Parti Québécois Leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon has accused the Canadian government of interfering in the Quebec provincial election, alleging it may be the most significant federal intervention in Quebec’s affairs since 1995. St-Pierre Plamondon claimed that while the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) government was in power for eight years, federal requests were consistently rejected, but recently there has been a surge in federal announcements.
During a news conference on the campaign trail ahead of the Oct. 5 election, St-Pierre Plamondon pointed to recent federal investments, such as the $11-billion funding for the Davie shipyard and the agreement between Newfoundland and Quebec on Churchill Falls. He also highlighted the $4.7-billion investment in constructing train cars in La Pocatière.
St-Pierre Plamondon suggested a collaboration between CAQ Leader Christine Fréchette’s campaign and the federal government, particularly regarding the tariff dispute with the United States. He expressed concern that the federal government is showing sudden interest in long-stalled issues as the PQ leads in the polls.
Fréchette denied the allegations of federal interference, emphasizing that recent announcements benefit Quebec and asserting her commitment to working for the province’s interests. She stated that partnerships with the federal government are essential when beneficial for Quebec.
While the PQ has called for an investigation by Élections Québec, Liberal Leader Charles Milliard dismissed the notion of a conspiracy and criticized the CAQ as opportunists rather than federalists.
St-Pierre Plamondon also raised concerns about ties between the CAQ campaign and Mission Leadership Québec, alleging the group’s affiliation with figures linked to the federal Liberal Party. The PQ has requested an investigation into possible interference and illegal contributions by the group to support the CAQ campaign.
Fréchette downplayed concerns about the CAQ’s association with Mission Leadership Québec, stating that her party does not delve into the internal operations of every group it collaborates with. The CAQ has a contract with Mission Leadership Québec for organizing two town halls, according to Fréchette.
CBC has sought a comment from Prime Minister Mark Carney’s office regarding the allegations, awaiting a response.