunday in Pointe-Claire, nearly injuring two officers on foot. This is the third incident of this nature in the West Island since the start of summer along with multiple incidents of hit and run on police officers or their vehicles by alleged car thiefs in the Greater Montreal Area (GMA) over the last several months.

At approximately 3 p.m. on Sunday, two officers in a patrol car, facing a stolen vehicle, were exiting their vehicle to proceed to the arrest of the driver. When the 18-year old driver noticed the police exiting their cruiser, he accelerated at high speed and smashed into the patrol car, before fleeing on foot.

The incident took place on Portway Avenue near Hermitage Avenue. A K9 police dog for the SPVM, named Phoenix was brought to the scene after a security perimeter was erected to aid police officers in their search. Just minutes after Phoenix arrived, the suspect was located and arrested.

The perimeter was maintained while investigators conducted a thorough examination of the scene in order to produce a detailed report of the crash.

Both officers sustained minor injuries. Neither of them were transported to the hospital.

The suspect remains in detention. n

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SPVM arrest six in two island-wide fraud schemes

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

The Montreal Police Department’s (SPVM) Economic Crimes Section arrested six suspects who were allegedly involved in two fraud schemes involving false representation. Some 50 victims of all ages are believed to have fallen victim to the scam. Authorities estimate the losses incurred by the victims collectively at approximately $1 million.

Police investigators conducted seven searches in Montreal, Carignan and Sainte-Julie. They seized various pieces of evidence related to the investigation as well as three loaded firearms. These searches are in addition to two others that were conducted in October.

The suspects arrested are five men aged 19 to 33 and a 22-year-old woman.

Two schemes were allegedly used to trap the victims. In the first, the suspects pretended to be employees of a financial institution. A false representative called a victim to make them believe that a fraudulent transaction had just been made in their account in another province. The victim was then instructed to cut their bank card in two, without damaging the chip, and then insert the pieces into an envelope. The false representative then asked the victim to verbally give them their personal identification number, then gave them a false reference code to write on the envelope. A known delivery company was then used to pick up the envelopes. The company’s drivers were not involved in the fraud and were used without their knowledge, according to police. Once the cards were in their possession, the fraudsters quickly made purchases and withdrawals using them.

In the second scheme, the suspects called the victims, also posing as employees of a financial institution. A fake representative explained to the victim that, for security reasons, it was important that their money be transferred quickly to a new account at the same institution. The fake representative then invited the victim to log into their online banking account and guided them to help them create a new account and make a transfer. The fake representative managed to obtain the transfer confirmation number from the victim. After hanging up with the victim, the fake representative had access to the funds that had just been transferred.

Several other suspects are targeted in this criminal investigation and other arrests are expected. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact 911 or their local police station. It is also possible to communicate information anonymously and confidentially to Info-Crime Montréal at 514 393-1133 or via the reporting form available on the infocrimemontreal.ca website.

Police suggest the following prevention tips: never trust what is written on your phone display, because fraudsters use applications that allow them to write the names of financial institutions; never give personal information over the phone; tell the person who is soliciting you that you will call them back; never give in to pressure; always consult a family member or trusted friend to validate the information received; and when in doubt, do not hesitate to consult your financial institution yourself – in person or using an official number – or your local police station. n

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Four arrested in robbery and attempted murder in Pierrefonds

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Montreal police (SPVM) arrested three suspects for their alleged involvement in robbery and attempted murder that occurred in a park on the north side of Pierrefonds-Roxboro.

The incident took place on October 26 on the shore of the Rivières des Prairies in a public park. The victim, a 43-year-old man, drove an acquaintance to the park. He had previously met up with the 19-year-old woman at the same park after connecting with her through a social media platform.

Moments after arriving at the park for the second time, accompanied by the woman he had recently met, the victim was violently pulled out of his vehicle by three men who allegedly beat him up. At one point during the attack, the victim managed to escape, but was caught by the assailants and immobilized by two of the alleged attackers while one of them allegedly attempted to stab him, inflicting an injury to his upper body.

Despite his injuries, the victim managed to escape a second time. Once he was safe, he called 911 to report the assault. He also reported that the suspects took his cell phone and bank card during the altercation. It was later discovered that they used the stolen card to withdraw $3,000 from the victim’s account.

Evidence collected by the SPVM, as part of its investigation, made it possible for the suspects to be identified quickly. The first suspect that was arrested is a 22-year-old man. He was picked up at the Montreal Courthouse where he was dealing with a separate legal matter which the authorities have not disclosed. 

The second suspect, also a 22-year-old man, was downtown when he was arrested. Due to the level of risk he presented, the SPVM’s Tactical Intervention Group was summoned to proceed to his arrest.

The third suspect was arrested in the Ahuntsic-Cartierville borough where she was caught by the SPVM team leading the investigation.

Another 24-year-old woman allegedly linked to one of the suspects was also arrested the same day in her apartment in Longueuil, on Montreal’s South Shore. A search conducted at the apartment led to the discovery of an illegal .40-caliber pistol and ammunition.

The four individuals were arraigned at the Montreal courthouse. All will remain detained until the next stage of the legal proceedings.

Four arrested in robbery and attempted murder in Pierrefonds Read More »

Man killed under tons of rolled steel in Pointe Claire

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

A man in his thirties died tragically at his workplace, a steel distribution company on Hymus Boulevard in Pointe-Claire, last Thursday. He was crushed under more than a ton of steel rollers. For reasons yet undetermined, the steel fell on the man.

When first responders arrived, his death was pronounced nearly immediately on site. Firefighters that were dispatched to the scene to recover the victim, who was initially inaccessible and trapped under the rollers weighing more than 2,000 pounds, faced a tragic reality that the man could not be saved and were tasked with recovering his body.

Montreal police investigators are also investigating the possibility of criminal negligence in this case. The early results of the investigation revealed that no criminal element was involved and that the incident appears to be an unfortunate accident.

Inspectors from the Commission for Standards, Equity, Health and Safety at Work (CNESST) arrived on site later in the afternoon on Thursday to try to establish the circumstances surrounding the accident.

Man killed under tons of rolled steel in Pointe Claire Read More »

Former student files 600k lawsuit against John Abbott

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

John Abbott College (JAC) is at the centre of a lawsuit that was filed by a former student who was sexually assaulted in 2021 on the school’s campus. The student is seeking $600,000 in moral and punitive damages as well as the loss of future income. She stated that she needed to drop out of school as a direct result of the sexual assault committed by a supervisor of a volunteer program in connection with a psychology course that she was enrolled in three years ago. The student also claims that she was not able to pursue the career that she was studying towards.

The program supervisor Boris Stanley Paredes, aged 61 years old at present, pleaded guilty to sexual assault at the Montreal courthouse on September 3. As part of his sentence, he will receive a conditional discharge for a three-year period of unsupervised probation. The conditions include 240 hours of community service to be served by the half-point of his probation.

The assailant sexually assaulted the student when she was just 17 years old. A publication ban was placed on the identity of the victim. The lawsuit states that Paredes was an employee of the defendant, namely John Abbott College, since 1999. The victim’s lawyer, Jeff Orenstein, wrote that John Abbott’s insurer replied to a letter stating that Paredes was not employed by the school.

Also employed at the West Montreal Readaptation Centre based in Lachine, Paredes was running a program in connection to JAC as a supervisor of a “buddy” volunteer program through which the student was able to work with adults with special needs in order to produce journal logs to be submitted for one of her classes. He also had a JAC e-mail address and phone number assigned to him. The program took place in the Penfield section of the John Abbott College campus. The special needs participants were transported to the school campus. Student participants were paired with one of the guests. Together they would complete tasks such as cleaning, putting up posters and going for walks while the student would take notes in order to produce a report for a class offered at the school.

According to the lawsuit, a friendly relationship developed between Parades and the young victim. The two would often engage in conversation when the special needs visitors would leave for the day. “While defendant Paredes did not do anything overtly inappropriate, he would often comment on the plaintiff’s body and tell her that she was very beautiful. Defendant Paredes also stated that he knew how to give “pressure-point massages to relieve stress/anxiety and that he had performed this on other volunteers, as well as some of his special-needs clients.”

The victim explained to the courts that Paredes gave her three pressure-point massages while she was seated in a chair and that they appeared to her to have been done professionally. On the day that she was sexually assaulted in November 2021, the victim stated that she was feeling upset about a family matter when she entered Paredes’s office. “Different than the other occasions, defendant Paredes locked his office door, dimmed the lights, put on some music, cleared off his desk and told the Plaintiff to lie down on her back. He (then) began his ‘pressure-point massage’ on the plaintiff’s head, neck, arms and stomach. He then proceeded to massage the student’s buttocks for 15 minutes and breasts for between 30 and 45 minutes. When he was done, defendant Paredes said to the plaintiff things like ‘I can tell that you’re a girl that can’t say no’ and ‘if anything else would have happened, you might not have been able to stop it’, the lawsuit alleged.

