On June 11, 2026, Justice Alexandre Pless issued an order that stops the planned eviction of a homeless encampment in Montreal. The judge based the decision on constitutional guarantees that protect the safety, security and dignity of people experiencing homelessness.
City officials had announced a plan to clear the encampment, prompting legal action that brought the matter before the court. The municipal proposal to remove the site was intended to address concerns about public space, but the legal challenge focused on the rights of the encampment’s residents.
In his ruling, Justice Pless emphasized that constitutional protections apply equally to all residents, regardless of housing status. The order therefore requires municipal authorities to halt any removal activities until the court can further assess the legality of the eviction plan.
The injunction means that, for the time being, the encampment will remain in place. City workers are instructed to refrain from dismantling shelters, confiscating belongings or otherwise disrupting the site until additional judicial guidance is provided.
Legal experts note that the decision reinforces the duty of local governments to consider constitutional rights when developing policies that affect vulnerable populations. The ruling may shape how other Quebec municipalities approach the management of homeless encampments, ensuring that any future actions are subject to rigorous legal review.
No further details were released regarding the next steps in the case. The court’s order makes clear that any subsequent attempts to clear the encampment must first address the safety, security and dignity concerns highlighted by the judge.