Quebec political parties debate immigration and sovereignty ahead of election

Political parties in Quebec are intensifying campaign efforts ahead of the October 5 election, focusing on immigration, transportation, and taxation. The Parti Québécois has pledged to hold a referendum on sovereignty during its leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon’s first term, despite polling suggesting the idea is unpopular with approximately 60% of residents.

Regarding immigration, the Parti Québécois proposes lowering the permanent immigration threshold to 35,000 and halving temporary immigration to reduce pressure on public services. In contrast, the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) has called for a more pragmatic approach to sovereignty discussions. Meanwhile, the Québec Solidarity Party is campaigning on a $23 billion plan to expand public transit, including metro extensions in Montreal.

The Conservative Party has focused on economic relief, promising to lower gasoline prices by exiting the carbon market and suspending provincial fuel taxes. This comes amid controversy regarding certain party candidates, though leadership has defended the campaign against what they term political attacks.