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LPD make a major marijuana, hashish, cocaine and mushroom bust

Martin C. Barry
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LPD make a major marijuana, hashish, cocaine and mushroom bust

The Laval Police report that a call to 9-1-1 earlier this month led to the seizure of a large haul of illegal narcotics, as well as the identification of a suspect considered a “person of interest.”

Around 12:30 am on March 1, according to the LPD, the police were informed by a 9-1-1 caller of a break-in the caller said they had just witnessed.

The called had seen a suspect enter a dwelling and then flee quickly.

Shortly after arriving on the scene, LPD officers noted several signs of forced entry on the building’s exterior, after which they went in to investigate.

While inside, they came upon evidence of various illegal drugs being stored, including 42 kilos of cannabis buds.

Not long after this, an individual believed to be connected was detained and interrogated by LPD investigators with the Laval Police Dept.’s organized crime unit.

Although charges weren’t immediately filed, they could eventually include possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking.

In addition to the cannabis, the LPD said they also seized 811 grams of hashish, an unspecified amounts of cocaine and psycho-active mushrooms.

With U.S. tariffs poised to kick in, Plastitel isn’t bothered by potential consequences

Martin C. Barry
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With U.S. tariffs poised to kick in, Plastitel isn’t bothered by potential consequences

Plastics firm and Laval économique get a combined $1.5 million in subsidies from Ottawa

With 25 per cent tariffs on exports from Canada into the U.S. poised to kick in earlier this week, nobody at Plastitel Products in Laval’s industrial park seemed very concerned about the fallout.

While Vimy Liberal MP Annie Koutrakis was there primarily for a tour as well as to confirm a $900,000 subsidized federal loan to the company, Plastitel management’s motto might well have been What me worry?

From the left, Plastitel general manager Sabrina Bolduc explains the functioning of a new piece of plastic thermoforming equipment to Vimy Liberal MP Annie Koutrakis and Laval executive-committee member Christine Poirier during a tour last week of the company’s Laval industrial park facilities. (Photo: Martin C. Barry, Laval News)

Sleeping well, in spite

The plastic thermoforming sub-contractor is the second medium-size locally-based manufacturer to declare to The Laval News in recent weeks that the tariffs don’t have them losing much shuteye at night.

This is partly because Plastitel has a solidly established client base within Quebec. However, they also had the foresight to prepare for a challenge like this by providing themselves with a buffer through expansion into the U.S. years ago.

“There’s no doubt we need to evaluate the situation,” Sabrina Bolduc, general manager of the company, said in an interview regarding the tariffs, while adding that Plastitel benefits from the fact it now has two factories on American soil.

Shift to U.S. not ruled out

While acknowledging that Plastitel’s management has been contemplating the possibility of transferring some operations and assets to the U.S. to compensate for the tariffs impact, she said, “It’s not what we would prefer. But we might not have a choice because we have to focus on development of new clients.”

She noted that some of Plastitel’s customers in Canada were already being served by the company’s subsidiaries in the U.S., just as customers in the U.S. were receiving products from Plastitel’s Canadian factories.

Plastitel’s Sabrina Bolduc explains the plastic thermoforming company’s operations to visiting officials last week. (Photo: Martin C. Barry, Laval News)

“We’re always good to find our way around,” she said. “There’s no doubt this is not the best of circumstances. But it’s not the last word by any measure.”

Complex plastic forming

Plastitel specializes in contract thermoforming of strategic plastics for the medical, transportation and water treatment industries, with expertise in complex moulding processes such as twin‍-‍sheet moulding.

The business is using the federal loan to acquire and install state-of-the-art digital production equipment, enabling Plastitel to improve the automation of its capacity while enhancing competitiveness.

“This financial support enables us to accelerate our adoption of new automated technologies that will transform our production,” said Bolduc.

“Thanks to this equipment, we are improving our competitiveness by reducing manufacturing times, optimizing the quality of our products and decreasing the physical effort required from our employees.”

Boosting competitiveness

She said the new equipment will also enable Plastitel to reduce its energy consumption and environmental footprint, aligning with the company’s vision for sustainable high‍-‍performance growth.

CED also announced a $600,000 non-repayable grant to Laval économique, the City of Laval’s official regional economic development agency.

City of Laval executive-committee member Christine Poirier. (Photo: Martin C. Barry, Laval News)
Vimy Liberal MP Annie Koutrakis. (Photo: Martin C. Barry, Laval News)

According to the federal ministry, the money will be helping Laval économique in its mission to offer advisory services and guidance to businesses in Laval in order to support their efforts to develop and diversify export markets.

