Experts are concerned that merging INESSS and INSPQ into the new Quebec Institute of Health and Social Services (IQSSS) under Bill 7 may shift funding towards care over public health prevention. France-Élaine Duranceau, the minister overseeing government efficiency, is vigorously defending the bill, aiming to cut costs by $35 million by 2029-30.
During special consultations on Bill 7, Duranceau acknowledged experts’ concerns and indicated that amendments would be made to uphold the organization’s mission. Despite the planned reduction of 220 full-time positions, including in healthcare, Duranceau emphasized that the focus remains on maintaining expertise in health and public health prevention.
Critics, such as Louise Potvin from the Université de Montréal, warn that the merger could lead to Quebec stepping back from public-health leadership, potentially impacting funding allocation towards care instead of prevention. However, Minister Duranceau reassured that the budget for INSPQ’s operations and mission would not be diminished.
Lara Gautier, a professor at the Université de Montréal, urged for safeguards to maintain the integrity of INSPQ and prioritize public health training and research in the new structure. Despite concerns that Bill 7 might undermine Quebec’s public health advancements, the government aims to streamline operations, including transferring national laboratories to Santé Québec.
