“They’re disputed areas, but it doesn’t make them out of reach to Israeli citizens or the Jewish community,” Reverend Hazan Daniel Benlolo said.
Two rival groups faced off outside the Spanish and Portuguese Synagogue of Montreal on Tuesday evening.
On one side, people were waving Israeli flags. On the other side was a much more vocal group waving Palestinian flags and chanting “Judaism yes, Zionism no” and “From the river to the sea.”
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One group was voicing their opposition to the Snowdon synagogue hosting a trade fair called The Great Israeli Real Estate Event.
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The group, Independent Jewish Voices — Montreal, has an issue with the trade fair selling properties in three Israeli settlements in the West Bank whose legality is the subject of fierce dispute. Those settlements are Neve Daniel, Ma’ale Adumim and Efrat.
“It’s not a synagogue event at all, the synagogue is just hosting a real-estate tour that is advertising properties, including properties in internationally recognized illegal Israeli settlements,” said Sarah Boivin from Independent Jewish Voices.
“We really did not want to be there (today). We started an email and call campaign from concerned community members, really, asking the synagogue to take leadership and be a force for unity right now and just cancel the event. It was as simple as that. And the synagogue issued a statement to its members yesterday saying this was intimidation and that they weren’t going to cancel the event.
“So, unfortunately, we have had to ask Jews in Montreal and our allies to gather today to really show that it’s unacceptable for our religious and cultural spaces to be used for that kind of purpose.”
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Reverend Hazan Daniel Benlolo from the Spanish and Portuguese Synagogue contested the notion that these settlements are illegal.
“They’re disputed areas, but it doesn’t make them out of reach to Israeli citizens or the Jewish community,” Benlolo said. “It’s going to be disputed no matter what it is even if it’s not these areas. Tel Aviv is going to be disputed. Jerusalem is disputed. So what, does that mean that people have to stop doing everything and living?
“We’re going to agree to disagree … that they don’t want us to sell land and we’re in the position that we want to sell the land or the properties that are rightfully ours, rightfully (belong) to the Jewish people. It’s going to be a long-standing fight and it’s going to be disastrous for everybody at the end of the day because we have to come to a conclusion that the land of Israel is the land of our forefathers.”
Jason, who didn’t want to give his last name, stood on the side of the street with the group supporting the synagogue.
“They’re exercising their right to protest, but it’s really intimidation. Why are they allowed to intimidate us around our own institutions?”
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Simone, who also didn’t want to give a last name, criticized the police behaviour Monday night at the Federation CJA building.
“We couldn’t stand in front of our own building,” she said, adding she should be able to go to her neighbourhood synagogue without being warned about her safety.
On the other side of Lemieux St., along St-Kevin Ave., Nasser Sweileh held a banner protesting against “Israel’s apartheid.” He is half Jordanian, half Palestinian.
“We are not antisemitic. We’re anti-Zionist and anti-Israel. It proves that Zionism is not Judaism. How can we be anti-Jewish when Jewish people are organizing (the protest)?”
Boivin said it’s disappointing to hear the leader of a synagogue justifying this event.
“It’s a real shame for me to hear that kind of mentality coming from our community leaders,” Boivin said. “That to be Jewish we have to support the sale of land in illegal settlements or the massacre of 30,000 people (in Gaza) in a four-month period. We are really working as an organization to rebuild Jewish communities that are justice-oriented and that exist beyond Zionism because Zionism has never been equal to what Judaism is. Judaism is so much more, and I really think our community leaders are stirring division when they don’t give people the option to stand for human rights and still live as full Jews in the community.”
But Benlolo argues that to cancel the event is to give in to intimidation.
“I myself was even thinking at one point, ‘Why are we doing this right now?’” Benlolo said. “And we did have the intention to pull out … and then we changed our mind because if we cave in all the time, we’ll have to stop doing things we need to do just because we have some pressure from the Palestinians or from those that are extremists. If we cave in all the time, we might as well throw (in) the towel.