Export and innovation

“This funding is that much more important in the current context, as it will be possible to help businesses that want to export, innovate and diversify their markets to pursue their growth,” CED says in its statement.

“Helping businesses in all regions across the country to soar is essential to build an innovative, strong, diverse economy,” said Koutrakis, who is Parliamentary Secretary the Liberal minister responsible for CED. “These investments will make it possible for Laval businesses to grow and be more competitive, as well as dynamize the region. I am delighted with this excellent news for the Laval economy.”

“I want to congratulate you on your efforts to automate your procedures,” said Christine Poirier, who in addition to being on the City of Laval’s executive-committee is the city councillor for Duvernay–Pont-Viau.

“I encourage you to continue on that direction and you can count on me and the support of Laval économique,” she added.

Nick Suzuki and Asista score a hat trick for Service Dog Program

Martin C. Barry
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Nick Suzuki and Asista score a hat trick for Service Dog Program

Habs team captain throws his support behind Laval-based mental health initiative

As many dedicated fans of the Montreal Canadiens know well, Nick Suzuki has long been recognized for his leadership – both on and off the ice.

With that in mind, the Habs captain, along with the Asista Foundation, proudly began a third year of collaboration recently as partners in the Hero Within All of Us campaign.

Located along the eastbound Autoroute 440 service road in Chomedey, the Laval-based foundation promotes its work by highlighting community heroes, while also raising crucial funds for Asista’s Facility Service Dog Program.

No, that’s not the chairman of the Asista Foundation board seated with Habs captain Nick Suzuki, even if he seems to be calling the meeting to order. (Photo: Courtesy of Asista Foundation)

A native of London, Ontario, Nick has been a proud ambassador of the Asista Foundation since 2022, actively supporting the foundation’s mission to provide life-changing service dogs to individuals and organizations in need.

Overcoming challenges

Through his professional experience, Nick has been able to witness the various hurdles faced by people impacted by mental health challenges. He feels confident that his contributions to Asista will raise awareness, promote the cause to the public and have a meaningful impact in the community.

The A Hero Within All of Us campaign highlights the influence and power everyone has to positively change lives through concrete actions and positive support.

Collaborative partners like Nick also support the current fundraising activities of the Asista Foundation and join their voices to raise public awareness of the importance of the foundation’s mission.

With Nick Suzuki leading the cause as a dedicated ambassador, the foundation is expanding its reach.

Helping to transform lives

Founded in 2011, the Asista Foundation has been transforming lives through a dual mission. It consists of giving a second chance to dogs emerging out of challenging situations, then training them as service animals for individuals facing challenges and organizations who support those with mental health needs.

With 104 service dogs currently in action, Asista serves communities across Quebec and Ontario, providing essential support thanks to the dedication of its volunteers, donors and partners. Continuing the success of previous years, the Asista Foundation is firmly grounded and remains committed to fulfilling its mission.

‘I’m incredibly proud to support such an important cause,’ says Habs team captain Nick Suzuki

With Nick Suzuki leading the cause as a dedicated ambassador, the foundation is expanding its reach and impact even further with a mobile version of its Facility Service Dog Program.

Nick’s valuable assistance

“We’re thrilled with how far we’ve come in just a few years,” says the Asista Foundation’s vice-president for public affairs John Agionicolaitis. “Nick’s unwavering support has been instrumental in helping us reach more people in need and bringing new life to the conversation about our work and mental health.”

According to the foundation, the second annual Nick Suzuki Heroes Golf Tournament, held in August last year, was a tremendous success, bringing together athletes, supporters and community leaders, while raising $120,500 for the Facility Service Dog Program.

The 2025 version of the tournament, scheduled for August 21, aims to set new fundraising records with all proceeds from the flagship event and the Hero Within All of Us campaign supporting the Facility Service Dog Program.

Making an impact

“I’m incredibly proud to support such an important cause,” says Suzuki. “Through various initiatives, like the Hero Within All of Us campaign and our annual golf tournament, I’m excited to continue making a meaningful impact in the lives of those who need it most.”

As the campaign grows, the Asista Foundation remains dedicated to rescuing more dogs, training them for service, and providing essential support to individuals and establishments supporting those who are struggling with mental health challenges.

The Asista Foundation invites individuals, businesses and communities to get involved by donating, volunteering or spreading the word. Every contribution – big or small – leads to a world where mental health resources and compassionate support are accessible to all.