In the weeks following the attack, the student would only allow herself to be in the presence of Paredes while taking part in the volunteer program and ensuring that another person was present. She did not immediately establish contact with police authorities to report the incident, however one of her friends informed the chair of the John Abbott College Sexual Assault Resource Team. According to the chair, it met with the student for five hours and prepared a statement that was filed to the Montreal police in December 2021. A warrant for Parades’s arrest was issued, only 10 months later, on Oct. 14, 2022. The chair also made arrangements for the student to consult a psychiatrist, but according to the lawsuit she eventually dropped out of school and attempted suicide.

The claims of responsibility made against John Abbott College and the readaptation centre have not been proven in a court of law to date. The guilty plea of the assailant, however, has been entered. 

Former student files 600k lawsuit against John Abbott Read More »

LBPSB election results

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

In the Sunday elections at the Lester B. Pearson School Board (LBPSB), the three contested wards saw significant voter participation, largely driven by the English-speaking community’s motivation to make their voices heard. Observers highlighted steady voter turnout and enthusiasm, reflecting a strong interest in maintaining the integrity of school boards. Compared to the previous election, this year saw a higher voter turnout, with 20% of eligible voters participating.

LBPSB Chair Judy Kelley noted, “Through local media, we observed significant voter participation, particularly from the English community. Many felt it was crucial this time to show their involvement and communicate to the Quebec government that their voices matter. The enthusiasm for voting was evident, with steady lines and a clear interest in maintaining our boards and supporting candidates’ platforms. This higher turnout compared to the last election highlights our strong, caring community.”

Here are the results for the contested wards:

• Ward 2 (Lasalle): Frank Di Bello successfully retained his position, defeating challenger Dario Arella. Di Bello continues his role as an influential advocate for English education in Quebec.

• Ward 6 (DDO Pierrefonds): Elena Sharzan emerged victorious over incumbent Craig Berger, bringing new perspectives to the board with her experience and commitment to community service.

• Ward 9: Maureen Barren was elected, defeating Michael Papoulias.Additionally, four new parent commissioners have been elected by their peers, ready to collaborate with the councillors and contribute to the school board’s ongoing development. n

LBPSB election results Read More »

Four attacks on three homes in Kirkland

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

A private residence located on Beaubois Street, near Timberlea Trail in Kirkland, was hit by gunfire for a second time in just a few months last week. Four attacks on three homes on that same street have occurred since late July.

Multiple 911 callers reported shots fired in the neighbourhood at around 11:45 p.m. According to the initial information, the suspect or suspects were in a vehicle when they opened fire at the residence and then fled on Timberlea-Trail. When officers arrived, they discovered bullet impacts on the residence and cartridge casings on the ground. The neighbourhood has an unusual amount of surveillance cameras installed on private homes, particularly those in the vicinity of the three homes that were targeted by attacks since the summer.

The neighbouring home was also investigated for an arson attack on August 12 that occurred three days prior to the first shooting at the same house that was hit last week. A vehicle that was parked in front of a house two doors down was also subject to an arson attack at the end of July.

Montreal police have launched an investigation. Neighbours and potential witnesses were questioned. No injuries were reported. n

Four attacks on three homes in Kirkland Read More »

Robert-Baldwin MNA leads fight in DPJ head resignation

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

The Director of Youth Protection (DPJ) Catherine Lemay resigned following reports of sexual abuse allegations by educators towards detainees at a juvenile detention and rehabilitation facility. Social Services Minister Lionel Carmant appointed former Laurent Commission member Lesley Hill as her replacement.

Robert-Baldwin MNA Brigitte Garceau, the official opposition critic on Youth Protection, had led the fight for Lemay’s resignation. She says she hopes Hill, also an assistant deputy minister because of the position, will have the independence she needs to make the necessary reforms.

The Liberal House Leader, Nelligan MNA Monsef Derraji, asked for an emergency debate on the DPJ after Lemay’s resignation. National Assembly Speaker Nathalie Roy — a CAQ MNA — granted it. It was the first emergency debate granted in four years, underlining the importance of the issue.

Garceau openly questions Carmant’s ability and fortitude to making the necessary changes to respond to the dire need for a “system clean up”.

The position of Commissioner for Children’s Welfare and Rights created by Bill 37, remains vacant since its inception last May. “Ultimately, once you’re in your seventh year of governance, if it hasn’t changed at the DPJ level, (then) it is the responsibility (that falls) on the government and the minister,” Parti Québécois Leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon stated at a news conference.

According to the report, nine female employees formerly employed at the Cité-des-Prairies centre allegedly had sexual relations with five minor detainees. It is also alleged that one of the employees had a baby with a detainee.

The facility is one of the last resorts for teens with limited or no other recourse towards rehabilitation, prior to reaching adulthood. Some of the detainees are awaiting transfer to prison for adults once they reach the age of majority. Some of the province’s most severe cases of juvenile misconduct, convicted criminals and teens in last resort situations reside at this facility.

Garceau has issued criticisms regularly about the failures of the youth protection system since being elected. She has demanded immediate attention to the problematic issues and particularly the in-house culture of protecting the system to the detriment of children’s rights. Garceau says she will carry on after the Lemay resignation until real resolutions are not only established but implemented in the system. n

Robert-Baldwin MNA leads fight in DPJ head resignation Read More »

West Island Mission is in a state of emergency

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

West Island Mission is now in a state of emergency, forced to limit its Christmas holiday distribution to existing clients only.

The food bank is not closing its data base to new clients entirely — however, it cannot take on the holiday season, only clients this year that it would normally serve in addition to its regular clientele.

The number of persons depending on WIM’s service has grown by 63 percent since last year, from 250 to 400 food bank users. WIM’s Executive Director Suzanne Scarrom told The Suburban that 35 per cent of the clientele are seniors and that the organization has noted a significant increase of single persons and new arrivals.

As the non-profit operates with the good will of donators, and as inflation has hit the Canadian population as a whole, those previously in a position to give some or a little either can no longer afford to donate or must limit their donations to keep their own households afloat. “The belt is tighter on the side of donators, we are going on two years of inflation. Not everyone can afford this anymore and others, with time passed, just accept as this is as ‘what life is like now’ and no longer view this as a crisis,” Scarrow explained. “It is never a good feeling to say no and turn people away, but right now, we also need to maintain our commitment to our existing clientele to provide adequately for the holidays.”

Scarrow explained that the current challenge is not new and has existed since the pandemic hit, but with a lowered response to the organization’s requests coupled with the increasing demand, WIM has been backed into a corner for this upcoming holiday season and had to make a very painful and difficult decision in order to fulfill its promise to the 400 families that it currently supports on a regular basis.

WIM’s toy drive will take place next Sunday, November 10 and its Porch to Pantry drive will take place on Sunday November 24. The organization is also currently setting up a centralized kitchen in partnership with Meals on Wheels at its new location on Brunswick Boulevard in Dollard-des-Ormeaux.

Since the start of 2024, Moisson Montreal, which supports the majority of food banks in the Greater Montreal Area (GMA) at various capacities, has served over one-third of the three million requests for food assistance in the province, on a monthly basis. n

West Island Mission is in a state of emergency Read More »

Pointe-Claire Public Works employees honoured

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Three City of Pointe-Claire Public Works employees were honoured for their outstanding contributions at the annual Public Works Stars Recognition Gala held recently.

The event was organized by the Quebec Public Works Association (TP Québec). These awards celebrate the excellence, innovation, and dedication of professionals working in municipal services.

Pointe-Claire Mayor Tim Thomas says he is proud but not surprised by the announcements. “They win awards every year. They are one of the best (public works teams) in the country,” Thomas told The Suburban.

Geneviève Rocheleau, Assistant Director of the Public Works and Buildings Department, was honoured for her exceptional commitment to diversity and inclusion, with a particular focus on promoting the role of women in Public Works. Her numerous initiatives have not only helped elevate the status of women in a predominantly male sector but have also paved the way for greater representation and participation of women in municipal infrastructure roles. On the same day Rocheleau was elected as President of the Quebec Public Works Association, making her the first woman to serve in this role.

“I am proud of all our winners, but especially proud of Geneviève’s accomplishments. Women’s accomplishments are honoured at the City of Pointe-Claire. We named the sports centre after Olive Urquhart, Pointe-Claire’s first woman Mayor and the second woman Mayor elected in the province,” Thomas said.

Mathieu Auclair won the outstanding manager award. He was recognized for his leadership and innovations as Manager of the Training and Performance Office, including the digital transformation of morning assignments, which reduced the time spent on this task by 60 per cent. This initiative earned Pointe-Claire the UMQ Ovation Award in 2020. His commitment to excellence and continuous improvement has transformed Public Works operations, notably through the integration of artificial intelligence into their processes.

