Opposition Critic slams CAQ’s New “Intermediate Affordable” Housing Plan
Quebec is grappling with a housing crisis marked by soaring rents, limited availability of affordable units, and rising homelessness challenges that are acutely felt in Laval as well. With vacancy rates at historic lows and rental costs increasing faster than wages, many families struggle to find secure, affordable homes. In this context, any new housing initiative is closely scrutinized for its ability to address the province’s most urgent needs.
Opposition Critic Slams CAQ’s New “Intermediate Affordable” Housing Plan
According to a press release from the Parliamentary Wing of the Official Opposition dated May 1, Virginie Dufour, MNA for Mille‑Îles and Official Opposition Critic for Housing, used this week’s National Assembly budget estimates review to denounce the CAQ government’s creation of a new “intermediate affordable” housing category.
Dufour highlighted that the recently published component of the Housing Finance Program (April 9) will subsidize projects allowing rents up to 150 percent of the regional average. She argued that this measure “will in fact be more expensive and certainly will not meet the most pressing needs,” warning that it diverts public funds into developments beyond the reach of vulnerable households.
This announcement coincided with an IRIS report showing rent increases now outpacing inflation, deepening the poverty cycle for many families. Dufour pointed out that, at these levels, a four‑and‑a‑half‑room “intermediate affordable” apartment in Gatineau would cost $1,678 per month “simply unaffordable for families in need.”
“Nowhere in the CAQ’s housing program is the word ‘social’ even mentioned. The most vulnerable are cast aside!… They boast about creating new housing, but rents up to 150 percent of SHQ maximums are a far cry from true affordability.”
— Virginie Dufour, MNA for Mille‑Îles and Official Opposition Critic for Housing
Dufour’s comments reflect the opposition’s position that the CAQ lacks genuine commitment to social housing and low‑income households. This critique aired as the Assembly continues its examination of the 2025‑2026 budget estimates for the housing portfolio.
New Bill Proposes Tenant and Landlord Input on Rent Increases
In a related development, Dufour introduced a private member’s bill on April 24, to amend the Tribunal administratif du logement’s (TAL) rent‑setting formula. Her bill would establish an independent, joint committee of tenant and landlord associations empowered to recommend criteria for rent adjustments every five years. According to Dufour, “this important responsibility should not rest solely with the Minister of Housing. Those directly affected must have a seat at the table to ensure the formula remains fair, simple, and reflective of real market costs.” She urged the CAQ to study the bill promptly.
Dufour’s critiques and legislative proposal underscore the opposition’s view that the CAQ lacks genuine commitment to social housing and low‑income households as the Assembly continues its examination of the 2025‑2026 budget estimates for the housing portfolio.
Source: Press releases, Parliamentary Wing of the Official Opposition, May 1 and April 24, 2025
