The Big Five Podcast Montreal Public Health thinks more booze in more places is a bad idea. Plus: The South Shore restaurant that charges for water.
Jul 10, 2025
Neil Drabkin, a former federal prosecutor and political commentator, joins the discussion with Montreal journalist Sue Smith. They delve into Montreal Public Health's concerns over a pilot project allowing late alcohol sales in convenience stores, highlighting potential health risks. The duo also tackles the backlash against Pizzeria Sofia in Brossard for charging customers for tap water, raising questions about value and consumer practices. Along the way, they touch on Quebec's immigration policies and their implications for family reunification.
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Health Risks of Extended Alcohol Sales
- Montreal's public health warns longer alcohol sales and more locations lead to increased alcohol-related harms.
- They highlight risks of verifying drinking age and worsening inequalities in disadvantaged areas.
Critique of Expanded Alcohol Sales
- The CAQ's pilot project to expand alcohol sales is criticized as irresponsible and dangerous by experts.
- Delivery via Uber Eats raises concerns about age verification and potential underage access.
Immigration Limits and Politics
- Quebec's CAQ government is limiting family reunification immigration, worsening already long wait times.
- This policy reflects political motives and challenges Quebec's unique immigration authority.