As Montréal faces a pivotal leadership transition, Alex Tyrrell, leader of the Green Party of Quebec, has thrown his support behind Luc Rabouin, a candidate vying to succeed Valérie Plante as the head of Projet Montréal. Tyrrell’s endorsement carries significant weight in a city where environmental and social justice issues rank high on the public agenda.
In a statement released today, Tyrrell emphasized that Rabouin is the candidate best positioned to accelerate Montreal’s transition toward a greener, more socially equitable future. His decision is based on Rabouin’s detailed and ambitious platform, which prioritizes sustainable urban development, affordable housing, and environmental protections.
A Key Endorsement for a City That Cares About Green Policies
Tyrrell, who has long been an advocate for eco-socialism and transformative environmental policies, sees Rabouin as the natural successor to Projet Montréal’s progressive legacy. “Luc Rabouin has defined his campaign as the acceleration of Projet Montréal’s approach to environmental and social justice issues. Out of the five candidates running for the leadership, he has the most complete and detailed platform,” he stated.
This endorsement matters. Montréalers have repeatedly demonstrated their commitment to environmental action, urban sustainability, and social equity—values that have been at the heart of Projet Montréal’s policies under Valérie Plante. Rabouin’s campaign pledges to expand public transit, green infrastructure, and bike lanes while reducing the city’s dependence on cars align with what many citizens expect from their municipal leadership.
A Platform Rooted in Environmental and Social Progress
According to Tyrrell, Rabouin’s proposals resonate deeply with those who prioritize concrete environmental measures and progressive urban planning. His platform includes:
✅ $100 million to buy and de-commodify housing, removing it from speculation.
✅ Free construction permits for non-profit housing projects, supporting the social economy.
✅ 600 modular units over four years to provide permanent housing for the homeless.
✅ A reduction and taxation of advertising, tackling consumerism and public space pollution.
These commitments are in line with the Green Party of Quebec’s platform, which has historically pushed for radical climate action and social equity. While Tyrrell acknowledges that his party would go further—advocating for defunding the police, free public transit for all, and stricter regulations on corporate housing acquisitions—he sees Rabouin as a candidate who understands the urgency of these issues and is willing to take meaningful action.
A Second Choice in the Race: Gracia Kasoki Katahwa
While Rabouin remains Tyrrell’s top pick, he also highlighted Gracia Kasoki Katahwa as a strong second choice, particularly for her stance on police reform, anti-racism, and rent control. Although she does not go as far as Rabouin on environmental issues, her advocacy for a congestion tax, strengthening rent control, and municipal jurisdiction over housing policy are policies that align with progressive values.
The Fight for a Greener, More Inclusive Montreal Continues
Tyrrell’s endorsement of Rabouin and Katahwa signals a broader push for strong, eco-conscious leadership in Montreal. However, he warns that regardless of who wins the race, activists and progressives must remain vigilant. “Environmentalists and progressives will need to continue our advocacy and pressure campaigns to ensure that these promises are delivered and that Projet Montréal goes above and beyond its platform,” he wrote.
With climate change intensifying, rents soaring, and social inequalities deepening, the next mayor of Montréal will face significant challenges. Tyrrell’s endorsement highlights the stakes of this leadership race and underscores the expectations of a population that increasingly demands bold action on climate and social justice.
As Projet Montréal members prepare to cast their votes, Tyrrell’s statement serves as a reminder that the path to a greener, fairer, and more inclusive city depends on electing leaders willing to take decisive action—and holding them accountable once in power.