by Timothy Edward, Local Journalism Initiative reporter

Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante has asked Quebec Premier François Legault to appoint a homelessness minister to deal with the “worsening crisis” in the city. Plante made the request at a press conference on Tuesday where she also announced a $22.5-million investment in 42 projects to fight homelessness.

“This is a significant amount for the municipal level, but… it is essential that all stakeholders do more, especially those with financial and operational leverage. With a cabinet reshuffle approaching, I am therefore asking the Premier of Quebec to appoint a minister responsible for homelessness.”

Plante explained that while the city’s collaboration on this file with Quebec Social Services Minister Lionel Carmant has helped to launch “several projects,” the current homelessness situation in the city “goes beyond the issue of social services.”

“The crisis is worsening, and it is time for all levels of government to make the necessary efforts to help the most disadvantaged members of our society, and to make this a genuine social project.”