Claude Lepage was a Finalist in the Health and Safety at Work category. As an experienced blue-collar worker in Public Works, Lepage played a key role in designing an innovative tool to improve working conditions for the road marking team. Faced with significant ergonomic challenges, including physical strain from the repetitive handling of paint templates, Lepage and his team developed a rail system that reduced repetitive strain injuries and boosted productivity. This project not only enhanced workplace health and safety but also cut pedestrian crossing painting time by 50 per cent and reduced paint usage by 10 per cent, making it a success both environmentally and for workers’ well-being. n

Pointe-Claire Public Works employees honoured Read More »

Mayor Plante will not seek re-election

By Dan Laxer and Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Reaction from Montrealers was mixed, but perhaps with more weight on the celebratory side, when news broke last week that Mayor Valérie Plante would not seek reelection. “Despite all the love that I have for my work and for our city,” Plante said at a news conference announcing her decision, “I won’t be asking Montrealers for a third term as mayor.”

Plante is in the final stretch of her second of two terms, first taking office in 2017. She had previously said that she would seek a third term. So what changed her mind?

“Recently I came to realize that I couldn’t commit to another four years and guarantee Montrealers the same level of energy I’ve always given.” Last December Plante suddenly fell ill during a news conference, nearly passing out, an incident she chalked up to stress and exhaustion. But she said, last week, “I’m fine. I’m all good, and I will fully assume my duties as mayor until the end of my mandate.”

Earlier this year Plante received criticism for blocking comments on her X (formerly Twitter) account, as well as on the Projet Montréal account. She defended the decision by calling out the abuse she had been subjected to. “Some may think there’s a fundamental right to call a person an ‘idiot’ or a ‘bitch’,” she posted, “and to normalize violence online. I don’t think so.”

Her platform included improvements to public transit, including the creation of a “Pink Line” in the Métro system linking Montreal-North with Lachine. That never came to fruition. Those who say they’re happy to see her go rail against the city’s bicycle paths and construction woes amid near-constant construction, and profligate spending related to environmentalism. Those are ideals she says she carried into office, and that she remains committed to. She also said she will continue to work “for the adoption of one of the major legacies of my administration, the Montreal Urban Planning and Mobility Plan.”

Official Opposition leader Aref Salem wished the mayor well, saying “I would like to thank Valérie Plante for her commitment to the metropolis since her election, despite our many disagreements on construction site management, homelessness, public safety and the state of citizen services.” As for Ensemble Montréal, Salem said “on the eve of the November 2025 municipal elections, Ensemble Montréal is mobilized and ready to overcome the many challenges facing the metropolis.”

Hampstead Mayor Jeremy Levi, a longtime critic of Plante including on her response to anti-Israel protests that took place after Oct. 7, humorously reacted by sending The Suburban a digitally created video of Plante on a large screen announcing her decision and a large audience cheering wildly.

Côte St. Luc Mayor Mitchell Brownstein recently said at a CSL council meeting during a discussion on the long-awaited Cavendish extension that Montreal needs a new Mayor. He told The Suburban, “I wish Mayor Plante good health and happiness in her future endeavours. I hope that her successor will move the Cavendish extension forward and will ensure that our city is a safer place for all Montrealers setting a tone of respect and zero tolerance for hate speech.”

DDO Mayor Alex Bottausci said, “Plante being there for as long as she has may have been good for specific boroughs. But I don’t see anything she has done that has been beneficial to anyone in the West Island or Montreal except people on bicycles. I don’t see any economic movement in Montreal.”

Beaconsfield’s Mayor Georges Bourelle told The Suburban, ”I am not very happy with how the agglomeration operates. It was not her that created the agglomeration. However we have had many discussions on the agglomeration to change regulations and share of expenses that went nowhere. During her tenure, we have not seen very positive things with demerged municipalities. She did not create the situation with demerged cities but she certainly did nothing to improve it.” n

Mayor Plante will not seek re-election Read More »

WI Tenant Action Committee holding four workshops on evictions

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

The West Island Tenant Action Committee (TQSOI) is offering four free workshops in response to the significant rise in evictions and repossessions of rental units in the West Island and Greater Montreal Area (GMA) over the last decade.

In the period from July 2022 to July 2023, the Association of Housing Committees and Tenant Alliances of Quebec (RCLALQ) received more than 3,500 tenant complaints related to forced evictions in the GMA.

“Based on the popularity of our rent increase workshop series, we have decided to expand our popular education efforts to other important and pressing topics for tenants,” TQSOI Community Organizer Lily Martin told The Suburban. “In the last 10 years, we have seen a dramatic rise in evictions and repossessions in the West Island and beyond, so it is more important now than ever that tenants be informed of their rights. There have also been some recent changes to the laws in Quebec regarding evictions and repossessions that all tenants should know about.”

The law referenced by Martin is the recently instituted Bill 65 which established a moratorium on evictions for the purposes of subdividing apartments, enlarging apartments substantially or changing destinations for a period of three years. The law also amends the Civil Code of Quebec to provide further protection to low-income seniors facing evictions and repossessions, lowering the age qualification from age 70 to 65.

The series includes four workshops, two online in French and English and two in person in each language. Though geared towards West Island tenants, the workshops are open to all tenants. Martin says the goal is to simplify the information as much as possible to make it useful for tenants. “We want to make sure people are not just hearing but understanding. The purpose is to make it as comprehensible and accessible as possible.”

English sessions will take place in person on November 19 and online on November 29. French sessions will take place online November 22 and in person November 26. In-person workshops will take place at 100 Douglas-Shand in Pointe-Claire. n

WI Tenant Action Committee holding four workshops on evictions Read More »

What else $30 million can buy for the WI

By Joel Goldenberg

Environmentalists are enthused about the Plante administration’s decision to buy land in the West Island from Hypertec for $30 million, expanding the Sources Nature Park, but there were other ways those funds could have been spent.

One example is $15 million for the long-promised expansion of the Jacques Bizard corridor to relieve traffic in the West Island municipalities, especially the area of Highway 40 and St. Jean, including building a new main road from Shakespeare in Dollard des Ormeaux to Highway 40.

As well, $300,000 a year could be devoted to continuing the fluoridation of West Island water in Pointe Claire and Dorval. Montreal’s decision to halt this in 2025 was based on that figure. The decision is affecting 140,000 people in Pointe-Claire, Beaconsfield, Kirkland, Baie-D’Urfé, Dollard-des-Ormeaux and Dorval.

Also, Beaconsfield is suing Montreal for $15 million, alleging a breach in the 2008 agreement of expense sharing in the island-wide agglomeration that was set up by the provincial government, resulting in what is alleged to be an overcharging of taxes.

Finally, $3 million could be spent for new buses to improve mobility in the West Island. n

What else $30 million can buy for the WI Read More »

LBPSB elections mostly uncontested

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

The 2024 elections at the Lester B. Pearson School Board (LBPSB) are generally uncontested, save for Electoral Divisions 2, 6 and 9.

LBPSB Chair Judy Kelley is uncontested.

Ward 1(Verdun and Île des Soeurs) : Linda Dalterio is uncontested.

Ward 2 (Lasalle): Dario Arella, currently employed at the English Montreal School Board (EMSB), is challenging incumbent Frank di Bello in Ward 2. Arella says that his approach is to be a “voice for parents” stating that “the wisdom of the parental experience as a part of the harmonious environment is to form the fertile ground for the growth of the minds and souls of our youngsters. The task of a school commissioner is to be the messenger of this parental wisdom.” Di Bello is an active member of the Council of Commissioners and a strong voice for English education in Quebec. He has represented the Board as President of the Comité de gestion de la taxe scolaire de l’Île de Montréal (CGTSIM), served as the Director of the Quebec English School Boards Association (QESBA), and as the liaison to the LBPSB Central Students’ Committee. Di Bello has also participated in numerous LBPSB sub-committees.

Ward 3 (Dorval and Lachine): Patrick Whitham is uncontested.

Ward 4 (Pointe-Claire): Allison Saunders is uncontested.

Ward 5 (Ile-Bizard and Ste-Genevieve): Malik Shaheed is uncontested.

Ward 6 (Pierrefonds-Roxboro East): Alaina Gross Charszan, currently serving as the parent commissioner representing the elementary sector, is challenging incumbent Craig Berger. Charszan has over 20 years of experience as a clinical social worker in public health and social services, and 15 years of experience as a family mediator. BCraig Berger is a former Westpark Elementary School Governing Board Chair and former Parent Commissioner, and also has been the Commissioner representing the wards for many years. He has been involved for over 25 years as a member of the Board of the Dollard Figure Skating Club, co-founder of the West Island Theatre Association and volunteer. He also has served as Vice-Chair of Council and the Executive as well as Chair of the Facilities and Security Committee investing millions of dollars into schools and facilities. Berger practices civil, commercial, corporate and family law at his law office.

Ward 7 (Pierrefonds-Roxboro West): Jason Doan is uncontested.

