Struggles in Rural Areas
In the political landscape of Quebec, the electoral season is heating up, with municipal elections approaching. As candidates gear up for their campaigns, they must accept that daily annoyances are part of the game.
Recently, a Montreal man found himself at the centre of a controversy. He was acquitted of theft during sexual relations by Judge Ann-Mary Beauchemin, who found that a reasonable doubt was raised. However, the incident did not go unnoticed, with a journalist later publishing a video on social media ridiculing the individual and accusing them of having a "wooden tongue." The individual apologized publicly to calm the situation.
Meanwhile, discipline is required to stick to the plan during an electoral campaign. Controlling the message is crucial to "win the day" and impose the subjects of the day. A journalist attempted to question a candidate about new parking vignettes during a ceremony, but the individual refused to answer, focusing instead on the ceremony and memories of Grand Antonio.
Grand Antonio, a beloved figure in Montreal, often took bus 18 - Beaubien and sat near Dunkin' Donuts in the park. On September 9, 2015, a commemorative plaque was inaugurated in Parc Beaubien for Grand Antonio. Elise Gravel, who signed a children's book in his name, attended the ceremony.
The focus of the upcoming municipal campaign should be on clear governance visions, not just on filling potholes or managing infrastructure. F.-W. Croteau, a former mayor and director of the Institute of Urban Resilience and Innovation, recently published a book titled "Our Cities on the Front Line." Croteau, who was previously the mayor of Blainville, Quebec, emphasizes that cities have evolved beyond their traditional role of providing basic services and have become "governments of proximity."
However, the political landscape is not without its controversies. Radio-Canada has suspended journalist Elisa Serret for alleged "anti-Semitic" remarks. A segment aired on RDI was criticized by Jewish associations and Ottawa politicians. The text is part of the Opinion section of Le Devoir, promoting diverse voices and ideas, and does not necessarily reflect the newspaper's values or position.
Amidst the unemployment crisis, there is panic among young specialized practical nurses due to unemployment, despite being told they were needed. The real question is how our cities will prepare for future challenges, not how many orange cones will be planted next spring. As the electoral season continues, these issues will undoubtedly take centre stage.