Montreal Mayor Soraya Martinez Ferrada has voiced strong criticism of Quebec's 2026-27 provincial budget, asserting that it demonstrates the government's continued failure to acknowledge Montreal as a major metropolis. Speaking on Friday, the mayor emphasized that the city "deserves to be taken care of" and highlighted urgent needs in areas such as homelessness, housing, and healthcare infrastructure.
Budget Falls Short on Key Investments
Reacting to the budget released this week, Martinez Ferrada pointed out that it lacks essential funding for critical urban projects. She expressed frustration over the omission of money for the long-delayed rebuilding and expansion of the Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital, a facility that serves approximately 10 percent of Quebec's population. The mayor stressed that developing eastern Montreal is impossible without adequate healthcare infrastructure to support its residents.
Mayor's Call for Recognition
"What I understand from the budget is that we still have a tremendous amount of work to do with the Quebec government to convince it Montreal is an important metropolis," Martinez Ferrada told reporters. She added that Montreal contributes significantly to the province's well-being, similar to other regions, and therefore warrants more substantial investment. The mayor made these comments while wrapping up an economic mission in South Korea, noting she followed the budget proceedings remotely.
Provincial Government's Stance
Quebec Finance Minister Eric Girard described the budget as "sober and targeted," focusing on supporting businesses, investing in infrastructure, and increasing spending on health and education. However, critics, including Martinez Ferrada, argue it falls short in addressing Montreal's specific needs. The mayor stopped short of expressing outright disappointment but reiterated her commitment to ongoing collaboration with the provincial government to secure necessary investments.
Implications for Montreal's Future
The budget's lack of funding for key projects raises concerns about Montreal's ability to tackle pressing issues like homelessness and housing shortages. Martinez Ferrada's remarks underscore a persistent tension between the city and provincial authorities over resource allocation. As Montreal continues to grow as an economic hub, the mayor's advocacy highlights the need for a more inclusive approach in future budgetary decisions to ensure the city's development aligns with its metropolitan status.
