AMBITIOUS GOALS FOR QUEBEC A NEW AGENDA FOR QUEBEC NATIONALISTS

Transcription

1 AMBITIOUS GOALS FOR QUEBEC A NEW AGENDA FOR QUEBEC NATIONALISTS Statement to the General Council of Coalition Avenir Québec Laval, November 8, 2015

2 This statement marks the start of a consultation process with the members of Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ). Carried out by the policy committee, this process will end with the CAQ conference in fall 2016.

3 FOREWORD FROM THE LEADER PRIDE AND PROSPERITY A clear majority of Quebecers want their nation to have more power and autonomy within Canada. We will not achieve these goals unless nationalists come together and commit to an agenda that is grounded and realistic. Unfortunately, this is currently not the case. The issue of sovereignty has divided the population, and the interminable polarization around this issue has weakened Quebec and has kept the Liberal party in power. While in power, they weakly and half-heartedly defend Quebec s interests. Meanwhile, Quebec s economy has stalled, and its growth is anemic. Inertia has taken hold, at a time when intense effort must be deployed in order to focus on recovery and development. We need to break out of this impasse and change this grim climate. Our divisiveness has gone on for long enough, which is why I am calling upon all of Quebec s nationalists to support an agenda that will let Quebec move forward and assert its place within Canada. I firmly believe that Quebec needs an ambitious economic plan, in order to fund its own programs without resorting to massive federal equalization payments. This will improve our prospects when negotiating with Canada and further cement our standing. For us to foster this new good faith relationship with Canada, all nationalists must unite to carry out the wishes of the vast majority of Quebecers. This new agenda must target clear and concrete objectives, and give Quebec the tools to assert and protect its identity. It must also give the powers and resources it needs to revive its economy. For too long, the PQ has claimed to be the lone voice of national pride, while the Liberal party has claimed to be the champion of prosperity. These illusions have now been shattered, as both parties have proven their respective inability to move Quebec out of its constitutional impasse and overcome its slow economic growth.

4 Quebec is strongest when it is united. Now is the time for us to come together, and help Quebec move forward in a pragmatic and responsible way. I truly believe that we can now take strong political actions that will yield results within the Canadian federal context. The CAQ must articulate a nationalist agenda that is beneficial for Quebec. With this new nationalist agenda, I hope that Quebec can reconcile both pride and prosperity. Without prosperity, pride has no means and without pride, prosperity is meaningless. We must incorporate both prosperity and pride in a new nationalist agenda focused on results and adapted to today s challenges. I propose nothing less than to open the door onto a promising future for Quebec. François Legault

5 INTRODUCTION A NATIONAL AGENDA FOR EVERYONE No one can deny that Quebec is a nation endowed with a particular history, culture and territory. Quebec has its own identity, and a common language in which we all take pride. Along with other Francophone communities across Canada, Quebec is central to the French presence in North America. Quebec must be able to fulfill the responsibilities arising from this fact, particularly to defend the interests of the Quebec nation and to promote its identity. A large majority of Quebecers feel a deep loyalty to Quebec. Daniel Johnson, Sr., called this loyalty Quebec first ( Québec d abord ). It symbolizes a deep and powerful feeling that we must both acknowledge and respect. However, even with this deep loyalty, Quebecers have chosen, on two separate occasions, to remain in Canada. It is clear that Quebecers aren t interested in voting on this issue again. We must respect their desire, and ensure that Quebec becomes a constructive partner within the Canadian federation. The CAQ is therefore advocating an active role for the Quebec government in Canadian intergovernmental relations. This position is without ulterior motives or hidden agendas. Quebec s economic recovery is also an integral part of our plan, which will benefit our partners elsewhere in Canada. We want to take consistent action and we want results, and this means promoting the interests of Quebec and achieving true gains. More Powers for Quebec A majority of the Quebec population would like our nation to have better recognition and greater political and economic autonomy within Canada. The CAQ s policies are fully in line with this desire, which has deep roots in Quebec s history.

