Quebec’s election campaign enters its fourth day with a focus on affordability, except for the Parti Québécois (PQ) emphasizing French language protection. The PQ aims to extend Bill 101, also known as the Charter of the French Language, to CEGEPs and children of temporary immigrants residing in Quebec for over a year.
Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) Leader Christine Fréchette remains committed to achieving a balanced budget by 2030, despite a $6 billion shortfall. The CAQ’s election pledges are projected to cost nearly $10 billion over the next five years, with highlights including $1 billion for home care services, housing initiatives for seniors, and $304 million allocated for regional support. The CAQ plans to uphold investments in public infrastructure amid challenges such as the 50% tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, delaying tax cuts until the budget is balanced.
Québec Solidaire (QS) unveiled a comprehensive housing plan, criticizing the CAQ’s response to the housing crisis. QS’s plan includes measures like establishing a rental unit registry, preventing evictions, combating illegal Airbnb activities, and formulating a national strategy to end homelessness. QS will disclose the financial details of its plan in the upcoming fiscal framework.
Quebec Liberal Leader Charles Milliard promised enhanced protections for seniors in private residences by capping rent increases and shifting burdens during disputes to the residences. The Quebec Liberals highlighted the significant rise in rent costs in private home care over the past four years.
The Conservative Party of Quebec (PCQ) announced plans to eliminate Quebec sales tax on used items, projecting savings for Quebec households. PCQ aims to reduce government spending by $47 billion over five years without affecting public services. Additionally, PCQ pledged measures to safeguard forestry jobs, including abolishing the carbon tax and promoting local producers.
The Parti Québécois remains steadfast in expanding Bill 101 to CEGEPs and temporary migrant children, emphasizing the importance of the French language. Leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon advocates for stricter French language requirements in various sectors and plans to investigate language use in schools. Upholding the French language is a central tenet of St-Pierre Plamondon’s agenda, asserting Quebec’s commitment to being a French-speaking nation.