Ward 8 (Pointe-Claire South and Beaconsfield North): Marilyne Boyer is uncontested.

Ward 9 (Beaconsfield South and Île-Perrot): Michael Papoulias is running against Maureen Baron. Her campaign is to support the implementation of the school board’s Commitment to Success Plan, facilitate the sharing of information between the schools, centres and the council regarding successes and challenges, ensure the equitable sharing of resources among the schools and centres and contribute to the development of policies and procedures emanating from directives from the Ministry of Education. Papoulias dedicated 32 years to education. He retired from the Lester B. Pearson School Board in February 2024, where he most recently served as the Assistant Director of IT. “My journey in education taught me the power of asking questions and listening, along with the importance of empathy. I also spent over 17 years coaching youth and adult sports,” Papoulias stated.

Ward 10 (Senneville, Sainte-Anne de Bellevue North and Kirkland): Luisa Bulgarelli Vero is uncontested.

Ward 11 (St-Lazare, Rigaud): Daniel Olivenstein is uncontested.

Ward 12 (Pincourt, Vaudreuil-Dorion and Les Cedres): Angela Berryman is uncontested. n

LBPSB elections mostly uncontested Read More »

Pierrefonds’ Langevin accuses city of “buckpassing” on homeless

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

The Montreal Delegation of Quebec Community Organizations for Street Work (ROCQTR) supported by the Montreal Network for Assistance to Single and Homeless People (RAPSIM) has issued an open letter calling on the City of Montreal to respond to the social and housing crisis with concrete plans of action.

The rise in homelessness has far exceeded the threshold of front-line organizations in the Greater Montreal Area (GMA). “Outreach street workers remain determined and creative in the face of increasing demands and the growing complexity of realities and needs, all while facing increasingly difficult referrals to saturated services,” the letter reads.

One of the primary reasons that organizations become trapped in this cycle that continues to grow each year is because there is no long-term plan put in place. With the return of every cold season, the Agglomeration reacts with “emergency” measures which dissipate as the weather warms up. Users of the organization establishments, where street workers have the opportunity to work with them towards long-term goals, lose touch as they return to the street each spring. Workers are faced with a race against time, trying to sort out as many cases as possible towards stability, but the reality is that the majority of cases cannot be solved in just a few months’ time. “As outreach workers, we build trusting relationships with marginalized individuals. We accompany them in their daily lives within their living environments, and at their own pace,” the letter read.

While organizations plead with the City of Montreal, the Agglomeration points the finger at the provincial government, stating that it is the Minister of Health and Social Services that must allocate a budget. The Minister, Lionel Carmant’s office, responds that it requires a plan from the city that is responsible for communications with the organizations serving the homeless community to request a budget for their needs. City Councillor and Official Opposition for Homelessness in Montreal Benoît Langevin stated to The Suburban that year after year that the Plante administration has yet to listen to the organizations and request budgets for a long-term plan, instead it behaves “reactively” each year with temporary measures.

“We are saddened to see that the homelessness crisis has become more of an electoral issue than a human rights issue. Homelessness is being instrumentalized as a problem to exploit rather than solve. Announcements are being made while actions remain on hold,” the collective organizations stated in the open letter. “We need a comprehensive action plan, co-created with elected officials and communities. Outreach workers are not firefighters, and collectively, we can no longer put out fires in crisis after crisis. It is no longer enough to talk about the symptoms (which include) encampments, overdoses, tensions. We must address the root causes,” the letter reads.

The lack of long-term planning by elected officials, meaning larger budgets for long-term commitments, is at the centre of the “root causes” as a significant portion of the emergency response work performed by street workers could be resolved with permanent infrastructure offering follow up and follow-through services to its clientele. “Until real structural solutions are implemented, we will continue to chase temporary fixes with no lasting impact,” the organizations stated.

Even with the temporary actions as the only available structures, community organizations are widely funded by private donations. “We call on the City of Montreal to take responsibility for the current social crisis.”

“Year after year, we repeat the same requests, and they respond with the same mantra. Projet Montréal is passing the buck to Quebec every chance it gets. These organizations need long-term structural support and a municipal plan to reduce homelessness.” Langevin stated to The Suburban in response to the letter. n

Pierrefonds’ Langevin accuses city of “buckpassing” on homeless Read More »

DDO revitalizes Civic Centre

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

The City of Dollard-des-Ormeaux (D.D.O.) celebrated the official inauguration of its newly renovated Civic Centre last week. The event was attended by elected officials including D.D.O. Mayor Alex Bottausci, D.D.O. City Councillors Laurence Parent, Errol Johnson, Mickey Gutman, Tanya Toledano, Morris Vesely, Valerie Assouline, Ryan Brownstein and Anastasia Assimakopoulos along with representatives of various local organizations.

“The Civic Centre, the heart of the community life of Dollard-des-Ormeaux, has always been a privileged place to meet, exchange and enjoy activities for residents of all ages. With modernized facilities and redesigned spaces, it now meets even better the daily needs of our community, offering a warm and versatile atmosphere,” the city stated.

The revitalization of the centre includes new teleworking spaces, convivial relaxation areas, redesigned activity rooms and improved access for people with reduced mobility.

“With these renovations, the vision was to create a welcoming and functional space, where every resident, whether they are here for an activity or not, can feel at home,” Bottausci said. “The Civic Centre embodies the spirit of Dollard-des-Ormeaux as an inclusive and dynamic city. We are delighted to invite you to come and discover or rediscover this reinvented space.”

The Civic Centre stands as a local hub that plays an essential role in promoting sports, cultural and social activities. These renovations will ensure the efficiency of the Civic Centre as it continues to play a central role in community life as it offers modern and accessible infrastructures for current and future generations. n

DDO revitalizes Civic Centre Read More »

Montreal to stop fluoridating water at Pointe-Claire and Dorval plants

By: Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Montreal announced its plans to stop fluoridating West Island water in 2025. Montreal tap water has never been fluoridated. Should the agglomeration council pass the proposal, over 140,000 people in Pointe-Claire, Beaconsfield, Kirkland, Baie-D’Urfé, Dollard-des-Ormeaux and Dorval will be affected by its decision.

The water plants in Pointe-Claire and Dorval, which treat the majority of water in the West Island, are the only plants that fluoridate their drinking water in the Greater Montreal Area (GMA).

The City claims that the safety of city employees handling what was referred to as a “corrosive chemicals”, raises questions about fluoride’s health effects. It also referred to the high maintenance cost of fluoridation as a factor in the decision. According to statements made by Lachine Mayor Maja Vodanovic, the City does not want water used for “medications or pharmaceuticals”, a popular scientific theory in Denmark and surrounding countries, widely debunked by North American health authorities. According to Health Canada, Quebec’s Health Authority and the City of Montreal websites, fluoride is not only considered safe, but is also recommended. The sanitation chemical is also subsidized by the Quebec government.

The agglomeration also stated that the cost of keeping the fluoridation program would be $19 million in order to make the necessary upgrades to the plants, plus $330,000 per year in maintenance. The agglomeration council, which must authorize expenditures, will vote on the issue on December 24. West Island municipalities will only be able to present their views at the December 24 meeting and collectively only have one vote.

Heidi Ektvedt, Mayor of Baie-D’Urfé, says the population living in the affected municipalities should have been consulted beforehand. ”The City of Montreal decided to take over the water plants. It is then their responsibility to consult with our population before making decisions that concern them,” Ektvedt told The Suburban. “Politicians should not be making announcements, pronouncing themselves as health experts. Canadian studies do not acknowledge this ‘science’. It is not a question of whether or not I am not for or against it and it is not my decision, nor Montreal’s decision, to make. It is the decision of those who live here and consume the water.” n

Montreal to stop fluoridating water at Pointe-Claire and Dorval plants Read More »

Police arrest five in West Island,West End cocaine busts

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Montreal police (SPVM) arrested five suspects on October 2 and 4 as part of two-phase operation aimed at dismantling a drug trafficking network operating mainly in the West End and West Island of Montreal.

Searches were conducted in the boroughs of Ville-Marie and Anjou as well as in the Town of Mount Royal which led to the seizure of 36 kilograms of cocaine, $236,305 in cash and three watches worth $65,000.

Four of the five suspects were apprehended on October 2, 2024 in various locations including Pointe-Claire, downtown Montreal and the Town of Mount Royal. The suspects were aged 29, 31, 36 and 58. The fifth suspect, aged 32 years old, was arrested on October 4, 2024, in Anjou.

All of the five suspects were released following their arraignment pending further legal proceedings. They may face charges of possession and trafficking of narcotics, according to the SPVM.

The investigation and arrests were carried out by the criminal investigation and narcotics division of Montreal west end territories, in close collaboration with several SPVM units and with agents from neighbourhood stations 4, 5, 20, 26 and 46.

As the investigation is still ongoing, any person who may have information concerning the investigation is asked to dial 911 or visit their neighbourhood station. It is also possible to report any information anonymously and confidentially via Info-Crime Montreal at 514 393-1133 or via the reporting form available at infocrimemontreal.ca.

