Montreal Mayor Soraya Martinez-Ferrada is considering legal action against Quebec following the discovery of a baby living with their mother in a tent on Notre-Dame Street. The baby, aged just over one year, was found by police last Friday and taken into the care of Quebec youth services while the mother was placed under social services. Authorities confirmed that the baby’s well-being is secure and is currently with a family member.
Martinez-Ferrada emphasized the need for more action from the Quebec government to address homelessness in Montreal. She expressed frustration over limited funding hindering their efforts and mentioned the possibility of resorting to legal measures to secure necessary support.
The encampments on Notre Dame street are situated on Quebec-owned land, with court rulings preventing the city from dismantling the tents. Quebec Premier and Coalition Avenir Québec Leader Christine Fréchette acknowledged the distressing situation and called for collaborative efforts among all levels of government to combat homelessness. She plans to meet with Martinez-Ferrada soon.
In response to the crisis, Quebec Liberal Party Leader Charles Milliard stressed shared responsibility among elected officials and emphasized the importance of addressing underlying causes of homelessness. Ruba Ghazal from Québec Solidaire called for increased investment and political commitment to tackle homelessness effectively. Parti Québécois Leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon criticized the situation, advocating for improved social support for vulnerable individuals in the province.
Conservative Party of Quebec leader Éric Duhaime expressed sympathy for those living in encampments but urged for their prompt dismantlement. All five party leaders have agreed to participate in a homelessness forum scheduled for 2027.
