Montreal Mayor Soraya Martinez Ferrada has voiced strong criticism of Quebec's 2026-27 provincial budget, asserting that it demonstrates the government's failure to acknowledge Montreal's role as a leading metropolis. Speaking from South Korea during an economic mission, the mayor emphasized the need for greater investment in critical urban areas.
Budget Falls Short on Key Urban Priorities
Reacting to the budget tabled by Quebec Finance Minister Eric Girard on Wednesday, Martinez Ferrada highlighted significant omissions affecting Montreal. The budget, described by Girard as "sober and targeted," focuses on business support, infrastructure investment, and increased health and education spending, but notably excludes funding for the long-delayed Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital expansion.
"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. "Montreal deserves to be taken care of. Whether it's regarding homelessness, housing, infrastructure, or healthcare facilities—because we contribute to the well-being of the entire province, just like the regions."
Hospital Expansion Omission Draws Ire
The Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital project, scheduled to begin in 2024, was anticipated to receive funding in the new budget. Hospital officials had expressed hope for this inclusion, but the budget provided no financial support. Martinez Ferrada condemned this oversight, noting that the hospital serves approximately 10 percent of Quebec's population.
"The Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital is important, and it's important for eastern Montreal," the mayor stated. "But we can't plan for or develop a sector as significant as eastern Montreal without healthcare infrastructure that respects its population."
Mayor Vows Continued Advocacy
When asked if she was disappointed with the budget overall, Martinez Ferrada avoided direct criticism but underscored the need for persistent efforts. "I will continue to work with the Quebec government to ensure we have the necessary investments to meet the needs of our city's residents," she affirmed. "And what I see is that there is still a lot of work to be done."
The mayor's comments were made during her first international economic mission since being elected in November, with trip dates finalized prior to the budget announcement. She followed the budget proceedings from Korea, dismissing any suggestion that her absence impacted Quebec's decisions.
Broader Implications for Montreal
Martinez Ferrada's remarks reflect ongoing tensions between Montreal and the provincial government over funding allocations. The budget's focus on broader provincial initiatives, such as supporting businesses and regional infrastructure, has raised concerns about whether Montreal's unique urban challenges—including homelessness, housing shortages, and healthcare capacity—are being adequately addressed.
As Montreal continues to grapple with these issues, the mayor's advocacy highlights the city's struggle for recognition and resources in Quebec's fiscal planning. The omission of hospital funding, in particular, underscores the potential consequences of what Martinez Ferrada perceives as a lack of metropolitan prioritization.