Police arrest five in West Island,West End cocaine busts Read More »

On Rock food drive helped by Robert Baldwin MNA and Youth Council

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

A food drive took place last Thursday and Friday at On Rock food bank in Pierrefonds-Roxboro, helped by the Robert-Baldwin Youth Council led by the MNA for Robert-Baldwin Brigitte Garceau together with On Rock’s operations manager Kayla Reid.

When Garceau heard that one of the organization’s freezers broke down resulting in the loss of over 1200 kg of food, she immediately reached out to her Youth Council to get involved and support the food bank and help restore its losses. “Everyone answered the call,” Garceau told The Suburban. “We heard from On Rock that $80,000 worth of food was gone. We knew that we needed to act quickly.”

“When Brigitte proposed this food drive, we jumped on it immediately. One of the mandates of the Youth Council is to go into the community and help with initiatives led by the MNA,” Youth Council member Earl Corales said to The Suburban. “On Rock is close to home for me. I went to school with many peers whose families seek their services. I understand the important role that On Rock plays in our community. I was deeply concerned by the effects that this (food loss) might have.”

On Rock Founder Kim Reid explained to The Suburban that On Rock restored the majority of the loss in four days with the support of Sun Youth and the Montreal Milk Federation, but with a growing demand — additional supplies are always needed and much appreciated by recipients.

Throughout the six hour food drive that ran from 1:00 p.m. — 7 p.m. last Thursday and Friday, representatives from neighbouring organizations and elected officials visited the food bank in a show of support. Some of those present at the time of The Suburban‘s visit included: Pierrefonds-Roxboro Mayor Jim Beis, Pointe-Claire Mayor Tim Thomas, and the Director of PCSM — Patrick Merrigan, Michel Leclair executive director of Projet communautaire de Pierrefonds, and Pierrefonds-Roxboro Councillors Benoit Langevin and Sharkie Tarakjian.

Food insecurity has soared with inflation and mortgage/rental increases. In Pierrefonds-Roxboro municipal taxes imposed by the Agglomeration has also had a significant effect on the abilities for families to afford both housing costs and food costs. The three West Island food banks play a major role in helping hundreds of families, seniors and other vulnerable persons in need. “These services are fundamental,” Garceau said. “We need to support them.” n

On Rock food drive helped by Robert Baldwin MNA and Youth Council Read More »

STM consults with Dorval residents on new service

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Montreal’s public transit network STM is launching a public consultation in order to gain insight into the public transit needs of City of Dorval residents.

The consultation is part of the bus network redesign project to serve the growing and everchanging demographics.

“The bus network redesign is one of the STM’s major initiatives,” Éric Alan Caldwell Chair of the STM Board of Directors stated. “It will eventually allow us to connect our various modes of transportation and improve mobility for hundreds of thousands of customers on the Island of Montreal. While it takes time for both customers and the STM to adapt to each stage of the redesign, the goal is to keep improving our services for public transit customers. I’d like to take this opportunity to reiterate that the redesign is being delivered at zero cost and takes into account everyone’s travel needs in order to provide the best possible service to as many people as possible.”

Dorval Mayor Marc Doret welcomes the consultation, stating that it is an excellent opportunity for Dorval residents to share their views and ideas on the major changes coming to the municipality over the next few years. “The public transit landscape in Dorval and the West Island is set to change, especially with the opening of the REM, and it’s important that local residents have their say through the STM’s consultation process,” Doret said.

Users who take part in the consultation will have two ways to tell the STM about their transportation needs. They can either join the virtual information session on October 17 at 6:30 p.m. or comment in writing on the dedicated consultation website until October 30.

Consultation participants will have the opportunity to comment on the ideas of others including those of the STM, suggest ideas and receive comments from other participants and be made aware of the results of the consultation once they become available.

To date, the STM has rolled out additional services in Lachine, LaSalle, Verdun, Sud-Ouest and the southern part of Ville-Marie. n

STM consults with Dorval residents on new service Read More »

Baie D’Urfe holds creative Truth and Reconciliation event

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Baie D’Urfé resident Oana Silagui-Bedikyan hosted the town’s annual Truth and Reconciliation event for kids and tots in the park last week.

Children, along with their families, were invited to share pizza and snacks, served up by Oana’s husband — Aksel Bedikyan. Then they were invited to gather round on thick blankets laid on the grass to listen to Silagui read a Native publication created by Elder Albert D. Marshall Mi’Kmaq, spiritual leader from the Moose Clan, Louise Zimanyi, and illustrator Emily Kewageshig-Anishnaabe from the Saugeen First Nation.

The idea is to build the same kind of community gathering that the Aboriginal soul represents, getting together and sharing stories in nature. Story-telling is the original medicine passed along to generations. In nature, we find the fundamental building blocks for children,” Silagui-Bedikyan told The Suburban.

The event took place at the lake front park across the street from the Town’s library. Kids enjoyed playtime in the park following the book reading. Many challenged each other to tree climbing competitions while others practiced skipping rocks on St-Louis lake. “They had the opportunity to experience the words in the book,” Silagui-Bedikyan explained. “Many people write to me after the event, feeling appreciative of just being able to sit down and listen to a gentle story that their kids can process and understand.”

Baie D’Urfé Mayor Heidi Ekdvedt attends the event annually. “It is so wonderful to see our community gather and we are grateful for these grassroots initiatives,” Ekdvedt told The Suburban. “We are a small town, filled with great people.” n

Baie D’Urfe holds creative Truth and Reconciliation event Read More »

SPVM School Zone operation results in over 8,500 tickets

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

The Montreal Police Department (SPVM) released the results of its “Back to School 2024” operation, which took place from August 26 to September 20. During these four weeks, SPVM police officers issued no fewer than 8,571 tickets to road users as part of 1,172 enforcement operations set up around the Greater Montreal Area (GMA).

Photo radar surveillance operations in school zones also took place. Some 1,840 infractions were noted during these operations. More than 178 hours of operation were carried out and 43,182 vehicles were captured.

Nine “living radar” operations also took place during this period, with the participation of students from different schools. This type of intervention allows immediate awareness of the dangers of excessive speed in school zones.

The 2024 school year also saw 1,063 prevention activities take place in the 29 neighbourhood police stations (PDQ) in the area. More than 9,000 bookmarks and leaflets were given to road users to raise awareness about safety around schools and sharing the street. Throughout the year, the neighbourhood stations carry out road safety prevention and surveillance operations, in addition to the National Concerted Operations (ONC) with all the police forces in the province. n

SPVM School Zone operation results in over 8,500 tickets Read More »

WI – Montreal police search for victims of alleged pedophile

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Montreal Police (SPVM) are searching for more victims of Michaël Michaud. The 41-year old man was arrested on July 3 and is facing multiple charges including sexual assault and possession, distribution and production of child pornography. Several minor victims have come forward with accusations.

The crimes for which he is accused, took place between 2011 and 2023 in the following cities: Montreal, Laval, Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts, Île-Perrot, Salaberry-de-Valleyfield, Saint-Clet and Saint-Polycarpe.

“The investigation teams of the SPVM Sexual Exploitation and Sexual Assault sections have strong reasons to believe that Michaël Michaud could have had other victims,” the police force stated.

The investigation revealed that Michaël Michaud had contact with several children over the years. He allegedly made friends with families with young children, offering them babysitting or mentoring services. It was when he was alone with the children that he allegedly committed sexual acts.

Michaël Michaud is Caucasian and speaks French. He stands 5’10” and weighs 223 lbs. He has brown hair, blue eyes and wears glasses.

Anyone who may have been a victim or who knows someone who may have been a victim of Michaël Michaud is asked to go to their local police station, call 514 280-8502 or contact 911 to file a statement. Anyone wishing to provide information anonymously and confidentially can do so by contacting Info-Crime Montréal at 514 393-1133 or by using the reporting form available at: infocrimemontreal.ca

As several victims have been identified, the Serial Crime Investigation Management Structure (GECS) has been deployed. This is a unified command within which Quebec police services work in partnership to identify crimes committed by predators. Coordinated by the Sûreté du Québec, the GECS aims to pool police resources and better protect victims of sexual assault. n

WI – Montreal police search for victims of alleged pedophile Read More »

West Island Health Authority informs patients of language rights

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

The West Island CIUSSS has placed posters throughout the healthcare institutions it manages to inform patients on their right to be served in English. Why does the health authority feel the need to do this initiative?

The answer lies in the highly criticized 31-page document issued by the CAQ government last July to apply Bill 96 language laws, created to “preserve the French language” and “strengthen” Bill 101, now in health care.

The controversial application of the law to healthcare could restrict complete access to healthcare services for Anglophones and impede on their rights under the Canada Health Act. “The CAQ government is prepared to sacrifice fundamental constitutional rights to life, liberty and security of the person to fulfill its language goals,” Montreal lawyer Julius Grey has stated.