“So we decided, no this time we’re going to go ahead. I mean we’re doing so many things in the Jewish community that could seem antagonizing, but it’s not. It’s just living. It’s just going about our regular day.”
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MONTREAL – Two Quebec real estate brokers are facing fines and years-long suspensions for submitting bogus offers on homes to drive up prices during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Christine Girouard has been suspended for 14 years and her business partner, Jonathan Dauphinais-Fortin, has been suspended for nine years after Quebec’s authority of real estate brokerage found they used fake bids to get buyers to raise their offers.
Girouard is a well-known broker who previously starred on a Quebec reality show that follows top real estate agents in the province.
She is facing a fine of $50,000, while Dauphinais-Fortin has been fined $10,000.
The two brokers were suspended in May 2023 after La Presse published an article about their practices.
One buyer ended up paying $40,000 more than his initial offer in 2022 after Girouard and Dauphinais-Fortin concocted a second bid on the house he wanted to buy.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 11, 2024.
The Canadian Press. All rights reserved.
MONTREAL – The Quebec Professional Association of Real Estate Brokers says Montreal-area home sales rose 9.3 per cent in August compared with the same month last year, with levels slightly higher than the historical average for this time of year.
The association says home sales in the region totalled 2,991 for the month, up from 2,737 in August 2023.
The median price for all housing types was up year-over-year, led by a six per cent increase for the price of a plex at $763,000 last month.
The median price for a single-family home rose 5.2 per cent to $590,000 and the median price for a condominium rose 4.4 per cent to $407,100.
QPAREB market analysis director Charles Brant says the strength of the Montreal resale market contrasts with declines in many other Canadian cities struggling with higher levels of household debt, lower savings and diminishing purchasing power.
Active listings for August jumped 18 per cent compared with a year earlier to 17,200, while new listings rose 1.7 per cent to 4,840.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 6, 2024.
The Canadian Press. All rights reserved.
In the quest to find cities where renters can enjoy the best of all worlds, a recent study analyzed 24 metrics across three key categories—Housing & Economy, Quality of Life, and Community. The study ranked the 100 largest cities in Canada to determine which ones offer the most to their renters.
Here are the top 10 cities that emerged as the best for renters in 2024:
St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, stand out as the top city for renters in Canada for 2024. Known for its vibrant cultural scene, stunning natural beauty, and welcoming community, St. John’s offers an exceptional quality of life. The city boasts affordable housing, a robust economy, and low unemployment rates, making it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced and enriching living experience. Its rich history, picturesque harbour, and dynamic arts scene further enhance its appeal, ensuring that renters can enjoy both comfort and excitement in this charming coastal city.
Sherbrooke, Quebec, emerges as a leading city for renters in Canada for 2024, offering a blend of affordability and quality of life. Nestled in the heart of the Eastern Townships, Sherbrooke is known for its picturesque landscapes, vibrant cultural scene, and strong community spirit. The city provides affordable rental options, low living costs, and a thriving local economy, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both comfort and economic stability. With its rich history, numerous parks, and dynamic arts and education sectors, Sherbrooke presents an inviting environment for renters looking for a well-rounded lifestyle.
Québec City, the capital of Quebec, stands out as a premier destination for renters in Canada for 2024. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural heritage, this city offers an exceptional quality of life. Renters benefit from affordable housing, excellent public services, and a robust economy. The city’s charming streets, historic sites, and diverse culinary scene provide a unique living experience. With top-notch education institutions, numerous parks, and a strong sense of community, Québec City is an ideal choice for those seeking a dynamic and fulfilling lifestyle.
Trois-Rivières, nestled between Montreal and Quebec City, emerges as a top choice for renters in Canada. This historic city, known for its picturesque riverside views and rich cultural scene, offers an appealing blend of affordability and quality of life. Renters in Trois-Rivières enjoy reasonable housing costs, a low unemployment rate, and a vibrant community atmosphere. The city’s well-preserved historic sites, bustling arts community, and excellent educational institutions make it an attractive destination for those seeking a balanced and enriching lifestyle.
