Articles from Lapresse actualité

A serious road accident in Cowansville, Quebec, involves three vehicles and results in one fatality and several injuries. The accident occurred during Quebec's construction holidays, a period known for increased road fatalities. A collision reconstruction expert is investigating, with speed potentially being a contributing factor. The construction holidays in Quebec frequently see higher traffic incidents, with a notable rise in fatalities this year compared to last.

Residents near the site of a planned multi-level parking structure at the Maisonneuve-Rosemont hospital in Montreal are concerned about the impact on the local environment and community. Issues cited include the loss of green space, increased pollution, and noise. A community mobilization is in place to protest the decision, questioning the necessity of the parking lot amidst proposed public transportation improvements. Despite the opposition, the healthcare authorities defend their choice citing thorough impact assessments.

The village of Saint-Simon-les-Mines, Quebec, has been cited by the Ministry of the Environment for unauthorized construction work in the Cumberland Natural Reserve. The municipality extended the Cumberland Road into the protected area without the proper permits, violating conservation laws. The Ministry has ordered the town to submit a corrective plan by July 31st or face fines. This is not the first environmental infraction by the village, which had previously been cited for environmental damages.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney met with Inuit leaders to discuss the controversial new federal law regarding major projects, which some believe bypasses environmental protections. The law, known as C-5, promises to respect treaty rights and aims to speed up national interest projects. Despite assurances, some Indigenous leaders, including Natan Obed of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, expressed concerns about insufficient consultation during the law's formation. This meeting follows criticism of the government's reconciliatory approach and ongoing legal actions from some Indigenous groups.

The affordable housing shortage is worsening in the Greater Montreal area despite a slight increase in the vacancy rate, according to the Montreal Metropolitan Community (CMM). The vacancy rate for affordable housing has critically dropped to 0.4%, making it difficult for low and middle-income families to find affordable housing. The rent for vacant units has risen significantly, leading to a cost 60% higher than that paid by current tenants. The CMM suggests increasing non-market housing and improving proximity to public transport for new developments.

The government of Québec has allocated $275 million to advance the third highway link project between Québec City and Lévis. The total cost of the project could reach nearly $10 billion, with current estimates ranging between $5.3 billion and $9.3 billion, not including environmental studies and land acquisitions. The project involves constructing a highway that transitions from a trench in Lévis to a bridge, and finally a tunnel through Québec City. The government aims to make this project irreversible, warning of significant penalties if a future government cancels it.

Indigenous leaders in Ontario are legally challenging federal and provincial legislation, specifically Bill C-5 and Bill 5, which aim to expedite infrastructure projects. They argue that these laws could harm the environment and infringe on Indigenous land and water rights. Chief June Black of the Apitipi Anicinapek Nation emphasizes the sacred duty to protect their lands, fearing that these laws could facilitate harmful mining operations. The legal challenge is launched before a meeting with Prime Minister Mark Carney, who asserts that the law allows for initial Indigenous consultations.

The Quebec government is proposing regulatory changes to allow co-living arrangements in low-income housing (HLM), which is currently prohibited. This move aims to make such housing more accessible and reduce under-occupied homes. The proposal seeks to match household compositions with available housing types more effectively and is expected to help prevent homelessness. This change has been driven by Quebec solidaire, along with current restrictions that have presented challenges, such as not allowing individuals to move in with family in HLMs.

The city of Longueuil has introduced new regulations for construction sites to reduce nuisances, forbidding work between 7 PM and 7 AM and requiring the removal of equipment at the end of each day. Additionally, devices exceeding a noise level of 53 dB will be prohibited. Other measures include rules for outdoor fires, which will be banned during specific environmental conditions starting November 1st. These regulations follow a public consultation process conducted by Longueuil's Office of Public Participation.

Nine First Nations in Ontario are challenging federal and provincial laws in court related to Bill C-5, which allows for expedited infrastructure project approvals by bypassing existing regulations. The legal contest is based on the assertion that these projects infringe on Indigenous rights. The leaders of these communities argue they are not against development, but stress the importance of conducting projects thoughtfully and carefully. Bill C-5 is intended to help Canadian development, especially in natural resources, proceed faster in response to tariffs imposed by the U.S.

In Montreal, Mayor Valérie Plante has pledged to promptly upgrade the city's outdated sewage systems following severe flooding caused by heavy rains. Despite recognizing the urgent need for infrastructure improvements, she acknowledges the challenge due to the city's aging networks. The city plans to implement 'sponge streets' and retention areas to manage water more effectively, while urging residents to take protective measures in the meantime. Efforts are ongoing to better inform citizens about flood-prone areas and improve support from provincial indemnities.

The luxury condo project Lago in Mont-Tremblant, stalled by legal battles and excessive construction costs, has filed for creditor protection. The project faced major financial setbacks after modifications due to disputes with neighbors over land rights led to additional construction expenses. The developer, unable to secure further funding, is considering selling the project. Delays and unmet promises have frustrated buyers, and ongoing issues continue to hinder progress.