Effective communication is essential in ensuring the safety of patients. Restricting a means of communication in healthcare can be potentially dangerous or life threatening. The CAQ government argues that the law is exempt in emergency situations, however without effective communication a situation that may be urgent, yet unapparent, could be overlooked without a means of communication. Cutting the line between patients and healthcare professionals and/or professionals within the institution is dangerous.

The immediate reactions of elected officials at every level of government, healthcare professionals and the general public generated a “revised” statement by Quebec’s French Language Minister Jean-Francois Roberge in less than a month, but not a retraction.

While the threat of impact on the Anglophone community looms in “revision”, the health authority has taken it upon itself to clarify their basic rights to be served in English.

The Suburban reached out to the CIUSSS-ODIM for comment. The authority’s representatives did not respond by press time. n

West Island Health Authority informs patients of language rights Read More »

DDO teacher gets two year prison term for sexual abuse

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Robert Charpentier was sentenced last Thursday to a two-year prison term for sexually abusing two students in the ‘80s and ‘90s.

The 77-year old former West Island teacher at Emmanuel Christian School in Dollard-des-Ormeaux was convicted in December 2022. The victims were so traumatized by the events that it took them nearly three decades to draw up the courage to come forward.

The victims expressed themselves during their victim impact statement explaining how the abuse had affected them throughout their lives, living with a sense of shame and betrayal. One of the victims stated that the trauma led him to drug and alcohol abuse.

Quebec Court Justice Guylaine Rivest stated in the sentencing the importance of an incarceration period for the crime despite that the accused was a first-time offender. The defence was seeking a lighter sentence of time to be served in the community, while the Crown was seeking a 24 to 30-month prison term.

“The need for denunciation and deterrence is so urgent that those objectives can be achieved only by incarceration. This prioritization must be even more rigorously applied when the offences were committed over an extended period and in a context of trust or authority,” the Judge wrote.

Following his prison sentence, Charpentier will be placed on probation for three years. He must provide a sample of his DNA and will be logged on the registry of sex offenders for a period of 10 years. n

DDO teacher gets two year prison term for sexual abuse Read More »

Pointe Claire Councillors receive death threats

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Two city councillors in Pointe-Claire were shocked to receive handwritten death threats delivered by regular post at Pointe Claire City Hall last week.

  • The letters read: You AHole, You trou de cul, You go to hell, You foff, You drop dead, God save P.T.C.” with the names of the councillors at the top of the page.

Pointe-Claire Director General (DG) Karina Verdon was quick to take precautions after City Councillor Kelly Thorstad-Cullen received the first note earlier in the week. “She (Verdon) handed me the letter while I was present for an urban planning meeting (on Friday) and asked me to open it in front of her,” City Councillor Eric Stork explained to The Suburban. Once it was confirmed that Stork had received the same threatening letter as Thorstad-Cullen, the DG immediately contacted the local police station 5 of the Montreal Police (SPVM) to book appointments for both councillors to issue their statements to the authorities.

Stork believes that a possible reason he and Thorstad were targeted is because both sit on the housing development committee at the City of Pointe-Claire. “We received this letter right after we approved a social housing project that was met with some controversy,” Stork told The Suburban, “Both my family and I are fearful and concerned by this direct threat. This is what happens when people, especially those with influence over constituents, invite and create misinformation. Rooted in this, I believe is the divisive politics spoken by some elected officials. Regardless, I will continue to represent my citizens regardless of the actions committed by the cowardly few.”

“It was quite a shock to receive a letter with such hateful and threatening messages. These types of behaviours are disgraceful and completely unacceptable. Council members are citizens of Pointe-Claire who work hard to make a difference in our city for all of our fellow citizens. We are mothers, fathers, grandparents, teachers, nurses, firefighters and lifelong volunteers in the community. Respect and integrity must prevail over lies and hatred,” Thorstad-Cullen wrote to The Suburban.

This incident is being taken very seriously and anyone with information related to this incident is urged to contact the local police station at (514) 280-0105 or report anonymously via the Info Crime platform at www.infocrimemontreal.ca or by phone at (514) 393-1133. n

Pointe Claire Councillors receive death threats Read More »

Pointe-Claire woman among 13 arrested for firearm trafficking

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Thirteen firearm trafficking suspects were arrested by the Quebec Provincial Police (SQ) on Thursday morning in the West Island and throughout the province.

More than 100 police officers and civilians were deployed to execute the arrests and conduct 16 searches early Thursday morning in Pointe-Claire, Longueuil, Boucherville, Saint-Hubert, Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Mercier, Saint-Roch-de-Richelieu, Saint-Marc-sur-Richelieu, Repentigny, Saint-Côme, Sainte-Émélie-de-l’Énergie, Fossambault-sur-le-Lac and Sainte-Catherine-de-la-Jacques-Cartier.

The suspects, ten men and three women, are Samantha Sarika-Singh, 40, from Pointe-Claire; François Plamondon, 38, from Fossambault-sur-le-Lac; Vincent Baril, 40, from Sainte-Catherine-de-la-Jacques-Cartier; Nicolas Gagné-Mercier, 23 years old from Gatineau; Omar Tissoudal, 21, from Mercier; Alexandre Ovalle, 41, from Carignan; Eddy-Félix Amador-Rojas, 37, from Longueuil; Yann-Michael Hervet, 53, from Saint-Marc-sur-Richelieu; Frédéric Vaillancourt, 52, from Sainte-Émélie-de-l’Énergie; Jason-Benoit Ialenti, 32, from Boucherville; Maxime Lajoie-Noreau, 35. from Saint-Roch-de-Richelieu; Maude L’Écuyer, 28, from Carignan and Marie-Ève Labonté, 43, from the borough of Saint-Hubert.

The suspects were arraigned by videoconference at the Quebec City courthouse on Thursday to answer to charges related to arms trafficking and/or drug trafficking.

The investigation leading up to these arrests was conducted by the Integrated Arms Trafficking Team (EILTA-Québec) and coordinated by the SQ. The operation began in October 2023.

According to authorities. the weapons, including twelve handguns that are most commonly used in violent firearm crimes, were mostly from the United States and were illegally imported into Quebec.

Authorities have not yet determined whether some of the weapons sold by this alleged firearm trafficking network were used. n

Pointe-Claire woman among 13 arrested for firearm trafficking Read More »

No solutions for neighbours of Pierrefonds hoarders

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

A family living on Devlin Street in Pierrefonds has seen their joy of living reduced for the last 25-years due to the hoarding of their neighbour. Numerous complaints were made to city officials in the last two decades and the family has been in direct contact with Pierrefonds-Roxboro Mayor Jim Beis since 2019. Beis even visited the property and spoke to neighbours, promising to do his best to help mediate the situation.

Beis explained to The Suburban that every possible course of action that could be taken by the municipality has been taken. “We’ve issued several tickets (via City of Montreal) and even sent crews to help clean up. At this level, there is only so much we can do regarding private property.” The Mayor also explained that the sensitive intersection between potential mental health involvement and legal considerations is difficult for authorities to navigate. Beis moved the file up the ladder to the City of Montreal and stated to The Suburban that he will look further into the matter in order to come up with answers for the complainants.

“This is a nice neighbourhood, but it is ruined by the ugliness and the stench coming from that house,” The neighbour explained to The Suburban. “It brings in mice and rats. There are things rotting there and it just keeps getting worse.”

The neighbour witnessed the City’s efforts to execute a clean-up of the property in 2021, where the owner kicked the workers off of his property, insisting on keeping his “belongings” in his front and back yard. When asked about this incident Beis said “That’s what I mean (by what was explained earlier) and in that case, all we can do is issue a ticket, which we have many times.”

The Suburban visited the neighbourhood and the putrid odours emanating from the yard were evident. A truck parked on the front lawn was filled with junk and surrounded by junk. The entire backyard had piles of junk, spreading over almost the entire canopy of terrain and reaching just a few feet short of the rooftop in certain spots.

“We understand that there may be some sensitive aspects to this problem, but everyone on this street is forced to live with the consequences. Where is the line drawn? Who is coming up with a fair solution? This certainly is not fair to us,” The neighbour explained. “We are not insensitive people, but its to the point where people are uncomfortable sitting outside on their own properties, at times. The City, or someone, has to come up with a solution. We understand that this is difficult, but for us who are forced to ‘live with it’, is that fair?” n

No solutions for neighbours of Pierrefonds hoarders Read More »

President’s Cup: Event Awesome…traffic a mess

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

The President’s Cup at the Royal West Golf Club that took place last weekend generated a major increase in car traffic crossing the Jacques-Bizard bridge connecting Pierrefonds-Roxboro to Île-Bizard with 30,000 visitors coming in for the tournament daily for six consecutive days. Some residents argued that the drive-in allowance pass system issued by the City of Montreal, distributed just two weeks prior to the event, posed more problems than solutions. With long wait times at the checkpoints, the drive-in pace was further slowed down.

