Montreal Daily
Hello Montreal!
We hope your coffee is strong this morning, because between the potholes, the reforms shifting once again, and the buses that will soon be taking new routes, there’s plenty to keep your eyes wide open. Get comfortable — let’s go through it together.
📰 Top Worry
STM prepares a major overhaul of its bus network
The STM is getting ready to launch a complete reorganization of its bus network as soon as the REM’s Anse‑à‑l’Orme branch opens later this year. They’re calling it “the biggest remake ever.” For many riders, this will mean rethinking routes, adjusting routines… and maybe double‑checking your itinerary before heading out. A major shift that will reshape how people move around the west end of the city.
⚡ Quick Hits
Medical reform: a step back
Health Minister Sonia Bélanger has introduced new legislation removing most of the remaining controversial clauses from the physician compensation reform (Bill 2).
Liberal Party tensions
Geneviève Hinse rejects accusations from Marwah Rizqy and is suing her for $500,000 for what she calls an “unfounded” dismissal. The dispute had led to the Liberal leader’s resignation in December.
Conjugal violence: Quebec highlights its progress
The government says it has implemented 96% of the 190 recommendations from a 2020 report. This update comes after a death in Brossard was confirmed as a femicide‑suicide — the sixth possible case this year.
Record halibut in the Saguenay
Alain Hamel caught a female halibut measuring 2.05 metres and weighing 244 pounds in the Saguenay Fjord — the largest specimen recorded since the Fjord Museum’s scientific fishing program began.
Canadiens: a win before the Olympic break
Montreal beat Winnipeg 5–1. Brendan Gallagher and Josh Anderson each had a goal and two assists, and Samuel Montembeault made 36 saves. The team extends its point streak to five games.
Charges against Gavin McKenna
Canadian hockey player Gavin McKenna, 18, is facing aggravated assault charges in Pennsylvania.
Mark McMorris taken off course on a stretcher
Canadian snowboarder Mark McMorris was evacuated after a fall during big air training at the Milan‑Cortina Olympics.
Police raids targeting the Hells Angels
Operations targeted an alleged cocaine network and territorial control system linked to Hells Angels chapters in Quebec.
Settlement for gondola malfunction victims
A $5.1‑million settlement for victims of ski gondola malfunctions will be presented to Quebec Superior Court on March 3.
🏙️ Chez Nous
Potholes everywhere
Montreal has received more than 4,200 pothole reports since January 1 — already one‑third of last year’s total. Mayor Soraya Martinez Ferrada calls the situation “catastrophic,” with repairs slowed by extreme cold and equipment breakdowns.
A young entrepreneur who inspires
Adriana Jackson, 13, founder of the online shop Boutique Winnie and Moe, will be honored Saturday at the West Island Black Community Association’s Young, Gifted & Rising event. She launched her business in 2020 while living with generalized epilepsy.
Support for cancer patients
The Cedars Cancer Foundation celebrates 10 years of its bell‑ringing program and comfort kits, which have supported more than 12,000 newly diagnosed MUHC patients. The fund, created by survivor Judy Martin, has raised over $2 million.
💙 Spotlight
Judy Martin’s initiative — offering comfort and support to more than 12,000 cancer patients — is a reminder of how solidarity can transform difficult moments.
🧭 Practical Corner
With more than 4,200 potholes reported since the start of the year, it’s wise to plan a few extra minutes for your commute… and keep a close eye on the road.
🌞 Conclusion
Thanks for starting your morning with us. Take care, breathe deeply, and move at your own pace — even if the buses change their routes before you do. See you tomorrow for another look around Montreal.
EXCERPT:
The STM is preparing a major overhaul of its bus network with the arrival of the REM’s Anse‑à‑l’Orme branch, a large‑scale change that will reshape routes and daily habits for many riders.