Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

Innovation, Science, Economic Development Canada (ISED) and the Canada Economic
Development for Quebec Regions (CEDQ) held a virtual consultation with English-speaking
communities in Quebec on October 8, delving deep into the realities and challenges facing
these communities in their pursuit of economic stability and growth. The discussion brought to
light the enduring struggles of English-speaking Quebecers—struggles that reveal a divide
between these communities and the broader Quebec socio-economic landscape.

The focus of the consultation was the social economy—a model that, while thriving in
francophone regions, remains underutilized among English-speaking communities. Hoffman
Wolff, representing CNET and the Regional Development Network, spoke candidly about the
need for English-speaking Quebecers to see the social economy as not only viable but as an
empowering alternative that could redefine local economies. Wolff described a dynamic model
where community-run businesses prioritize not just profit but the well-being of people and the
environment, a concept that, if embraced, could shift the economic fortunes of English-speaking
communities.

However, as the consultation unfolded, it became clear that many English-speaking
communities face significant barriers that go beyond economic opportunity. Participants
expressed concern over the persistent youth unemployment rates, pointing out that despite
bilingual education, English-speaking youth still struggle to find meaningful employment. The
issue isn’t merely one of job availability but one of identity and belonging—how can these
communities, with their distinct linguistic and cultural heritage, find a foothold in an economy
that often feels inaccessible?

The conversation turned to the urgent matter of affordable housing. Many English-speaking
Quebecers, particularly those in rural regions, face challenges in accessing suitable housing
options. The scarcity of resources, combined with rising costs, has left many struggling to find
stable, affordable places to live. The problem is compounded for seniors and those needing
home care services—while services exist, they are often inaccessible due to language barriers.
Without bilingual services, the elderly and vulnerable feel increasingly isolated, cut off from the
support they need.

As these pressing issues were laid bare, participants emphasized the need for targeted actions.
There was a call for stronger support for community leaders who, with limited resources and
mounting challenges, carry the burden of sustaining these communities. This was not just about
funding but about capacity-building—creating conditions where leaders could thrive, innovate,
and inspire without facing burnout. The idea of pooling resources and forming regional
partnerships was discussed as a way to build resilience, yet the reality remained that without a
significant shift in policy and funding, the gaps would persist.​

The session left participants and organizers alike with the understanding that addressing the
needs of English-speaking communities in Quebec demands a deeper, more inclusive
commitment. It is not enough to acknowledge the struggles; the work lies in transforming those
acknowledgments into action—building systems that not only meet basic needs but that respect
and uplift the unique identity of these communities.

As the dialogue continues, there is hope, but there is also the recognition that true change will
require sustained effort, collaboration, and a commitment to bridging the linguistic and cultural
divide that has long defined Quebec’s economic landscape.

Photo: The virtual consultation by ISED and CEDQ revealed the urgent need for targeted
support and inclusive policies to address youth unemployment, housing, and access to bilingual
services for English-speaking communities in Quebec. (TF) Screenshot of the conference:
Consultation with the English-speaking communities in Quebec