6 The first attempts at reform of the federation with the goal of increasing Quebec s powers date back to the origins of the Confederation and the political struggles of Honoré Mercier. The first politician in Quebec to take up the cause of provincial autonomy, Mercier was particularly opposed to the federal government s claimed legal authority over the provincial legislatures. Quebec made its biggest political gains in the 1960s, when the major political parties at the time the Liberal Party and the Union Nationale shared a platform to reinforce Quebec s position in Canada. By making autonomy (as opposed to independence) a key component of its political agenda, the CAQ has taken up the mantle of this historical legacy: To make the defence of Quebec s vital interests an absolute priority. By calling upon nationalists to come together around common goals, our party has given this agenda its best chances for success. A Progressive and Pragmatic Process The CAQ s national agenda clearly stands out from the other options on the table regarding Quebec s future. First, through its main goal, which is to increase Quebec s autonomy and powers within Canada. Second, through its desire to bring all Quebecers together, in clear contrast to the agendas of independence or the status quo, which seek to divide them. Furthermore, the CAQ s approach is resolutely pragmatic, as the ultimate goals are to achieve concrete results that let Quebecers assert their identity through greater powers over language and immigration; to obtain greater fiscal independence; to develop the economy through new levers and implement a social project that they can call their own; and finally, to obtain full constitutional recognition, along with guarantees regarding Quebec s weight within federal institutions.

7 With a focus on a strategy that is both proactive and realistic, the CAQ intends to press for changes that have a real chance of becoming a reality. Let s be clear, the path to major constitutional reform, particularly reform that needs unanimous approval from the provinces, is not the only viable option. In fact, these reforms should not be the starting point, but rather the end result, of a process to renew the partnership that unites Quebec with the rest of Canada. Instead, Quebec must adopt a flexible approach that promotes bilateral constitutional compromises with the federal government, and the negotiation of administrative agreements, some of which will be legal in nature. Overall, the CAQ has put a great deal of thought into a progressive approach that is adapted to today s context. There are many paths towards progress, and none will be neglected in order to build a stronger Quebec within the Canadian federation. 1. INCREASED POWER OVER LANGUAGE AND IMMIGRATION It has often been said that Quebec is a distinct society because of its language, culture, history and identity. As such, the Quebec government has unique obligations and responsibilities of promotion and protection. Robert Bourassa expressed this as Quebec s cultural autonomy. In efforts to maintain this tradition and the broad consensus on this issue, the CAQ wants to reinforce Quebec s powers in the areas of language and immigration. Autonomy in these areas, and in the area of culture, is a priority and a necessity, if Quebec is to thrive as a nation. Language and Culture In concrete terms, reinforcing Quebec s independence over language should lead to the application of Bill 101 to federally chartered institutions. Also, Quebec s desire to be in the driver s seat of its

8 cultural development, should translate into control over funding that federal institutions dedicate to the cultural sector. Quebec must play a full role in promoting its cultural goods, especially on the international stage and in the digital universe. Quebec also needs a new momentum to promote the French language, specifically to improve the quality of French-language education, increase the use of French in the labor market, and better integrate immigrants into Quebec s society. That being said, while French is the common language of Quebec, it is not its only language, and linguistic minorities live on its territory. All efforts to promote the French language must respect our long tradition of tolerance and respect, particularly towards the historical English minority, which has particular rights that the CAQ in no way intends to challenge. Immigration The CAQ believes that the Government of Quebec should have sole jurisdiction in choosing the immigrants who settle on its territory. Currently, the provincial government selects just under 70%, the rest is chosen by the federal government. For our integration strategy to be truly effective, Quebec must be able to choose all of its immigrants (except for refugees) based on its own criteria, its own interests and its own conditions. This includes authority over family reunification. Having full powers over immigrant selection will give us full control over our demographic development. This will promote and protect the French language, and help us better plan resources to support, train and integrate newcomers. The CAQ also intends to put the historical Francophone majority back into the heart of the integration process. Although we readily recognize the growing diversity of our society, we also believe that the only viable long term policy is to encourage the integration of newcomers into Quebec s society. The CAQ is steadfast, integration is not only a right; it is equally a duty.

