A prominent Quebec real estate broker, Simon Laberge, is facing a lawsuit from the office of Mayor Bruno Marchand over inflammatory remarks made in a recent social media video. The video, which surfaced on platforms like Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram, includes Laberge urging residents to contact his office if they oppose the city’s tramway project.
Remarks on the Tramway Project
In the 45-second video, Laberge labels the tramway project as “unnecessary” and impulsively claims that its implementation could lead to the cutting of up to 20,000 trees. This assertion contradicts data from municipal teams, which estimates the number of trees to be cut at around 1,500.
A Call to Action
- Laberge’s video prompted a swift backlash.
- He invites those “tired” of paying taxes towards the tramway to reach out to him.
City’s Response
The comments have raised serious concerns within Mayor Marchand’s office, which characterized Laberge’s remarks as “hateful, defamatory, and aggressive.” They see the need to address these remarks seriously by filing a formal complaint with Laberge’s agency, Via Capitale.
Addressing Accountability
The mayor’s office emphasizes that public figures like Laberge carry a responsibility for their statements. A spokesperson noted, “These comments are shared with impunity. When it comes to defamatory remarks, accountability is crucial.”
Online Violence and Professional Standards
This incident underscores a broader trend of rising violent and hateful speech online, which Mayor Marchand has publicly condemned in the past. The city seeks to maintain a respectful and democratic debate climate, especially concerning political discourse.
Industry Response
- The Association of Professional Real Estate Brokers of Quebec (APCIQ) reaffirmed that brokers must uphold professionalism in public communications.
- Via Capitale publicly distanced itself from Laberge’s comments, confirming that the views expressed are his own.
Laberge’s Prior Transgressions
Simon Laberge has a history of disciplinary action concerning his conduct. In 2018, he was fined $13,000 for violating various ethical regulations connected to real estate practices. He is scheduled to confront further allegations in April regarding illegal acts and the use of a nominee.
Public Reactions
The video, which drew significant attention online, has since been removed from Laberge’s professional pages after widespread calls for responsibility. However, it remains accessible through shares on other platforms.
This situation reflects ongoing challenges in the interaction between social media discourse and professional accountability in real estate, raising critical questions about the responsibilities of public figures in expressing their opinions.
