Gatineau Community Groups affected by strike as CAQ promises change in funding

Jude Osmond

There was a province-wide strike organized under the movement Le communautaire à boutte! (The community is at its wit’s end!) which started on March 23 and ended on April 2. Many community organizations were protesting, and they closed their doors to send a message.

The organizations followed strike actions because their funding couldn't keep up with the demand for help, leaving workers underpaid and burnt out. Better funding and more recognition were needed.

Umbrella groups, such as those offering food assistance, or mental health and crisis support, participated in the strike. Approximately 75 community organizations were on strike in Outaouais, and 1,800 across Quebec.

The CAQ (Coalition Avenir Québec) is promising a massive new reinvestment plan if re-elected, allocating more money to community organizations.

The CAQ is announcing a plan to transfer 90% of service-based agreements to mission-based funding for organizations within the next four years. They are committed to raising funds globally for the missions of community organizations, not only in health and social services, but also for organizations funded by the Departments of Public Health, Justice, Education, etc.

The CAQ government is committed to creating a regional committee to ensure recognition and respect for groups working autonomously, including developing solutions to problems with wealth distribution and providing community groups with a safety net.