Québec Conservative Leader Éric Duhaime unveiled a new initiative on Sunday that offers a $100 discount for participating in sports activities.
The program, called Passe Sport, is designed to provide financial support to all Québec residents with a household income below $100,000. This initiative is expected to benefit around 1.3 million individuals, according to estimates from the party.
Duhaime stressed the importance of physical activity during a press conference at a recreation center in Pont-Rouge, emphasizing that staying active is essential for overall well-being.
The Passe Sport discount can be used for various sports-related expenses, including registering for sports teams, gym memberships, or municipal activities like swimming pool access. However, instead of providing cash directly to families, the discount will be accessible through a government portal that businesses in the physical activity sector can use to verify customers’ eligibility.
Providers will receive government transfers to cover the discounted amount, ensuring that participants receive the promised savings. Additionally, the introduction of Passe Sport will lead to the removal of the tax credit for children’s activities related to physical activity.
In addition to this initiative, the Québec Conservative Party (PCQ) plans to enhance sports education in schools by increasing physical education periods in elementary and high schools. They also aim to reintroduce a fourth physical education course in CEGEP.
Taking inspiration from Slovenia’s sports education model, the Conservatives propose implementing annual fitness assessments in schools, including tests like the “beep” test, push-ups, and pull-ups. These assessments are intended to help students track their progress and improvements.
Marcel Bouchard, the Conservative candidate for Portneuf and the party’s sports spokesperson, highlighted the importance of including swimming in the physical education curriculum to prevent drownings.
Duhaime participated in the Course du Vieux-Moulin race in Grondines after the announcement, demonstrating his commitment to promoting physical activity in the community.
The Québec Conservative Party’s focus on sports and physical education contrasts with Premier Christine Fréchette’s recent decision to convene a special cabinet meeting, drawing criticism from Duhaime, who accused her of exploiting the current situation for political gain.
