Justice Minister Simon Jolin-Barrette is set to unveil his proposed Quebec constitution this week, addressing what he calls a longstanding issue in the province.
Expressing the need to rectify Quebec’s lack of a formal constitution, the minister emphasized the importance of ensuring that Quebecers have the tools to shape their own destiny. Describing the absence of a constitution as a “historical anomaly,” he stressed the significance of Quebec claiming its rightful place in the constitutional landscape.
Jolin-Barrette emphasized that the proposed constitution would not align with any specific political party but rather aim to reflect the identity and aspirations of the people of Quebec.
Calling for unity across party lines, the minister urged legislators to rise above partisan differences and embrace this historic opportunity to establish Quebec’s first constitution. He declared it as a defining moment for the current generation.
However, despite calls for collaboration, opposition parties raised concerns about the proposed constitution. The Quebec Liberal Party criticized the government for what they perceived as rushed decision-making, while Québec solidaire questioned the necessity of a provincial constitution prepared solely within the minister’s office. Meanwhile, PQ leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon expressed skepticism, stating that a Quebec constitution would have limited impact as long as the province remains part of the Canadian federation.
