Lanaudière
The Opportunity: A $1.5 Billion Boost for Québec
Strategic investment in the English-speaking workforce is a critical lever for provincial growth. Closing the employment and income disparities between English and French speakers would add roughly $1.5 billion to Québec’s economy annually. As a candidate in the Lanaudière region, you represent a vital part of this economic opportunity.
Lanaudière Region: High Economic Drive Facing Systemic Gaps
Labour Force Participation: English speakers have a higher labour force participation rate than the French-speaking majority (67.2% compared to 64.1%).
Unemployment Rate: English speakers face an unemployment rate of 8.9%, higher than the 6.2% rate experienced by French speakers.
Sector Leaders: The top industry for English-speaking employment is ‘Manufacturing’ (11.9%), followed closely by ‘Retail trade’ (11.8%) and ‘Health care and social assistance’ (10.7%).
Core Challenges in the Lanaudière Region
Youth Disparities: English-speaking youth (15-24) face an unequal labour market, experiencing significantly higher unemployment rates than their French-speaking peers (16.4% compared to 10.0%).
Outmigration: The complete absence of an English-language CEGEP or post-secondary institution inside Lanaudière forces youth to leave the region for higher education.
Overqualification: Due to a lack of local networks or credential recognition, highly qualified English speakers frequently find themselves underutilized or trapped in entry-level, seasonal service roles.
Our 2026 Platform Recommendations
We call on all candidates to commit to the following evidence-based pillars:
Increased Funding for Work-integrated Learning Programs: Include English speakers as a target underrepresented group in existing work-integrated learning programs for individuals with difficulties finding long-term employment or acquiring work experience within the region.
Industry-Specific French-Language Training: Provide funding to improve the delivery of workforce-oriented French-language training.
Targeted Employment Programs: Adapt and expand existing public employment services, skills training, and employment programs to include English speakers, who are an underrepresented group in the labour market.