Saguenay, located in the stunning Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region of Quebec, is a prime destination for renters seeking affordable living amidst breathtaking natural beauty. Known for its picturesque fjords and vibrant cultural scene, Saguenay offers residents a high quality of life with lower housing costs compared to major urban centers. The city boasts a strong sense of community, excellent recreational opportunities, and a growing economy. For those looking to combine affordability with a rich cultural and natural environment, Saguenay stands out as an ideal choice.
Granby, nestled in the heart of Quebec’s Eastern Townships, offers renters a delightful blend of small-town charm and ample opportunities. Known for its beautiful parks, vibrant cultural scene, and family-friendly environment, Granby provides an exceptional quality of life. The city’s affordable housing market and strong sense of community make it an attractive option for those seeking a peaceful yet dynamic place to live. With its renowned zoo, bustling downtown, and numerous outdoor activities, Granby is a hidden gem that caters to a diverse range of lifestyles.
Fredericton, the capital city of New Brunswick, offers renters a harmonious blend of historical charm and modern amenities. Known for its vibrant arts scene, beautiful riverfront, and welcoming community, Fredericton provides an excellent quality of life. The city boasts affordable housing options, scenic parks, and a strong educational presence with institutions like the University of New Brunswick. Its rich cultural heritage, coupled with a thriving local economy, makes Fredericton an attractive destination for those seeking a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.
Saint John, New Brunswick’s largest city, is a coastal gem known for its stunning waterfront and rich heritage. Nestled on the Bay of Fundy, it offers renters an affordable cost of living with a unique blend of historic architecture and modern conveniences. The city’s vibrant uptown area is bustling with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, while its scenic parks and outdoor spaces provide ample opportunities for recreation. Saint John’s strong sense of community and economic growth make it an inviting place for those looking to enjoy both urban and natural beauty.
Saint-Hyacinthe, located in the Montérégie region of Quebec, is a vibrant city known for its strong agricultural roots and innovative spirit. Often referred to as the “Agricultural Technopolis,” it is home to numerous research centers and educational institutions. Renters in Saint-Hyacinthe benefit from a high quality of life with access to excellent local amenities, including parks, cultural events, and a thriving local food scene. The city’s affordable housing and close-knit community atmosphere make it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced and enriching lifestyle.
Lévis, located on the southern shore of the St. Lawrence River across from Quebec City, offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern conveniences. Known for its picturesque views and well-preserved heritage sites, Lévis is a city where history meets contemporary living. Residents enjoy a high quality of life with excellent public services, green spaces, and cultural activities. The city’s affordable housing options and strong sense of community make it a desirable place for renters looking for both tranquility and easy access to urban amenities.
This category looked at factors such as average rent, housing costs, rental availability, and unemployment rates. Québec stood out with 10 cities ranking at the top, demonstrating strong economic stability and affordable housing options, which are critical for renters looking for cost-effective living conditions.
Québec again led the pack in this category, with five cities in the top 10. Ontario followed closely with three cities. British Columbia excelled in walkability, with four cities achieving the highest walk scores, while Caledon topped the list for its extensive green spaces. These factors contribute significantly to the overall quality of life, making these cities attractive for renters.
Victoria, BC, emerged as the leader in this category due to its rich array of restaurants, museums, and educational institutions, offering a vibrant community life. St. John’s, NL, and Vancouver, BC, also ranked highly. Québec City, QC, and Lévis, QC, scored the highest in life satisfaction, reflecting a strong sense of community and well-being. Additionally, Saskatoon, SK, and Oshawa, ON, were noted for having residents with lower stress levels.
For a comprehensive view of the rankings and detailed interactive visuals, you can visit the full study by Point2Homes.
While no city can provide a perfect living experience for every renter, the cities highlighted in this study come remarkably close by excelling in key areas such as housing affordability, quality of life, and community engagement. These findings offer valuable insights for renters seeking the best places to live in Canada in 2024.
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