Sunday marks the fourth day of campaigning in Quebec’s election, with a focus on affordability, except for the Parti Québécois (PQ) emphasizing the protection of the French language.
The PQ aims to extend the Charter of the French Language, also known as Bill 101, to CEGEPs and the children of temporary immigrants residing in Quebec for over a year.
Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) Leader Christine Fréchette reiterated the party’s commitment to achieving a balanced budget by 2030, despite a $6 billion shortfall. The CAQ’s proposed election pledges are estimated to total nearly $10 billion over the next five years, including investments in home care services, housing for seniors, and regional support.
Québec Solidaire (QS) unveiled a housing plan, criticizing the CAQ’s response to the housing crisis. QS’s plan includes measures such as creating a rental unit registry, limiting evictions, and developing a national strategy to end homelessness.
Quebec Liberal Leader Charles Milliard pledged to cap rent increases at private seniors’ residences, shifting the burden of proof away from residents when challenging rent hikes above the cap. Meanwhile, the Conservative Party of Quebec (PCQ) proposed eliminating the Quebec sales tax on used goods, aiming to put money back into Quebecers’ pockets.
Parti Québécois leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon reinforced his commitment to expanding Bill 101 to CEGEPs and enhancing French language requirements for work permits. St-Pierre Plamondon also highlighted the importance of preserving French as a cornerstone of his party’s agenda.