Québec, March 26, 2025 – The Provincial Employment Roundtable (PERT) is concerned by the lack of targeted investments for the employment of the province’s English-speaking community in Québec’s 2025-26 budget. 

“The inclusion of measures in this budget to support businesses impacted by the U.S. tariffs is welcome. However, we believe the tariffs will have a disproportionate impact on the employment of Québec’s English speakers, and we don’t see any funding that will ensure our community receives the employment services we need to respond to the current economic context,” said Nicholas Salter, Executive Director of PERT. 

Despite their disappointment with the lack of funding for targeted employment services, PERT has identified some positive investments in this budget.

PERT supports the new investment of $10 million over the next 5 years for the Secrétariat aux relations avec les Québécois d’expression anglaise (SRQEA)’s program in order to support access to services, most notably in health and social services.

“The work of the SRQEA and its programs are essential pieces needed to support the vitality of Québec’s English-speaking communities. It is great to see funding continue to this important organisation,” added Salter. 

PERT also recognizes the investment of $141 million over the next five years in the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI). This investment will make it possible to continue francization, guidance and integration initiatives, which are integral to meeting the growing demand for French language courses.

“A robust French language learning infrastructure is critical for the success of English speakers in Québec’s labour market. Our hope is that this money translates to significant investments in French language learning opportunities which target the needs of our communities,” concluded Salter. 

PERT’s most recent pre-budgetary submission called on the government to develop and implement employment support strategies tailored to Québec’s English speakers. 

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About PERT 

The Provincial Employment Roundtable (PERT) is a non-profit multi-stakeholder
initiative focused on addressing the employment and employability challenges facing
Québec’s English-speaking community. For more information about the Provincial
Employment Roundtable: https://pertquebec.ca/

Chad Walcott
Director of Engagement & Communications
Provincial Employment Roundtable (PERT)
Chad@pertquebec.ca
1-855-773-7885 ext. 737