VIMHS
Vancouver Island Mental Health Society
Exploring the intersections of poverty and the justice system in Quebec
Exploring the intersections of poverty and the justice system in Quebec
Exploring the intersections of poverty and the justice system in Quebec
Friday 4th April 2025
Journalists Hal Newman and Chris Curtis explore how poverty intersects with the justice system in Quebec, revealing its harsh realities.
28 minutes
Informative
Honest
Compassionate
Eye-opening
Non-judgmental
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Sobriety Toolkit
Sexual Empowerment & Identity
Community & Support Networks
Policy & Advocacy
Body & Mind
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Get the buttons here!The Hidden Struggles: Poverty and Justice in Quebec
Episode Overview
- Poverty significantly worsens outcomes for those in the justice system.
- Access to legal aid in Quebec is extremely limited and often inadequate.
- Prison conditions are dire, with overcrowding and poor sanitation.
- Dedicated lawyers play a crucial role in helping vulnerable individuals.
- Systemic reforms are urgently needed to improve justice and rehabilitation.
"People who get caught up in the system, their lives almost always get immeasurably worse"
In this episode of People First Radio, journalists Hal Newman and Chris Curtis take a deep dive into the intersection of poverty and the criminal justice system in Quebec. Through months of interviews and research, they uncover how the justice system often worsens the lives of those already struggling with poverty. One particularly harrowing story is that of Vivian, whose life spiralled out of control after getting caught up in the system.
From owning a cleaning business to living on the streets and battling opioid addiction, Vivian's story is a stark example of how the system fails those it should protect. Curtis and Newman also discuss the challenges of accessing legal aid in Quebec, where only the very poorest qualify, and even then, the quality of representation can be severely lacking. The episode paints a grim picture of overcrowded and underfunded prisons, where conditions are dire and rehabilitation is a distant dream.
Yet, amidst the despair, there are glimmers of hope in the form of dedicated lawyers who fight tirelessly for their clients despite the odds. If you're interested in understanding the real impact of systemic issues on vulnerable populations, this episode is a must-listen.