The Partage St-François shelter says they have more than enough beds to help the homeless community avoid fines – but sanitary measures may force them to turn people away.
On Jan. 6, Premiere François Legault revealed the province would continue its lockdown measures for another month. This time, however, the government has enforced a strict curfew from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. In their press conference, they insisted this curfew applies to everyone, including people without a home.
“There’s more than enough [shelters] available,” said Legault when asked where homeless folks should go to avoid breaking curfew.
Starting this past Saturday, police officers were ordered to patrol Sherbrooke neighbourhoods and intercept any vehicles or individuals out past curfew. Danny McConnell, director of the Service de Police de Sherbrooke (SPS), said each interception will be treated on a case-by-case basis. He added that police officers have the right to question people about their reasons for being out; those who do not have valid motives will be fined anywhere between $1,000 to $6,000.
However, McConnell said the province has made a list of ten exceptions, including health care workers and dog-walkers, among others – but not including homeless folks.
Curfew ignores issues of substance abuse and mental health for homeless
By Marianne Lassonde
