The Big Five Podcast The Soraya Martinez Ferrada era begins in Montreal. Plus: No bus or Metro - but the REM’s free!
Nov 14, 2025
Jonathan Kalles, Vice President at McMillan Vantage and former advisor to Justin Trudeau, joins Alain Vaillancourt, former Montreal city councillor, for a lively discussion. They dive into Soraya Martinez Ferrada's inaugural challenges as Montreal's mayor, tackling issues like homelessness and transit. The panel also analyzes the recent STM strike and the promising yet shaky launch of the REM transit system. Additionally, they address Quebec's controversial decision to threaten social assistance cuts for asylum seekers, exploring the political implications.
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Homelessness Is Day-One Priority
- Homelessness is Soraya Martinez-Ferrada's immediate crisis and priority.
- She must collaborate with Quebec to secure shelters and funding quickly.
Relationship-Building Is The Real Mandate
- Resetting intergovernmental relationships is the mayor's core job.
- Success depends on her ability to build positive ties with Quebec and federal actors.
Strike Exposed Systemic Failures
- The STM strike reflects collective failure across governments, unions, and tribunals.
- A complete weekend shutdown is unacceptable for an essential service and needs policy review.