Hundreds more rental housing units to be built in Laval and Terrebonne

Martin C. Barry
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Hundreds more rental housing units to be built in Laval and Terrebonne

Ottawa contributing $257 million through Apartment Construction Loan Program

The federal Liberal government announced last Monday that it is investing more than $257 million to pay for 781 rental units in Laval and Terrebonne on the North Shore through the Apartment Construction Loan Program (ACLP).

The announcement was made by Vimy Liberal MP Annie Koutrakis, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister Responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada Quebec Region.

The EXAL De la Concorde project in Laval will a 268-unit residential complex developed and built by Construgep, in partnership with Groupe MACH and Sarees Investments. The federal Liberal government is contributing $90 million to the project through low-interest loans.

LEED status sought

Situated on Léo-Lacombe Avenue in the heart of Laval, the complex is in a strategic location close to the De la Concorde intermodal transportation station and the Route verte network of cycling trails. The project is aiming for LEED certification, which will guarantee high energy performance and sustainable development standards.

With a design based on sustainability and well-being, EXAL De la Concorde will integrate a number of green initiatives, including electric car-sharing and electric bike-sharing services for residents, urban agriculture on the roof, a bike repair shop and electrical charging stations. In addition, investments have been announced for two other large-scale housing projects, Central Parc Laval and WE Terrebonne.

Central Parc project

Located at 3385 Le Carrefour Blvd. in Laval, Central Parc Laval will be a 960-unit project, with phases 4 and 5 funded by the federal government with a total of $132 million in low-interest loans. Central Parc will offer a complete living environment with numerous amenities, including a bike repair station, electric car charging, an outdoor play area, an outdoor pool and a gym.

“The government of Canada has committed to working with communities to meet the challenge of building more housing in Laval and across Quebec,” said Koutrakis. “Through the Apartment Construction Loan Program, our government is increasing the supply of new rental housing by investing over $257 million in the construction of 781 housing units. These units will benefit middle-class individuals and families and will have a positive effect on our economy.”

“These units will benefit middle-class individuals and families and will have a positive effect on our economy,” said Vimy MP Annie Koutrakis. (Photo: Martin C. Barry, Laval News)

A rapidly evolving market

“The development of Phases 4 and 5 of Central Parc Laval reflects our ambition to offer modern rental housing tailored to the realities of a rapidly evolving market,” said Steven Bastien, director of property management for the Central Parc Laval project.

He said two new phases will introduce 419 additional residential units and a state-of-the-art shared amenity space, designed to enhance well-being and foster a sense of community.

“In a market where rental demand remains high and vacancy rates are historically low, this investment is a concrete response to the needs of Laval’s residents,” added Bastien.

“With the support of the federal government and funding from CMHC, we have been able to accelerate the realization of this ambitious project, which will contribute to Laval’s urban development and continued growth by providing thoughtfully designed living spaces built for the future.”

10-year-long planning

The federal government’s National Housing Strategy (NHS) is a $115-plus billion plan, spanning over 10 years. Progress on programs and initiatives is updated quarterly on the Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada (HICC) website.

As of September 2024, the federal government had committed $57.57 billion to support the construction of more than 156,000 housing units and the repair of an additional 297,000.

The measures, according to the government, prioritize those in greatest need, including seniors, Indigenous people, people experiencing or at risk of homelessness, and women and children fleeing violence.

Financing hurdles, red tape among challenges facing newcomer businesses

Martin C. Barry
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0
Financing hurdles, red tape among challenges facing newcomer businesses

CFIB/Scotiabank report suggests more support would ‘empower’ immigrant entrepreneurs

As Canada navigates economic challenges – including heightened Canada-U.S. trade tensions this week – a new economic report commissioned by the Canadian Federation of Independent Business concludes it is essential for all entrepreneurs – including immigrants – to be set up for success.

Assisting newcomers

With that in mind, the report (From Challenges to Opportunities: The Newcomer Entrepreneurial Experience in Canada), looks at the leading hurdles facing newcomer entrepreneurs and their motivations for starting a business in Canada.

It also includes recommendations to policymakers and financial institutions on how to better support these important contributors to the country’s economy.

Sponsored by Scotiabank, the report notes that newcomer entrepreneurs – those who have been in Canada less than 10 years – own more than 7 per cent of enterprises in Canada, although they face unique challenges impacting their entrepreneurial growth and integration in the broader business community.

Entrepreneurial experience

“It takes a lot of courage and resilience to move to another country and open a business,” says Marvin Cruz, CFIB’s director of research and the report’s co-author. “Newcomer entrepreneurs play a crucial role in enhancing the Canadian business landscape and economy by bringing in diverse perspectives and skills.”

The top challenges facing newcomer entrepreneurs include securing financing (considering their limited credit history in Canada), navigating government regulations and compliance, building trust and networks, overcoming culture and communication differences, and accessing information and resources.