9 Quebec has a 400-year-old history. We share that history with other Francophone communities across Canada. From our early beginnings and through the Quiet Revolution, our unique values, such as the equality between men and women, have guided us. It is within this French-speaking, dynamic, and modern society that new immigrants are asked to join us and enrich us through their talent and experience. We ask that they share our core values. 2. INCREASED FISCAL INDEPENDENCE Fiscal independence represents the foundation of the powers of the Quebec state and the ability of the Quebec people to truly be masters in their own home. This battle has been taken up by various Quebec premiers, since the end of World War II until just recently, as the current Liberal government seems to have given up on this front. However, the battle for fiscal equity in Canada is far from won. The fiscal imbalance between the provinces and the federal government is still very real, especially due to the heavy burden of health care expenses. Tax Points The solution to this problem is an increased freedom in the area of taxation, controlled by the federal government, which must transfer a part of its tax revenue to the provinces. This new revenue would allow Quebec to exercise its exclusive powers and new responsibilities, while ensuring stable and adequate funding for public services; particularly in health and education. In the meantime, we need to ensure that Quebec is no longer at the mercy of sudden changes in Ottawa s budgetary policies, as is currently the case for federal transfer payments for health care funding. To ensure that Quebec s powers are upheld and respected, the CAQ also wants a framework that limits the federal government s power, to spend in areas over which the provinces

10 have exclusive power, and that grants the provinces the right to full financial compensation without conditions if they decide to withdraw from federal initiatives. Zero Equalization We can t talk about increased fiscal independence without raising the issue of equalization, as Quebec receives $9.3 billion from the federal government through this program. Over the years, this program has evolved and its parameters have been modified sometimes unilaterally by Ottawa, which has made it difficult for Quebec to ensure stable and predictable funding for public services. Given this fact, the CAQ believes that, beyond a review of the equalization formula, Quebec s long-term goal must be to no longer receive transfer payments. This goal must be achieved through Quebec s economic recovery, and an increase in its collective wealth. Ceasing to be dependent on equalization will give Quebec both a renewed pride and the means to fulfill its ambitions. Single Tax Return Quebec should have a single tax return for both levels of government. The province has an agreement to administer both federal and provincial consumption taxes, and this must extend to income taxes for businesses and individuals. In addition to simplifying the lives of Quebec s taxpayers, this would also generate substantial administrative savings. 3. NEW DRIVERS OF PROSPERITY Quebec s level of collective wealth is below that of Ontario and the rest of Canada. It is urgent that we eliminate these gaps. This goal must become THE priority of the Government of Quebec, as only a strong economy will allow us to generate enough wealth to improve

11 our population s quality of life, maintain the social safety net, and bring the tax burden down to reasonable levels. Only a prosperous Quebec can fully exercise its independence to promote and defend its interests in Canada. The Saint Lawrence Project To achieve this economic goal, the CAQ has proposed an agenda to give Quebec the ability to execute large-scale economic development in the coming years. The goal of this vast economic and social development plan, called the Saint Lawrence Project, is to end Quebec s economic decline by investing in education and innovation. The ultimate goal is to achieve parity with the average wealth level in Canada. While innovation is at the core of the Saint Lawrence Project, we must acknowledge that Quebec is not on an equal playing field. It is an admitted and documented fact that there has been a constant imbalance in Ottawa s investment in research and development in Ontario, compared to its investment in Quebec. Generating of thousands of high-level jobs, the federal policies that to support scientific research are consistently not in Quebec s favor. This situation must be corrected once and for all. Furthermore, the development of the St. Lawrence Seaway s full potential will arise through the control of significant economic levers, particularly in terms of developing, maintaining and improving port infrastructure along our great river. Infrastructure Infrastructure deterioration is a major problem in Quebec. Many buildings are in an advanced state of disrepair, and require major investment. This is the case for the treatment facilities for wastewater discharged into the St. Lawrence River. Quebec must therefore decide which infrastructure should be a priority. This implies a block transfer of budgets from the New Building Canada Fund instead of through multiple administrative agreements.

