Consultation highlights urgent needs of English-Speaking Quebecers

Tashi Farmilo

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 underutilised 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 prioritise 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 emphasised 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 organisers 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.