“The majority of people are pretty frustrated by the way things were organized. The system put in place to manage traffic and the volume of traffic has been a mess since Tuesday,” Renaissance Coiffure owner and operator Julian Brun told The Suburban. “A caregiver in charge of bringing medication to an elderly client was unable to deliver. People visiting their parents had to change plans. Most elderly stayed in, not wanting to be involved in this mess. Children had to be kept home from school.”

With no public anglophone schools on the island, the majority of students affected were those attending anglophone public schools and private schools located off Île-Bizard.

A single entry checkpoint was set up on Pierrefonds Boulevard Eastbound between Hamel Street and Jacques-Bizard Boulevard during the cup except for the afternoon rush where access was also permitted from Pierrefonds Boulevard Westbound. The ferry was reserved for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers who were issued passes. The checkpoint for the ferry was set on Des Bois Avenue in Laval. No access restrictions were applied to pedestrians or cyclists. Street parking was strictly forbidden on the entire Île-Bizard island during the event.

In speaking with The Suburban prior to the event, Ile-Bizard Mayor Doug Hurley expressed his reservations about the access passes planned by the Montreal Agglomeration, suggesting that it would only contribute to complicating matters surrounding the event, not to mention the additional expenditure for a “solution” planned without consulting Île-Bizard. “The main solution is to ban street parking and provide a lane exclusive to shuttle buses during arrival and departure times,” Hurley explained. “There is also the aspect of additional security, which is provided by Île-Bizard, but as this is a Montreal event, they should fork the bill. We are best suited to manage locally, but since we are providing a service for a private event organized by the City of Montreal, our residents should not be paying for that. The tickets given out are sent to the city, it does not come back to us. The city should not be using public money for a private event in either case. We can provide the service, because we have the set-up and capacity but someone has to pay that bill, not the public.”

Following the event, The Suburban contacted Mayor Hurley for comment as the City of Montreal did concede to some of his suggestions such as the no-parking rule on the island throughout the event. “All I have gotten is complaints from people (as predicted), such as doctors and nurses not getting access to homes of patients, deliveries to pharmacies and grocery stores being blocked, even school buses. Vehicle fleets (such as these), are interchangeable as they have many vehicles that serve (interchangeably).”

Hurley advocated against the passes for several months prior to the event taking place. “As a former police officer, I know what is involved in stopping and directing cars. Checkpoints slow things down. The time it takes to check for passes and redirect those who don’t have them into another lane (or towards the distribution point for passes) was unnecessary and unhelpful for this event. This is not Ville-Marie. The people running the committee are not from an emergency background, they are from a tourism background and lack the experience of working with emergency services.”

Pierrefonds-Roxboro Mayor Jim Beis shared Hurley’s point of view and added that “checkpoints at the main artery between the East and West of Pierrefonds-Roxboro and on the commercial strip caused loss of accessibility to businesses on the commercial strip (in that same location) and created more traffic through residential areas.”

Both Beis and Hurley advised the police authorities on-site hired by the City of Montreal to direct traffic on how they could potentially relieve congestion. “After a few days they decided to take our advice and the situation improved,” Beis said.

According to Hurley, nearly 100 SPVM officers were deployed over six days to manage the traffic circulation and bridge-pass verifications. n

President’s Cup: Event Awesome…traffic a mess Read More »

West Island coach found guilty of sexual assault

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Robert Litvack was found guilty of sexual assault and sexual interference on a 13-year-old late last week.

The 44-year-old Dollard-des-Ormeaux (DDO) man who coached various sports teams throughout the West Island was handed the guilty verdict by Justice Josée Bélanger of the Quebec Court.

As a direct result of his trusted position, Litvack managed to attack the young aspiring athlete who faced his aggressor in court, sharing his testimony last July alongside his parents.

At the time that the assaults occurred, Litvack was giving personal baseball training lessons to the teen in preparation for the next season. As part of the training session “preparations” Litvack massaged the teen’s legs, then told him to lower his underwear at which point he proceeded to massage his exposed buttocks for an average of 15 seconds during each session.

Litvack also invited the teen to participate in a disturbing version of a driving lesson, first allowing him to steer his car, then asking him to sit on his lap. During some car rides, Litvack tickled the teen on his inner thigh and repeated the same unwanted tickling while the teen was cornered in a baseball batting cage.

The privacy of the training sessions was further enhanced by the Covid-19 regulations coupled with the colder weather which stipulated that the teen could not be accompanied by his parents while participating in a private indoor training session.

According to the teen’s testimony, the unwanted gestures made him feel uncomfortable to the level where he was apprehensive each time he crossed paths with Litvack. “It’s not that I dreaded the practices, but when they were about to start, I was counting down the minutes,” he told the court last summer.

The ongoing sexual assaults ended after the youngster found the strength to talk about it to his mother, who in turn discussed the issue with his father. Together, the family decided to file a police report.

The AA bantam baseball coach was arrested in DDO in May 2021. The case caused a stir in the West Island due to Litvack’s involvement as an administrator in the Lac-Saint-Louis baseball organization. He was also a hockey coach. n

West Island coach found guilty of sexual assault Read More »

Beaconsfield’s Kim Bellas leads Walk for Wellness

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Beaconsfield’s Kim Bellas, founder of Sober Is The New Cool (SITNC), will lead the Walk for Wellness on Mount Royal this coming Saturday morning Sept.28. The date was chosen because it coincides with International Recovery Day.

Bellas founded SITNC in 2013. “My 13-year old son Matthew started having grand mal seizures. Needless to say our world was turned upside down. As a mom of course my first reaction was how can I fix him? As medication was our only solution alcohol would be a definite no no,”Bellas said. At the age of 52, Bellas decided to give up drinking for three months to prove that alcohol and drugs were not a necessity to have fun. “Little did I realize the social pressures I would encounter.”

According to Bellas, in 2013, not many people or sites were openly discussing the shame and stigma surrounding mental health and addiction. Bellas created a Facebook page and shortly after the messages started pouring in from people all over the world who felt the could relate to the discussion and who shared her view of normalizing being sober.

Portage and Centre Summit are partnering with SITNC in the Walk this year. Over 25 countries internationally will also be holding Walks for Wellness on the same day. The Walks seek to raise awareness about wellness and recovery, de-stigmatize addiction and create a supportive community for wellness.

For the organizers it’s about all of us being in it together and helping. Why?

Because everybody — at some time or another — is recovering from something painful. Their message is “recovery is possible for everyone.”

The special guest at the walk will be Robert-Baldwin MNA Brigitte Garceau, who will be reading her National Assembly Recovery Day declaration. Other guests will be Allan Farkas, National Director of Admissions and Community Relations at Portage Drug Addiction Rehabilitation Centres; Joshua Haupt, Founder of Centre Summit addiction treatment services and counselling centre and Monica Merleau, yoga teacher and spiritual and mindfulness specialist.

All participants are asked to gather Saturday at 10:30 am at the Mount Royal Chalet, 1196 Camillien-Houde Road for the walk to the Mount Royal Cross. n

Beaconsfield’s Kim Bellas leads Walk for Wellness Read More »

LGH opens “game-changing” Family Medicine Unit

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

.A ribbon-cutting ceremony took place at the Lakeshore General Hospital’s (LGH) new family medicine unit last week. The unit will serve to respond to the shortage of family doctors in the West Island, while the average population lacking a family doctor across the province has reached near 30 per cent. It will also serve as a teaching unit with up to 26 residencies taking place over time and 12 expected by next July. 

The ceremony was attended by West Island Mayors Tim Thomas for Pointe-Claire, Michel Gibson for Kirkland, Jim Beis for Pierrefonds-Roxboro and Heidi Ekdvedt for Baie-D’Urfé. “This clinic is not only an important step for the hospital, but a testimony to its greatness,” LGH Director and Associate Chief of family medicine Dr. Shadi Abid told The Suburban. “The immense shortage of family doctors calls for an effort to address that need and that is what we have done here. With each new doctor, we will be able to care for more patients.”

According to the President and Director-General for the West Island Health Authority (CIUSSS-ODIM), Dan Gabay, there are now 6,600 patients already registered to the new clinic, with that number expected to grow significantly as the unit acquires staff in collaboration with McGill’s residency programming. “By acquiring the modular (to renovate the ER), the opportunity for a second floor to position the family medicine unit became possible. By having primary care for patients, it lessens the pressure on the hospital. It is embedded in the hospital intentionally because we want to develop academia within Lakeshore and family physicians are the first big push via McGill with the intention to bring physicians from all specialties (over time).”

“This is an important game-changer for the West Island community. Family medicine is often the first line of care and we have overcome many challenges in bringing this unit to life,” Managing Director at the LGH Foundation Nathalie Kamel said to The Suburban.

