Quebec Prepares New Constitution to Enhance Autonomy and Identity
Quebec’s Minister of Justice and Canadian Relations, Simon Jolin-Barrette, is set to unveil a draft constitution for Quebec in the upcoming days, aiming to bolster the province’s autonomy and institutions.
According to Jolin-Barrette, this constitution will serve as both a reflection and a shield for the Quebec nation. He emphasized the importance of preserving Quebec’s heritage while envisioning a proud, strong, and united future for the province.
Described as “the law of laws,” the constitution will consolidate the principles and foundations of Quebec as a state into a single comprehensive document.
This initiative stems from the recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Constitutional Issues, which advocated for a Quebec constitution to enhance the province’s autonomy within Canada.
Premier François Legault highlighted the significance of autonomy in safeguarding Quebec’s language and values, underscoring the constitution’s pivotal role in addressing these aspects.
However, the Parti Québécois (PQ) has expressed reservations about the process, citing concerns about consultation and partisanship in drafting the constitution. The PQ asserts that a Quebec constitution within Canada may have limited impact unless it leads to the establishment of an independent Quebec.
The PQ plans to introduce a transitional constitution upon assuming power, followed by consultations with various stakeholders to develop Quebec’s permanent constitution post-independence.
As the PQ gears up to reveal its constitutional proposal in the coming weeks, the party has pledged to hold a referendum within its first term if elected, emphasizing identity issues as a key focus leading up to the next election.
