Daily Digest

Good morning Montreal! The coffee is hot, the news is fresh, and some of today’s stories remind us that even the services we use every day — like Uber — come with very real risks. Between the debates shaking up Quebec politics, the initiatives reshaping our neighbourhoods, and the stories that bring us back to what matters, there’s plenty to catch up on this morning. Let’s dive in.

TOP STORY

Quebecers can save up to $7,000 on an electric vehicle starting February 19

If you’ve been thinking about switching to electric, this might be the moment. The federal government has announced a new rebate program that could save you up to $7,000 on the purchase of an electric vehicle. Here’s how it works: Ottawa is now offering a $5,000 rebate on EVs priced under $50,000. Add the existing $2,000 provincial rebate, and you get $7,000 in savings.

Plug‑in hybrids also qualify, with a $2,500 federal rebate that can reach up to $3,500 when combined with Quebec incentives. The program begins February 19 and applies to vehicles from countries with which Canada has a free‑trade agreement. One interesting detail: EVs built in Canada won’t be subject to a price cap.

The government is also investing $1.5 billion into the national charging network. And let’s not forget: in Quebec, 42% of vehicle sales in the last quarter of 2024 were electric — a higher rate than California. We’re already ahead of the curve.

WHAT TO KNOW

Uber ordered to pay $8.5M in sexual assault case

A federal jury has ordered Uber to pay $8.5 million to a woman who says she was raped by a driver during a 2023 ride. The verdict, delivered in Arizona, echoes the voices of thousands of survivors demanding accountability. Uber maintains it is not responsible for the misconduct of its drivers, who are classified as gig workers rather than employees. The company plans to appeal.

Canadian Tire fined $1.3M for misleading advertising

The retail giant pleaded guilty to 74 charges for artificially inflating “regular prices” to make discounts appear larger. The investigation targeted knife sets, cookware, and a Dewalt cordless drill. Canadian Tire must pay the fines within 12 months.

Luigi Mangione opposes consecutive trials

The man accused of murdering UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson argued in court that holding two trials amounts to “double jeopardy.” His state murder trial is set for June 8, three months before jury selection in his federal case. Mangione, 27, has pleaded not guilty to both sets of charges.

Free shingles vaccine for those 71+ — but is it enough?

Since February 1, Quebecers aged 71 and older can receive the shingles vaccine for free. But many argue the age threshold is too high. One in three Quebecers will develop shingles in their lifetime, and the vaccine costs about $300 for those not eligible. Prince Edward Island lowered its eligibility age from 60 to 50 in 2024.

Montreal tech entrepreneur confirms meeting with Jeffrey Epstein

A veteran Montreal tech entrepreneur has acknowledged visiting Jeffrey Epstein on his private Caribbean island while raising funds for a startup. The admission follows the release of U.S. government documents detailing years of contact between the two men.

Quebec teen accused of terrorism pleads not guilty

A 16‑year‑old from the Quebec City region, accused of promoting neo‑Nazi ideology, pleaded not guilty Friday morning.

End of the PEQ: Minister Roberge accused of spreading misinformation

Immigration lawyers say the minister has made misleading claims about the end of the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ).

Quebec regions call for more immigrants

The Quebec Federation of Municipalities warns that many regions face demographic decline without increased immigration. Twelve of Quebec’s 17 regions currently have negative natural population growth. The FQM is calling for the reinstatement of the PEQ or at least grandfathering for those already in Quebec — proposals the government has rejected.

Seven Quebec athletes to watch at the 2026 Winter Olympics

Seven Quebec athletes are heading to Milano Cortina, ready to shine on ice and snow.

CLOSE TO HOME

McGill opens a lab to prepare for future pandemics

McGill University has launched a new intervention lab aimed at improving crisis response during future pandemics or climate‑related emergencies. Dr. Prativa Baral is co‑director of the initiative.

Black excellence celebrated at John Rennie High School

Staff at John Rennie High School in Pointe‑Claire organized a special gathering for Black History Month featuring speeches, poetry, and musical performances — all aimed at empowering Black students.

Laval Rocket hires Concordia goaltending coach

The Canadiens organization continues to prioritize development‑focused coaching hires.

Alouettes sign Terique Owens

Like his famous father Terrell Owens, Terique brings both talent and personality — a welcome addition to the team.

Two injured in bus‑tractor collision in Boucherville

Two people were injured Friday afternoon when an EXO bus collided with a tractor. No details on the severity of injuries have been released.

Knife incident at Jacques‑Rousseau High School in Longueuil

Police arrested a man who entered the school with a knife during a conflict involving another individual. Staff had already subdued the suspect before officers arrived. No one was injured.

Laval man accused of killing his two children appeared delusional, jury hears

A psychiatrist testified that Kamaljit Arora appeared delusional a year before the 2022 killings. The difficult trial continues.

PRACTICAL CORNER

Beaconsfield residents unhappy with STM bus network changes

The STM’s bus network redesign continues to spark reactions. In Beaconsfield, a petition is circulating to push the agency to reconsider changes that would route buses deeper into residential areas.

SPOTLIGHT

Hats off to the staff at John Rennie High School for creating a space of celebration and empowerment for Black students — a powerful example of educational leadership that truly makes a difference.

Have a great day Montreal, and see you tomorrow!