A range of backgrounds

Newcomer entrepreneurs choose to start a business in Canada for a wide range of reasons, including their previous entrepreneurial experience from their country of origin, access to market opportunities, the country’s strategic location, the pursuit of autonomy and financial success, and the appeal of a high quality of life and safety.

“As Canada navigates economic challenges, including Canada-U.S. trade tensions, strengthening entrepreneurship is more important than ever,” says Francesca Basta, CFIB’s research analyst, who was also a co-author of the report.

“To enhance Canada’s productivity and global competitiveness, it’s essential that all entrepreneurs, including newcomers, are set up for success,” she continues. “That’s why it’s important for policymakers and financial institutions to provide better and ongoing support to Canada’s newcomers in their entrepreneurial journeys.”

Role of policymakers

CFIB recommends that policymakers work to increase awareness of existing government grants and support programs, create an easily accessible and centralized platform to host critical information on tax rules, labour laws, and licensing requirements, and simplify regulatory compliance while enhancing customer service.

CFIB also recommends expanding immigration options for foreign entrepreneurs in Canada and to continue to support and promote newcomer organizations and settlement agencies that have proven to be effective.

As well, it is suggested that financial institutions should continue to promote mentorship programs and financial literacy resources, remove barriers to improve access to capital for newcomer entrepreneurs and simplify the banking setup process.

Immigrant entrepreneurs

According to the report, immigrants are more likely to be entrepreneurs than individuals born in Canada. While immigrants make up 23 per cent of the population, they own 28 per cent of Canadian enterprises. Additionally, immigrant owned businesses have similar longevity to those owned by Canadian-born entrepreneurs, with 80 per cent lasting two years and 58 per cent lasting seven years.

“As the country seeks to enhance its global competitiveness, the role of newcomer entrepreneurs – those who have immigrated to Canada within the past 10 years and are starting, managing, or expanding a business – has become increasingly important,” the report states.

Perspectives and innovation

“They bring diverse perspectives and innovative ideas which enrich and contribute to the vibrancy of Canada’s business landscape. For many, entrepreneurship is a conscious and empowering choice, allowing them to not only forge their own path to success in Canada, but to create jobs and contribute to local economies.”

“Considering most businesses in Canada are small, supporting newcomer entrepreneurs is crucial for driving growth and innovation in this sector,” the report maintains. “As Canada’s productivity remains stagnant, and business openings are struggling to outpace closures, immigrant entrepreneurs play an essential and needed role in strengthening the Canadian business landscape.”

Favourable survival rates

In addition to underlining their resilience, the report says immigrant entrepreneurs play an important role leveraging their international background and knowledge to expand Canadian trade opportunities. It found that the survival rates of immigrant-owned businesses are comparable to those of businesses owned by Canadian-born entrepreneurs.

After two years, on average, 78 per cent of businesses owned by immigrants remained in operation, compared to 80 per cent of those owned by Canadian-born entrepreneurs. After seven years, the survival rate was 56 per cent for immigrant-owned businesses, closely mirroring the 57 per cent for Canadian-born entrepreneurs.

The report notes that newcomer entrepreneurs bring immense potential to Canada’s economy, but face unique barriers that can impact their growth and integration. It concludes that strengthening support systems for newcomer entrepreneurs “would empower them to thrive, unlocking their full potential and enriching Canada’s business landscape.”

Boyer in Washington with Canada/U.S. cities delegation

Martin C. Barry
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Boyer in Washington with Canada/U.S. cities delegation

The City of Laval announced earlier this week that Mayor Stéphane Boyer will be in Washington D.C. from March 5-7 as Laval’s official representative in a delegation in the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative.

In addition to promoting the protection of the Great Lakes and the Saint Lawrence River, the alliance (made up of 244 Canadian and U.S. cities) shares the common purpose of defending its members against President Donald Trump’s 25 per cent tariffs scheme.

In a statement issued by Laval City Hall on Monday, the city says Laval will be representing the interests of its businesses and employees.

During the gathering in the U.S. capital, Mayor Boyer will be meeting elected congressional officials, leaders of economic interest groups and representatives of the Trump administration. “This mission is taking place in a preoccupying economic context,” says the statement.

“Uncertainty is hanging over, while tariff measures are foreseen by the United States, directly threatening cross-border commercial trade.

“A 25 per cent hike on Canadian goods imported into the United States could have grave consequences for the regional economy, putting in peril jobs and the ability of local businesses to compete.”