“This is an inspiring project. We need to see more responses (like this) to the needs in health care, in the West Island and throughout the province,” Pointe-Claire Mayor Tim Thomas told The Suburban.

“First line medical care and social responsibility are a priority for us,” Marion Dove, Chair of Family Medicine at McGill University, stated. “With the creation of the GMF-U (family medicine unit), we will prepare the next generation of doctors.” n

LGH opens “game-changing” Family Medicine Unit Read More »

Dellar Residence Run in Pointe Claire raises over 300k

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

The 8th edition of the “Course pour la Compassion” run that took place at Valois Park in Pointe-Claire last Saturday raised $307,500 for the Teresa Dellar palliative care residence. The run began at 9:00 a.m. at the park with 730 participants. Champions for Life Foundation Founder and Ambassador for the Course de la Compassion and former national Taekwondo champion David Arsenault led attendees into a fun warm up activity. Arsenault was joined by former National track and field athlete Steve O’Brien. Maya Johnson hosted the on-stage announcements and presentations.

The run kicked off at 10:00 a.m. with runners leaving from the north-side of the park starting towards Belmont Street. Participants were guided throughout the neighbourhood by volunteers at multiple stops along the way cheering on the runners. Two course set-ups, one for 1km run participants and the second for 5km run participants, with both loops leading back to the south side of the park from Donegani Avenue.

In the park, snacks and beverages were served and participants along with volunteers and supporters of the cause mingled until late afternoon. Elected official in attendance included the MNA for Robert-Baldwin Brigitte Garceau, the MNA for Jacques-Cartier Gregory Kelley, Nelligan MNA Monsef Derraji, St-Laurent MNA Marwah Rizqy, Pointe-Claire Mayor Tim Thomas, Pointe-Claire City Councillor Cynthia Homan, Kirkland Mayor Michel Gibson, Pierrefonds-Roxboro Mayor Jim Beis, Dorval Mayor Marc Doret and DDO City Councillor Errol Johnson.

Three-time Olympian in artistic swimming and gold medalist in the World Aquatics Championship, Jacqueline Simoneau participate in the race alongside her grandmother, a former caregiver and ongoing supporter of the residence. The previous day, senior residents from the Cambridge residence along with some of their family members participated in a walk-a-thon raising $13,500 towards the total sums collected.

“I love the inclusiveness of this event and express my heartfelt gratitude to all those who participated. Today also marked an important milestone as this event has now passed the 1-million-dollar mark in cumulative funds raised since the beginning!” Dale Weil, Executive Director of the Teresa Dellar Residence stated. “Our supporters, dedicated volunteers, generous sponsors, and devoted colleagues are the cornerstone of our ability to sustain the delivery of the high-quality palliative care that our patients and their families so deserve. We cannot thank them enough.”

Major sponsors of the event included presenting sponsor Pfizer Canada, the City of Pointe-Claire, Charles River Laboratories Inc., as well as Uniprix Sainte-Anne and Lachine. n

Dellar Residence Run in Pointe Claire raises over 300k Read More »

DDO seniors club celebrates 25th Anniversary

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

The Dollard-des-Ormeaux (DDO) Seniors Club marked its 25th anniversary with a Gala that was held at the banquet hall located in the DDO Civic Centre last week.

The celebratory event was attended by more than 160 members and volunteers. Elected officials in attendance were DDO Mayor Alex Bottausci, MNA for Robert Baldwin Brigitte Garceau along with DDO City Councillors Errol Johnson, Mickey Guttman, Tanya Toledano, Morris Vesely and Anastasia Assimakopoulos.

Founded in 1999, the DDO Seniors Club has been a cornerstone for seniors in the community, offering a welcoming space for social connection, personal growth, and well-being. Over the past 25 years, the club has grown to serve more than 800 members annually, providing a wide range of physical and social activities, and opportunities for seniors to stay engaged and connected.

During the event, special recognition was given to the club’s founding president, Joyce Sweeney, for her visionary leadership, and the current president, Francine Lamotte, highlighted the dedication of the board, volunteers, and members who continue to sustain the club’s success. “I want to pay tribute to all those who have passed through the club, who have evolved with it and who have enabled its sustainability and achievements over all these years. I am talking here about each of you, the members, all the volunteers, the boards of directors and employees as well as our partners, the main one of which is the city of Dollard-des-Ormeaux,” Lamotte stated.

As the club enters its next chapter, it remains committed to its mission of providing a space for seniors to thrive, build friendships, and stay active. With the ongoing support of the City of DDO and valued sponsors, the DDO Seniors Club looks forward to many more years of making a positive difference in the lives of its members. n

DDO seniors club celebrates 25th Anniversary Read More »

“Divisive politics have no place in healthcare!”:Kelley

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

The National Assembly has unanimously adopted a Liberal motion, supported by Québec Solidaire, emphasizing that English-speaking Quebecers do not need to obtain a certificate of eligibility to access health and social services in English in Québec.

In speaking to The Suburban, Gregory Kelley, the Official Opposition critic for relations with English-speaking Quebecers stated that, “No confusion should ever exist in the health network where a person feels they need to prove their right to have access to healthcare. When a patient shows up to a hospital, it is for a medical test and not a language test.”

The motion, tabled by André Fortin, Liberal MNA for Pontiac, requires the government to ensure that any directives given to the health and social services network are clear and explicit on this matter.

In recent months, complete confusion has arisen following the publication of a government directive on the use of languages other than French in the health and social services network. Many citizens have expressed concern that they would not be able to receive health care in English.

According to Kelley, it was imperative to remind the government of its responsibilities, particularly with the presentation of this motion. ‘’The CAQ has finally understood the importance of ensuring that every individual in Quebec, without exception, can access health care, and that language should never serve as an obstacle. They created a 31-page document to explain why and how they are applying language laws to healthcare. Lucien Bouchard (the former Premier of Quebec) said, “When you go to a hospital you may need a blood test but you don’t need a language test.’ Bottom line is that divisive politics do not have a place in the healthcare system.”

When asked for an “on the ground” example of what the confusion relayed to him directly looked like, Kelley told The Suburban about an elderly constituent whose spouse was concerned about bringing him to the hospital as he lost his bilingual capabilities due to dementia. “The senior community, in particular, has been really shaken up by this. It affects everyone. It is wrong. Period.” n

“Divisive politics have no place in healthcare!”:Kelley Read More »

New Ile-aux-Tourtes bridge construction update

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

The anticipation for the new Île-aux-Tourtes bridge continues to grow as traffic related challenges continue to affect residents of the off-island communities.

The first of two structures, namely the westbound structure, is expected to be competed by the end of 2026, according to the Quebec Transport Ministry (MTQ). “At this moment, the building of the first of the two structures to transfer the circulation is expected in two years,” MTQ spokesperson Sarah Bensadoun told The Suburban.

Once opened to traffic, the westbound bridge will have five lanes open to vehicle traffic temporarily until the second structure is completed. Upon its expected completion in 2027, the second structure — which will service eastbound traffic — will have three lanes open to vehicle traffic, as will the first.

Meanwhile the old bridge is slated to be decommissioned toward the end of 2026.The two structures will have three vehicle traffic lanes as well as a cyclist lane, pedestrian lane and emergency lane, totalling six lanes per bridge, in either direction. n

New Ile-aux-Tourtes bridge construction update Read More »

Ile Perrot: Small town hosts big town style blues night

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

The 12th edition of the Ile-Perrot VIP Blues weekend, that took place last Friday and Saturday evenings in nearly-perfect weather conditions at Parc des Générations, was the best one yet with dozens of local restaurants serving up Creole, Greek, Asian and Canadian dishes along the walkway on Perrot Boulevard leading up to the stage.

Seb and Jess kicked off the evening with dynamic showmanship gathering a crowd of a few hundred attendees.

The Cite-des-Jeunes High School “Combo Jazz” group wowed the Friday evening attendees who could barely believe that the stellar performance taking place was primarily made up of young high school students.

The entertainment portion of the evening was topped off with a surprise performance by the People’s Gospel Choir, led by Kimble Sherwood who is famous for his composition of a song that was performed at an event held for Nelson Mandela upon his visit to Montreal in 1990. That very song came back to life in the heart of Ile-Perrot last Friday evening, a small town of 12,000 residents.

DJ breaks in between performances allowed attendees that showed up at various times to grab a snack.

Blockades on both ends of the street were set up by the City of Ile Perrot staff members who remained on site to direct traffic throughout the evening and patrol the walkway. Inside the event, pedestrians roamed freely from booth to booth, tasting a variety of culinary delights while being entertained by a juggler on stilts.

A VIP section near the center-right of the stage was set up next to booths serving signature micro brasserie style beers brewed locally. Surrounding the VIP section were crowds of cheering spectators, dancing, clapping and singing along to their favourite tunes.

The live music could be heard several blocks away from the event, serving to gather curious residents towards the park. n

Ile Perrot: Small town hosts big town style blues night Read More »

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