Hello Montreal! The coffee is hot, the city is moving in every direction, and today’s concerns take us from provincial politics to major infrastructure projects, with a stop in the cultural scene. Let’s dive in.
What to Know
Federal employees returning to the office Starting July 6, federal public servants will be required to be in the office four days a week, a gradual return to pre‑pandemic routines.
SAQ: American products returning to shelves Beginning February 12, the SAQ will restock certain American products whose quality could deteriorate by March 2027. A temporary pause in the boycott.
AQCPE fears a shortage of educators Early childhood centres warn that the new secularism bill could worsen staffing shortages by banning religious symbols.
Quebec constitution: clash with First Nations A National Assembly hearing turned confrontational. Indigenous leaders denounced the proposed constitution as “assimilationist,” while Justice Minister Jolin‑Barrette accused a chief of misrepresenting his words.
CAQ leadership race: Drainville wants more debates Bernard Drainville is calling for additional debates, a request rejected by Christine Fréchette. Two debates are scheduled in March; the new leader will be chosen April 12.
Laval tragedy: a mother testifies The mother of two children drowned by their father in 2022 gave emotional testimony in court. The trial is expected to last five weeks.
Canadians support EV deal with China According to Spark Insights, 78% of Canadians approve of the agreement allowing 49,000 Chinese electric vehicles to be imported annually in exchange for increased canola sales.
Heated Rivalry showcases Quebec talent Composer Peter Peter has two songs charting on Billboard thanks to the hit series. A second season is confirmed.
Fonderie Horne: Legault ready to guarantee seven years of stability The government is willing to offer Glencore regulatory predictability if local elected officials confirm social acceptability.
ICE agents in Canada: nothing new ICE offices listed online have existed for years. Their role here is administrative, not enforcement‑related.
Air Canada before the Supreme Court The Supreme Court will hear a class‑action lawsuit alleging the airline charged passengers more than the advertised ticket price.
Close to Home
Hydro‑Québec speeds up work in Côte‑Saint‑Luc Preparatory work for a new substation will intensify to improve electrical reliability.
Municipal political parties: poor performers Only two of the five parties that ran mayoral candidates submitted their campaign expense reports on time.
Crisis at the Douglas Institute Flooding destroyed four laboratories and halted around 100 research projects. The building may be closed for months.
35th Black History Month A rich program of exhibitions, performances, concerts, and guided tours celebrates Black history and culture in Montreal.
Practical Corner
Plan your travel: major work begins on Highway 520 on February 10, cultural events are happening across the city, and winter roads remain unpredictable.
Spotlight
A nod to the powerful programming of Black History Month — a vital celebration that highlights the voices shaping Montreal.
Have a great day, Montreal, and take care of yourselves.