Quebec political candidates advocate for decentralized healthcare

Political candidates in Quebec are focusing on the decentralization of healthcare and social services as part of their regional platforms.

Emmanuelle Tremblay, representing Québec solidaire in the Gatineau riding, has criticized the centralization of health services under Santé Québec. She argues that recent administrative changes have weakened the capacity of local CLSCs (Centre local de services communautaires) and disconnected decision-making from the realities of rural and urban populations. Tremblay aims to re-emphasize the role of CLSCs to ensure more accessible local service points.

In the Laviolette-Saint-Maurice riding, Parti québécois candidate Élodie Murphy-Gauthier is also prioritizing local access to public services. Addressing service disruptions, such as the temporary closure of a youth and family center in La Tuque, Murphy-Gauthier is advocating for better local governance, the reimbursement of travel costs for those seeking care, and increased support for community organizations and the social economy.