MONTREAL - Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante is calling on the Quebec government to appoint a dedicated minister for homelessness. She made this request during a news conference on Tuesday, coinciding with an anticipated cabinet shuffle by Premier François Legault. Plante emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that homelessness is a humanitarian crisis that requires focused government attention.

"I would like it to be in their title, in big letters," Plante said, advocating for a minister whose primary mission would be to address homelessness. She described the issue as complex and deep-rooted, deserving of a "top gun" to lead the efforts. Currently, the responsibility for homelessness falls under Lionel Carmant, the minister responsible for social services. Plante clarified that her request is not a criticism of Carmant, whom she considers an ally, but rather a recognition of the need for heightened focus on the crisis.

Plante urged Premier Legault to make a significant gesture in light of the ongoing crisis. She proposed nearly $22.5 million in new funding to combat homelessness, which includes a $700,000 allocation for shuttle services to help vulnerable individuals access resources. Additionally, she suggested granting about $21 million to approximately 40 community organizations over the next three years to support their efforts in addressing homelessness.

The mayor's proposals will be reviewed by the city's executive committee before any decisions are made. Plante is also encouraging other levels of government to contribute to the fight against homelessness.

Leaders of two major homeless shelters in Montreal echoed Plante's call for more action from higher government levels. James Hughes, president and CEO of the Old Brewery Mission, acknowledged Carmant's dedication but stated that more power and resources are needed. Sam Watts, head of the Welcome Hall Mission, emphasized the necessity for all levels of government to demonstrate greater courage in addressing the crisis. He pointed out that the homeless crisis has been developing for decades, while politicians typically serve four-year terms.

A recent report from Montreal's public consultation office revealed a 33 percent increase in visible homelessness from 2018 to 2022. Legault's office has indicated that announcements regarding the cabinet shuffle will be made in due course.