The Quebec government’s plan to invest public funds in the defense sector has triggered a strong reaction from Quebec Solidaire (QS), a left-wing party expressing deep concerns.
Describing the move as “absolutely terrible and worrying,” interim QS spokesperson Guillaume Cliche-Rivard criticized the decision to subsidize companies in the defense industry for military production. He emphasized that such investments, including in missiles and machine guns, do not align with Quebec’s international reputation, questioning Premier François Legault’s mandate for such actions.
According to a report by Radio-Canada, Minister of Economy, Innovation, and Energy Christine Fréchette disclosed that Investissement Québec is now allowed to support military production following regulatory changes. Quebec aims to capitalize on the federal government’s increased military spending and the European Union’s substantial €800 billion investment in rearmament.
Cliche-Rivard raised concerns about prioritizing defense spending over essential services like education, questioning the government’s allocation of funds. QS leader Ruba Ghazal criticized Legault for aligning with Prime Minister Mark Carney’s policies, particularly questioning the choice of allied countries for arms sales.
While the parliamentary session was scheduled to resume, Legault postponed it by two weeks to allow new ministers to settle into their roles. This decision drew criticism from QS, accusing the premier of evading accountability and responsibility to Quebecers.
Ghazal further pointed out that dissatisfaction within the CAQ members indicates a lack of confidence in the government, suggesting that the administration may be entering its “twilight years.”
