Parti Québécois proposes abolishing Santé Québec

The Parti Québécois (PQ) has announced a plan to abolish Santé Québec if elected to office, aiming to redirect funds toward direct patient care. PQ leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon characterized the state-owned corporation as a ‘bureaucratic monster’ with uncontrolled growth, noting that its workforce has increased from 760 to 1,300 employees in two years.

The PQ estimates that abolishing the entity could save at least $40 million annually, with some internal evaluations suggesting potential savings of up to $100 million by eliminating overlapping decision-making spheres between the ministry, Santé Québec, and regional health authorities (CISSS and CIUSSS). These savings would be used to strengthen frontline services through local clinics (CLSCs) and reduce surgical wait times.

Health Minister Sonia Bélanger criticized the proposal, calling it ‘simplistic’ and ‘almost dishonest.’ She defended Santé Québec, stating that the organization has already successfully consolidated 30 structures and created a single employer to facilitate workforce mobility and best practices.