Christine Fréchette suggests Quebecers may favor fracking for autonomy

Coalition Avenir Québec leader Christine Fréchette stated during a news conference in Trois-Rivières that Quebecers may be becoming more open to shale gas development. This shift in perspective comes amid trade tensions with the United States and a desire for greater economic autonomy from American markets.

Fréchette’s comments follow a report by La Presse indicating that while the public remains heavily divided on fracking, support increases when viewed as a means to achieve energy independence. The issue has become a focal point in the Quebec election campaign, with the Quebec Conservatives advocating for fossil fuels to stimulate the economy.

The CAQ previously banned the exploration and production of shale gas in 2022 under former premier François Legault. While Fréchette has expressed openness to revisiting the policy, she noted that any future movement toward shale gas development would require social acceptance.