The relocation of the Chicoutimi homeless shelter will not have solved everything in the city center. Traders once again denounce the problems associated with the presence of homeless people.
Recording by TVA Nouvelles
Problematic situations are becoming more frequent in the subway on Racine Street. The Bürgerplatz has become a meeting point.
“We are opposite the community center, which is really difficult compared to the staff. We need to get homeless people out. Verbal, physical and also sexual violence occurs. For example, I can no longer keep employees who are 16 years old. They are too scared,” confirmed Karine Bouchard, manager of the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean subway.
Recording by TVA Nouvelles
There are also homeless people in the croissant café. “Maybe 5% have a mental health problem, but the rest are well behaved,” explained owner Annie Guillemette.
Despite the efforts of various authorities, the problem persists. Misbehavior is not the only problem. The facilities are also broken. “We have a beautiful patio in the summer, we had broken tables, tables on the street,” Ms. Bouchard said.
Some employees also decide to quit out of fear. “I had two resignations again in the last month. Our priority is protecting our employees. We are currently not in a position to do that,” said the supervisor.
Recording by TVA Nouvelles
She wishes there were more resources available. “It is a minority that creates problems. Not all homeless people do that. They need help, resources. We have to find a long-term solution,” she explained.
Traders are also hoping for more oversight in the industry.