Montreal QC ☕ The morning chat
Good morning, Montreal.
This Saturday, we’re thinking about marathon runners, but also about those who’ll have to navigate major closures. The new PQ government is taking shape, while news from the region and beyond catches our attention. Here’s a practical and human roundup.
Lead Story
Montreal Marathon transforms travel this weekend
The 34th edition of the Beneva Montreal Marathon runs from October 9 to 11, with 35,000 participants. Road closures are major: Highway 25 and the Louis-Hippolyte-La Fontaine Tunnel are closed toward the South Shore from October 9 to 13, with detours via the Champlain Bridge and then the Jacques-Cartier Bridge starting October 11 at 11 p.m.
For drivers and transit users, the whole area is to be avoided. Organizers recommend planning trips in advance, especially for those heading to or from the South Shore during the weekend.
Close to Home
Two teens arrested after armed robbery at Place Versailles
Two teenagers, including a 14-year-old, face charges after crashing a vehicle while fleeing an armed robbery at a jewelry store in Place Versailles, according to Montreal police. The incident happened Friday, and both youths were arrested.
Nooran Rezayi’s family to learn names of officers involved
Quebec Superior Court has approved an agreement that will allow more information to be shared with the family of Nooran Rezayi, the teenager shot by police, as well as a few others, under confidentiality conditions. This decision marks a step in a case that has deeply moved the community.
To Remember
PQ prepares to govern in minority
Premier-designate Paul St-Pierre Plamondon has asked his troops to stay mobilized as the Parti Québécois prepares to form a minority government. PQ MNAs will be sworn in on October 15, and the cabinet will be presented on October 21. At a post-election meeting in Drummondville, he reiterated his “collaborative stance,” while acknowledging his hold on power will depend on acceptance by opposition parties.
CAQ expels its Culture Minister
Mathieu Lacombe has been expelled from the Coalition avenir Québec caucus after attending a PQ victory rally on election night. Martine Biron replaces him as Culture Minister, with only a few weeks left in the CAQ government.
CAQ law limiting strike rights declared inoperative
The Administrative Labour Tribunal has ruled: articles of Bill 14 infringe on freedom of association. The decision, handed down Friday, could have repercussions on public-sector negotiations.
Quebec economy loses 49,000 jobs in September
According to Statistics Canada, employment fell by 49,000 in Quebec in September, and by 68,000 across Canada. Cumulative losses since January reach 130,000 in Quebec. Unemployment advocacy groups worry about the scale of the phenomenon, which particularly affects the public sector.
Google and environmental group to question Hydro-Québec on data centres
As part of a public hearing on proposed rate hikes for data centres, Google and an environmental group will be able to question Hydro-Québec experts. The Régie de l’énergie oversees these exchanges, as opposition to these facilities grows across the country.
Practical Corner
Desjardins credit cards: some operations unavailable from October 12 to 20
Desjardins is modernizing its credit card management system. During this period, some operations will be temporarily unavailable. If you’re planning significant transactions, check the details with the institution to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Flu vaccination recommended as soon as possible
Specialists recommend getting the flu shot as soon as the vaccine is available, as the season is expected to start early. The vaccine is free for the general population in Quebec. It takes about two weeks for protection to become effective. People aged 65 and over, pregnant women, and children are especially encouraged to get vaccinated.
Coup de Coeur
The arrival of twelve dogs rescued from the dog meat industry in South Korea, near Montreal, reminds us that solidarity can cross oceans. As South Korea prepares to ban this industry in February 2027, these animals begin a new life, and local organizations support their recovery. Great news to start the weekend.
In Closing
We wish you an active Saturday, whether you’re running, navigating closures, or simply enjoying the city. Take time to plan your trips, and savour the small victories, like those dogs finally finding a home. See you tomorrow, with a hot coffee. ☕