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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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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.

Longueuil man jailed 30 months for bombing attempt in Laval

Martin C. Barry
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0
Longueuil man jailed 30 months for bombing attempt in Laval

A 26-year-old man from Longueuil on Montreal’s South Shore has been sentenced to 30 months in prison after being found guilty of a range of criminal charges, including bomb-making, related to a dispute with his former girlfriend and her new partner.

Henri Chevalier Hogue pleaded guilty at the Palais de Justice de Laval in January to the charges, which included possession of explosives and criminal harassment.

In November 2022, Hogue’s ex-girlfriend, identified as Rachel, found a note on the windshield of a car in Pont-Viau belonging to her new boyfriend’s father, wishing them season’s greetings. A little earlier, according to testimony, an unidentified man had been seen placing an object under the car.

A few days later, a man was seen again, but this time placed an object under a car belonging to the new boyfriend, who was identified in court as Jacob, with a note left on the windshield saying “good day” in French.

It was later determined that the bomb had mistakenly been left under the wrong car in the first place, and that the second attempt was made to put it under Jacob’s car.

When the couple became aware of the situation, they called 9-1-1, which sent the Sûreté du Québec bomb squad. The squad proceeded in turn to evacuate part of the neighbourhood.

It was later determined that the object placed under the car was indeed a bomb containing an explosive charge and a load of steel screws capable of inflicting serious injuries and damage.

Following a raid at Hogue’s home, the police found a range of materials for bomb-making, including batteries, explosive powder, electric insulation tape and electric wiring. They were unable to determine exactly how he learned how to make a functioning bomb.

Hogue never admitted to having placed the bomb. The investigators reported that he put up a strong resistance to being fingerprinted, including trying to remove his own fingerprints from his fingers. He could have received a five-year prison sentence, but the court showed leniency, citing mitigating factors.

Laval man posing as DJ charged with online luring

Steve Martin Dubuc. (Photo: Courtesy of LPD)

The Laval Police say they have arrested a man suspected of luring children online and investigators believe there may be more victims.

Steve Martin Dubuc, 58, was arraigned on the charge at the Palais de Justice de Laval. Police say the charges stem from actions he allegedly committed between November 2024 and February 2025.

“Using a Facebook profile in the name of Stefano Tremblay and identifying himself as a DJ working at a popular radio station in the Montreal area, the suspect allegedly contacted minors via the Messenger platform,” the LPD said in a communiqué.

Anyone who believes they have additional information is asked to contact the LPD’s crime hotline at 450-662-4636 or call 911. The file is RPY-241124-015.

Recent LFD fire calls

The fire on Cléroux Blvd. (Photo: Courtesy APL)

February 12 | 22:35 // Building fire on Trépanier St. in the heart of Chomedey. Residential structure. Flames apparent on rear balcony of 2nd storey and propagation onto exterior wall of the building, as well as to part of the roof.

February 4 | 00:56 // Building fire on 4th St. in city’s Laval-des-Rapides sector. Multi-unit residential building. Flames apparent in the garage. Code was 10-09, meaning full assistance required. According to the Laval Fire Dept., this dossier was forwarded onto fire investigators for further inquiry.

Jan 28 | LFD calls in a fire in progress. Building fire on Cléroux Blvd. in the Sainte-Dorothée sector. Residential building. Smoke apparent. Code was 10-07, meaning intervention necessary.

Keep those snowed-over hydrants clear

The Laval Fire Dept. has issued a reminder to all City of Laval property owners who have fire hydrants nearby that they have a duty to keep them clear of now in case a fire breaks out and firefighters need access.

“The storms these last few days have left us with a LARGE white carpet but also a few challenges,” the LFD posted on their X social media feed. “We remind you to carefully clear your emergency exits and to not bury the fire hydrants under mountains of snow,” they added.

Mille-Îles MNA Dufour calls out CAQ for opposing petition’s rail transport request

Martin C. Barry
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0
Mille-Îles MNA Dufour calls out CAQ for opposing petition’s rail transport request
Mille-Îles Liberal MNA Virginie Dufour.

Grondin ‘preferred to align herself’ with her party’s positions, PLQ MNA said

Mille-Îles Liberal MNA Virginie Dufour is taking issue with her National Assembly CAQ colleague from Argenteuil Agnès Grondin’s failure to support a petition submitted by some of Dufour’s constituents who are asking the government to support development of rail transport.

“Last week in the National Assembly, I had the opportunity to participate in a work session whose purpose was to persuade elected officials with the CAQ to examine a petition, begun by a citizen of my riding, which requested that the government consider a strategy for the development of railway corridors for the transportation of goods and person,” said Dufour, who is the Liberal Party of Quebec’s official spokesperson on environment and climate change issues.

More rail transport

Since it is estimated that the distance travelled by a corresponding quantity of merchandise by train emits 92 per cent less greenhouse gas on average into the atmosphere, compared to road transport, the petitioners are proposing that a $1.7 billion surplus accumulated in the government’s electrification and climate change fund should be used to plan a transition towards rail transport.

During the working session, according to Dufour, CAQ MNA Grondin, along with her colleagues, opposed the petitioners’ request.

Ditto MRC d’Argenteuil

Dufour noted that in the last few weeks, the MRC d’Argenteuil adopted a resolution making a suggestion very similar to the one in the petition submitted by her constituents.

“Mme Grondin’s opposition is somewhat surprising since she herself, for more than 10 years, was a consultant for environment at the MRC d’Argenteuil,” Dufour said. “Apparently, the CAQ’s MNA preferred to align herself with the positions taken by her party, rather than defend her citizens, the mayors in her riding and maybe also her personal convictions,” she added.

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