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Quebec Faces Demographic Challenges: Declining Fertility and Migration Policies

Recent reports highlight significant demographic issues in Quebec, including a historically low fertility rate of 1.33 children per woman and a decline in immigration. Experts argue that to protect the French language and sustain the population, the government should not only reduce immigration but also actively promote higher birth rates among Quebec women who desire larger families. Studies reveal that many women wish to have two or more children but are unable to due to economic and social factors. Recommendations include increasing parental benefits, expanding childcare availability, and possibly offering free education for young parents to encourage larger families. Additionally, rising housing costs and difficulties in acquiring second homes hinder family expansion. Meanwhile, healthcare professionals are leaving the Quebec system for better conditions elsewhere. A family doctor from Drummondville recently left her practice, citing system constraints and administrative pressures that conflict with providing quality care. Similarly, a Quebec radiologist, Talar Derashodian, moved to Alberta in 2023, citing better work-life balance, recognition, and administrative support. She criticizes Quebec’s current negotiations with doctors, which she views as unreasonable and damaging to healthcare quality. Both professionals emphasize that systemic reforms and improved support are crucial to retain medical talent and ensure sustainable healthcare services. These issues are interconnected, with demographic decline threatening the French-speaking population and healthcare professionals seeking better working conditions outside Quebec, further exacerbating the province’s challenges.

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