“The question of tariffs is worrying,” says Mayor Boyer. “Hundreds of jobs are at risk in Laval. We will therefore be collaborating in initiatives aimed at preserving commercial trade from one side of the border to the other.

“We will also be taking advantage of this mission to strengthen the economic links between Laval and other Canadian cities from the Great Lakes region,” he added.

Fabre MNA honours citizens with National Assembly Medal

Laval News Contributor
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Fabre MNA honours citizens with National Assembly Medal

As part of their role at the National Assembly, elected members of The National Assembly, have the opportunity to award honourary medals to recognize individuals whose exceptional dedication and contributions help improve our society.

These distinctions celebrate those who, through their commitment, have had a profound and lasting impact on their communities.

Recently, Alice Abou-Khalil, MNA for Fabre, had the honour of recognizing three outstanding individuals who have dedicated themselves to building a more inclusive, supportive, and engaged society.

Whether through social involvement, community service, or the promotion of values that strengthen our collective well-being, each of these recipients has made an undeniable difference in the lives of many.

Bishop Paul-Marwan Tabet

A key figure in the Maronite community in Canada, Bishop Paul-Marwan Tabet, Eparchial Bishop of the Maronite Catholics, was honoured for his outstanding commitment to education and fostering unity and solidarity.

Through his compassionate leadership, he has worked to build bridges between generations and cultures, creating a strong sense of belonging within the community. André Langevin – Founder of Karaté Autisme Through his remarkable journey, André Langevin has shown how passion and resilience can change lives.

A career police officer and black belt in Kyokushin karate, he founded Karaté Autisme after witnessing the transformative impact of karate on his son Philippe, who was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder

Since 2008, he has provided thousands of young people with the opportunity to thrive through adapted, inclusive, and supportive instruction. His dedication, alongside a team of committed instructors, has made Karaté Autisme a leading initiative in promoting inclusion through sports.

Aline Dib First elected in 2013, Aline Dib, City Councillor for the Saint-Martin district in Laval, embodies transparency, integrity, and a deep connection with citizens.

She works tirelessly to improve the quality of life for Laval residents by supporting families, assisting community organizations, and leading environmental projects.

Actively involved in social development and immigration, she is committed to strengthening solidarity and ensuring an inclusive and dynamic living environment for the people of Laval.

Her unwavering commitment makes her a true role model in municipal politics, and her dedication has earned her the distinction of being the first Laval City Councillor to receive a National Assembly Medal in recognition of her exceptional service to her community.

Through these distinctions, MNA Alice Abou-Khalil highlights the vital role of community engagement and honours those whose actions embody the values of inclusion, solidarity, and kindness.

Each of these individuals has demonstrated remarkable leadership and generosity, making Quebec a stronger, more compassionate, and more united place.

Laval News Volume 33-05

Laval News Staff
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Laval News Volume 33-05

The current issue of the Laval News, volume 33-05, published on March 5th, 2025.
Covering Laval local news, politics, and sports.
(Click on the image to read the paper.)

Man dies after being crushed by truck at Laval recycling plant

Martin C. Barry
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Man dies after being crushed by truck at Laval recycling plant

A 58-year-old man was declared dead on Sunday morning at a recycling facility in Laval’s Saint-François district after he was crushed by a truck.

The Laval Police responded to the scene at AIM Recycling around 6 am Sunday.

As the police could find no evidence of a criminal nature, they immediately transferred the case to the Commission des normes, de l’équité, de la santé et de la sécurité du travail (CNESST), Quebec’s worker health and safety agency.

Two CNESST investigators, assisted by officers with the Laval Police, were reported to have visited the site and were expected to be there to interview witnesses over the coming days.

Criminal responsibility in fatal Sainte-Rose bus crash to be decided in April

Martin C. Barry
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0
Criminal responsibility in fatal Sainte-Rose bus crash to be decided in April
It is alleged that former STL driver Pierre Ny St-Amand was behind the wheel of the bus that rammed the Garderie éducative de Sainte-Rose. (Photo: Facebook)

A Quebec Superior Court judge will be deciding in early April whether former Société de transport de Laval driver Pierre Ny-St-Amand was mentally fit when he drove a bus into the entrance of a Sainte-Rose children’s daycare in early February 2023, killing two children and injuring six others.

A crown prosecutor and a defence lawyer said last week that they will be presenting a joint statement of facts at the next hearing.

According to statements made by the crown during preliminary hearings, two psychiatrists who examined Ny-St-Amand have concluded he should not be held criminally responsible because he has a mental disorder.

In addition to a recounting of the facts, the hearing on April 7 is also expected to include testimony from both psychiatrists.

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