The SOS Outaouais coalition has expressed disappointment with the Québec government’s 2026-2027 budget, arguing that it fails to address the region’s specific needs. With general elections just months away, the organization criticizes the lack of structural measures to correct the chronic underfunding in Outaouais, particularly in the healthcare system.
Although the budget allocates $2.2 billion over five years to improve access to care and reduce waitlists, SOS Outaouais points out that these funds do not account for historical funding disparities between regions. According to the coalition, this approach risks perpetuating existing inequalities, leaving Outaouais with fewer resources despite comparable needs.
The organization also highlights workforce challenges, intensified by the proximity of Ontario. It regrets the absence of targeted measures to counter the exodus of healthcare workers, especially regarding working conditions and remuneration.
In this pre-election context, SOS Outaouais calls on political parties to make equitable healthcare funding a central campaign issue. The coalition plans to continue its advocacy efforts to secure concrete commitments tailored to the region’s realities.
Finally, it reiterates that the population of Outaouais deserves equitable access to quality healthcare services and urges decision-makers to act promptly to address the situation.
