Outaouais
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 Outaouais region, you represent a vital part of this economic opportunity.
Outaouais Region
English-Speaking Population: There are approximately 83,130 English speakers in Outaouais, representing 20.7% of the region’s population.
Education: Nearly 85% of English speakers in the region have at least secondary school education. Higher than that of French speakers (80.1%).
Labour Force Scale: English-speaking workers make up 21.4% of the region's total labour force.
Sector Leaders: The top three industries employing English speakers in the region are 'Public administration' (23.1%), followed by 'Health care and social assistance' (10.4%) and 'Construction' (8.9%).
Core Challenges in Outaouais
Unemployment: English speakers in Outaouais face an unemployment rate of 11.1%, running significantly higher than the 8.2% unemployment rate experienced by their French-speaking peers.
Advanced Language Hurdles: Just over half of English speakers in the region report being bilingual; many face challenges navigating predominantly French labour markets due to a lack of workplace-specific language training.
Program Accessibility Gaps: While local employment resources exist, there is a need to improve the accessibility of existing employment programs for English speakers through partnerships with existing organizations and employers within the French-language ecosystem.
Our 2026 Platform Recommendations
We call on all candidates to commit to the following evidence-based pillars:
Increased Funding for On-the-Job Learning Programs: Include English speakers as a target underrepresented group in existing on-the-job 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 on-the-job 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.