In a significant policy shift, Montreal is altering its approach to homelessness by allowing the existence of some encampments rather than immediately dismantling them. On Friday, Mayor Soraya Martinez Ferrada announced this new protocol, highlighting the importance of addressing the trauma caused by previous methods while acknowledging that encampments are not a sustainable solution.
A New Perspective on Homelessness
Martinez Ferrada emphasised that traditional approaches, which often involve dismantling encampments, have failed to provide a long-term solution to homelessness. “Dismantling as we have seen in the past does not work,” she stated. The mayor underscored that such actions tend merely to shift the issue rather than resolve it.
The city’s new policy introduces “tolerance zones” on municipal land. Within these designated areas, encampments will be permitted, provided they adhere to specific safety regulations. This framework aims to uphold the dignity and rights of those experiencing homelessness, recognising their humanity in a crisis that has been exacerbated by various social and economic factors.
Transitioning Towards Solutions
While acknowledging the need for a more permanent resolution, Mayor Martinez Ferrada noted that the path out of homelessness is complex and time-consuming. “Ultimately, we agree that the road map is to get people out of the camps,” she remarked, adding that the development of transitional housing and emergency shelters requires patience and proper planning.
The city has committed to a more compassionate approach, stating that if any safety or nuisance issues arise, instead of dismantling, they would simply relocate the encampment to a more suitable location. “We have a humanitarian crisis on our hands,” she said, insisting on the necessity for tolerance within a framework that also addresses the safety concerns of local residents.
Learning from Neighbouring Communities
Montreal’s new protocol draws inspiration from existing regulations in Longueuil, a city located on the South Shore of the St. Lawrence River. There, encampments are restricted to a maximum of five tents and are required to maintain a minimum distance of 250 metres from schools, daycare centres, seniors’ residences, and women’s shelters. This model aims to balance the needs of the unhoused with the concerns of the community, a delicate equilibrium that Montreal seeks to replicate.
The city’s approach reflects a growing recognition of the complexities surrounding homelessness and the need for innovative solutions that prioritise human dignity.
Why it Matters
This shift in policy is pivotal not only for the residents of Montreal but also serves as a potential blueprint for other cities grappling with similar crises. By adopting a more humane and structured approach, Montreal is taking a stand against the cycle of trauma associated with homelessness. The commitment to tolerance and the creation of safe spaces for those in need signals a broader societal move towards understanding and addressing the root causes of homelessness, rather than merely its symptoms. This strategy could inspire other municipalities to reconsider their methods, ultimately leading to more inclusive and effective solutions for some of the most vulnerable members of society.
