Quebec May Move Drug-Use Services from Montreal

The Quebec government is addressing growing concerns from Montreal residents regarding a housing project in the city’s southwest, which serves unhoused individuals struggling with addiction and mental health issues. Following months of support for the initiative, municipal officials are now requesting the relocation of day centre services at Maison Benoît Labre, located near an elementary school and featuring a supervised drug-use site. Local parents and residents have expressed their discontent, citing incidents of open drug use and aggressive behavior occurring in proximity to children. Chantal Rouleau, the minister responsible for social solidarity, confirmed that discussions are underway with the city to potentially relocate the day services. However, she emphasized the necessity of providing resources for vulnerable populations, indicating that any changes must still address their needs. The situation has drawn criticism from various quarters, including federal Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, who argues that the project exemplifies a leniency towards criminal behavior, suggesting that the mayor is endangering children by allowing them to coexist with drug users. In response to the backlash, the executive director of Maison Benoît Labre has advocated for enhancing resources at the centre rather than relocating its services. The director believes that additional support would alleviate the pressures faced by both the residents and the surrounding community, highlighting the complexity of addressing homelessness and addiction in urban settings.