Parti Québécois Leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon has expressed concerns about potential interference from the Canadian government in the Quebec provincial election, stating that it may be the most significant federal involvement since 1995. St-Pierre Plamondon highlighted a shift in the federal government’s behavior, noting a series of recent announcements compared to the past eight years under the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) government.
During a press conference on the campaign trail before the Oct. 5 election, St-Pierre Plamondon pointed to recent federal investments, such as the $11-billion funding for the Davie shipyard and the Churchill Falls agreement between Newfoundland and Quebec. He also mentioned the $4.7-billion investment for train car construction in La Pocatière. Additionally, he raised concerns about potential collaboration between CAQ Leader Christine Fréchette’s campaign and Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government regarding the tariff dispute with the United States.
St-Pierre Plamondon emphasized that the federal government’s sudden interest in longstanding issues coinciding with the election period raises suspicions. He expressed worry about the implications of such interference, especially with the PQ leading in the polls.
In response, Fréchette denied any allegations of Ottawa’s interference, emphasizing the positive impact of recent federal announcements on Quebec. She stressed the importance of beneficial partnerships with the federal government while maintaining Quebec’s interests.
The Prime Minister’s Office affirmed its commitment to working with all provincial leaders to enhance the economy and support businesses, regardless of party affiliation. The federal government reiterated its non-interference policy in provincial elections and pledged to collaborate with Quebec’s government post-election.
Meanwhile, the PQ has called for an investigation into alleged ties between the CAQ campaign and Mission Leadership Québec, a group advocating for Canadian unity. St-Pierre Plamondon raised concerns about the group’s connections to the federal Liberal Party and its involvement in campaign events for Fréchette’s team. Despite these allegations, Fréchette dismissed any wrongdoing, stating that the CAQ’s engagement with Mission Leadership Québec was limited to organizing specific events.