A Montreal encampment shaped Quebec’s race, but survival is top priority

A Montreal encampment, located on Notre Dame Street in the city's east end, has become a focal point in Quebec's election campaign. The encampment, which houses around 200 residents, has drawn attention from all party leaders. However, many of the encampment's inhabitants, like Dan Dumont, are more concerned with practical issues such as survival and health than the political campaign.

Dan Dumont, who has lived on the street for over six years, has set up two tents in the encampment and suffers from various health issues, including blood clots in his brain and metastatic cancer. His primary concern is finding a stable place to live. The discovery of a baby at the encampment in mid-September sparked outrage among party leaders, who were criticized for their initial reactions.

Paul St-Pierre Plamondon, the leader of the Parti Québécois, emphasized the encampment as his top priority, while Christine Frechette of Coalition Avenir Québec promised to work with the mayor on issues such as transitional housing and mental health. Despite these promises, many encampment residents remain skeptical, citing insufficient resources and unmet needs.

Devint, a resident of the encampment and a spokesperson for the community, remains skeptical about politicians' promises and urges them to engage directly with the issue.