Montreal police move in to dismantle part of homeless encampment east of downtown

Montreal police are currently carrying out an operation to dismantle sections of a homeless encampment located on Notre-Dame Street East near the city’s downtown core. This comes after the Quebec Transport Ministry issued eviction notices to the individuals living in tents near Morgan Park in the Mercier–Hochelaga-Maisonneuve borough. The Quebec government owns the land where the encampment is situated, and the province cited fire hazards and unsanitary conditions as the reasons for the dismantling.

Initially, the residents were given until November 21 to vacate the area, but the deadline was later extended to today. Montreal police chief Fady Dagher stated that the operation has been progressing smoothly, with some resistance from the residents, but no violence has occurred. He acknowledged that asking individuals to leave their long-term living situation can be challenging and emotional.

Rhys Buhl, an organizer with Refus Local, a group advocating for the unhoused campers, expressed her concerns about the police operation. She witnessed around 50 police officers surrounding the camp, along with loader and garbage trucks clearing out the residents’ tents and personal belongings. Buhl described the police approach as violent and questioned the necessity of dismantling the camp without providing alternative resources to ensure the safety and well-being of the residents.

Welcome Hall Mission CEO Sam Watts emphasized the need for compassionate solutions to address homelessness. He highlighted the importance of avoiding extremes, such as allowing outdoor encampments to persist unsafely or using heavy machinery to forcibly remove vulnerable individuals. Watts stressed the significance of finding creative solutions, such as rent supplements, to help people afford housing and prevent homelessness.

In response to the ongoing situation, Welcome Hall Mission and other advocacy groups are calling for a more compassionate approach from the City of Montreal and provincial authorities. They argue that the campers are organized and supportive of each other, demonstrating resilience in their survival situation. The focus should be on providing resources and support to help individuals transition from temporary shelter to permanent housing.

As the dismantling of the homeless encampment continues, it is crucial for all parties involved to prioritize the well-being of the residents and work towards long-term solutions to address homelessness in Montreal. By fostering collaboration, compassion, and innovative approaches, the city can create a more sustainable and inclusive environment for all its residents.