Bill No. 198, presented by Elisabeth Prass, Member of Parliament for D'Arcy-McGee, proposes to proclaim the third Friday in October as National Homelessness Awareness Day in Quebec.
This day would aim to raise awareness about homelessness, reduce prejudice, and encourage a better understanding of its causes and effects.
The bill is in line with the National Homelessness Strategy adopted in 2014 and the Homelessness Night, which has been held annually at this same time since 1989.
The text does not provide any new specific measures regarding housing, funding, or services. It only states that the law would come into effect on the date of its sanction.
No official cost estimates are provided in the bill.
The proclamation of a national day could incur some administrative or communication costs for the government and organizations that choose to organize activities. However, the bill does not provide for any specific funding or new mandatory expenses.
Supporters might argue that raising awareness is an important step in combating homelessness.
According to the bill, homelessness affects not only those directly involved but also society as a whole. An official day could:
Supporters might also emphasize that this day would build on an already existing activity, the Homelessness Night.
Opponents might argue that a day of awareness is not enough to address the rising issue of homelessness.
They might call for more concrete measures, such as:
They might also fear that the proclamation gives an impression of action without providing additional resources. However, the bill does not contain any provisions that would prevent the government or other organizations from adopting such measures in the future.