Dismantling encampments could hurt people: Montreal report on housing difficulties – CTV News

January 20, 2025

The City of Montreal unveiled on Monday the results of a report by its ad hoc committee on the issues and needs of people unable to obtain housing.

In the 63-page report obtained by Noovo Info, the committee points out that dismantling homeless encampments could have dire consequences on people’s health, including “the rupture of social ties and loss of support and resources. [It creates] displacements that force people to move to places that are remote, isolated, dangerous and less accessible.”

It also advises the need for a clear protocol when carrying out dismantlement operations when and if necessary.

“Thanks to this dialogue between experts from diverse backgrounds, we can better envision the creative solutions needed to overcome the social challenge of homelessness,” said Robert Beaudry, the executive committee member responsible for homelessness. “Our administration is committed to continuing to bring the voices of community organizations and Montrealers, both housed and unhoused, to the table to ensure the necessary assistance.”