Montreal QC ☕ The morning chat
Good morning, Montreal.
We start with news that hits retail directly, as La Cordée, a Montreal institution, prepares to close its doors. There’s also a public safety story in Saint-Henri, a strike complicating trips to the airport, and good news for book lovers in the West Island. The election campaign, meanwhile, keeps intruding into our lives, with a PQ promise that’s getting people talking.
Main Story
La Cordée to close its doors
La Cordée, the well-known Montreal outdoor equipment retailer, is closing. The decision comes after several years of financial troubles.
It’s the end of an era for outdoor enthusiasts in the city, who know the store well for their camping, skiing, and hiking gear purchases.
Local
Engineer’s report warns of collapse risk at Canada Malting site
An engineer’s report obtained by La Presse warns that part of the Canada Malting site in Saint-Henri is at risk of imminent collapse. It’s a public safety hazard on a busy street.
The news is worrying for residents of the neighbourhood and anyone who frequents the area.
Airport taxi drivers strike for a second week
Taxi drivers serving Montreal’s airport are on strike again, during Friday’s rush hour. This is the second consecutive week of the action, which concerns fees imposed by Taxelco: $4 per airport pickup, plus weekly fees of $195, compared to monthly fees of $100 before.
Drivers say working at the airport now costs them between $2,300 and $2,500 a month.
Lyft now available in Montreal
Lyft, the ride-hailing service, is now active in Montreal and Quebec City, and is expanding across the province. Montrealers now have a new competitor to Uber and taxi apps.
Noteworthy
PQ promises to break with the monarchy
Parti Québécois leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon promises to table a law to abolish the monarchy in Quebec if elected. Asked about the constitutionality of such a move, he indicated his party would introduce a bill to that effect.
The PQ also wants to defend the office of the lieutenant-governor and cut the province’s ties with the Crown.
PQ wants to ban insulting police officers across Quebec
Paul St-Pierre Plamondon also announced his party wants to make it illegal to insult police officers across the province. He called Montreal’s regulation banning insults toward police and municipal employees a “starting point” for establishing new rules of civility.
The PQ also plans to hire 800 new police officers during its first mandate if it wins the October 5 election.
Two organizations challenge Montreal’s anti-insult regulation
Two Montreal legal rights organizations are asking the Quebec Superior Court to strike down the city’s new anti-insult regulation. They argue its restrictions on behaviour toward municipal employees, especially police, infringe on freedom of expression.
Hearing on electricity rates for data centres
A public hearing begins Thursday in Montreal on a Hydro-Québec proposal that could double the cost of energy for data centres. Tech giant Google is notably opposed to the measure.
Hydro-Québec is asking the Régie de l’énergie to approve a new rate for data centres over five megawatts, which would bring the average price of electricity to 13 cents per kilowatt-hour, about double what they currently pay.
The Régie must determine whether this new rate is fair and viable.
Practical Corner
Airport taxi strike: what to do?
If you’re planning to take a taxi to or from the airport this weekend, expect disruptions. Drivers are on strike during Friday’s rush hour. Consider checking other transport options, like shuttles or as one of the Montreal limo company owners said, avoid any surprises and book a limo, before you leave.
Lyft arrives in Montreal: a new option for your trips
With Lyft’s arrival, you have a new ride-sharing option in the city. The app is now active in Montreal and Quebec City, and it’s expanding across the province. If you already use Uber or taxi apps, it might be worth comparing prices.
Favourite
Babar Books celebrates 40 years of books and community
Independent bookstore Babar Books in Pointe-Claire is celebrating its 40th anniversary. Founded in 1986 by Maya Byers and Helen Gillespie, it has become a pillar of the community, welcoming generations of young readers. The store also plans to expand to offer more space for events and local illustrators. It’s a beautiful story of passion and passing the torch, reminding us of the importance of independent bookstores in our neighbourhoods.
To Wrap Up
We wish you a day that starts well, with a good coffee and maybe a visit to your neighbourhood bookstore. And if you’re flying, check your route before you leave. Have a good day, Montreal. ☕