12 Interprovincial Trade Canada has negotiated and signed vast free trade agreements to reduce trade obstacles between nations. Quebec s businesses would benefit if a freer circulation of goods, services, capital and labour within Canada itself became a priority. More than ever, we need a true free trade within Canada as a whole, to have better access to the markets of our primary economic partners : the Canadian provinces. A strong Quebec with a prosperous economy would be at the forefront of this new vision of Canadian interprovincial trade. Sustainable Development Energy development and the implementation of consistent environmental regulations, are the core components of an integrated sustainable development policy. However, there is much overlap and duplication between the federal and provincial government in these sectors, which has led to inefficiencies. The result has been higher costs, increased delays, and a lack of consistency in the regulations and policies in place. We must put an end to this waste of resources, and give Quebec the tools it needs to create a sustainable development policy that meets our needs and reflects our values. 4. RECOGNITION OF QUEBEC The CAQ does not recognize the political legitimacy of the 1982 unilateral patriation of the Constitution, and believes that Quebec s specific condition within Canada remains unrecognized. A new agreement between Quebec and Canada should therefore culminate in the full constitutional recognition of Quebec as a nation. This recognition would also involve guarantees as to Quebec s full weight in federal institutions. These guarantees must be reflected not only in the House of Commons but also within the legal system.

13 Appointment of Judges to the Supreme Court In this context, it is unacceptable for unilingual judges to be appointed to the Supreme Court. It should be noted that this body is the court of final appeal for Quebec cases. While we should be glad that the Supreme Court Act now requires three of the court s judges to come from Quebec, it would only make sense, in a true federalist spirit, for Quebec to be formally involved in their selection. Right of Veto We must also protect Quebec s independence and weigh in shared institutions for future generations, by re-establishing a right of veto to protect Quebec s powers and national character. The National Assembly must also be the primary choice for the attribution of residual powers. Imperial Legacy The shared institutions and procedures of Canada s executive federalism must be reformed so that we can rid ourselves of an outdated legacy. For example, a non-elected senate stacked with partisan friends has no place in a modern democracy. When the opportunity arises, this archaic institution, along with the role of lieutenant governor, should be abolished or reformed to ensure better representation of Quebec s interests. Finally, the CAQ believes that Ottawa should not be the sole jurisdiction for calling a meeting of all provincial premiers.

14 THE CAQ S NEW NATIONALIST AGENDA SUMMARY LEGISLATION ADMINISTRATIVE AGREEMENTS BILATERAL CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS These proposals should be tabled by the Government of Quebec or voted on by the National Assembly. These proposals should be subject to an agreement with the Government of Canada. These proposals require a constitutional accord with the Government of Canada. Major effort to promote the French language, particularly to improve the quality of French-language education, increase the use of French in the labor market, and better integrate immigrants into Quebec society. Saint Lawrence Project : End Quebec s economic decline and achieve parity with the average level of wealth in Canada by investing in education and innovation. Quebec Supreme Court judges appointed on a motion by the National Assembly. Tax points: Transfer to the provinces of part of the federal government s tax revenue. Federal transfers to reflect the aging of the population. Single tax return. Elimination of imbalance in Ottawa s R&D investment. Block transfer of funds for infrastructure. Transfer of federal budgets for culture. Interprovincial free trade. Bill 101 applied to federally chartered institutions. More power to Quebec in terms of language, immigration and culture. Control of port infrastructure along the St. Lawrence River. Borders of the Nord-du- Québec region.

15 MULTILATERAL CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS CONSENSUS These proposals require a constitutional accord with the Government of Canada and a minimum of 7 out of 10 provinces representing at least 50 % of the Canadian population (the 7/50 rule ). These proposals require a constitutional accord with the Government of Canada and all provinces. Full constitutional recognition of Quebec as a nation. Energy development and environmental regulation. Framework for federal power to spend in areas of provincial authority. Mandatory bilingualism for Supreme Court judges. Right of veto for Quebec on constitutional amendments. Abolition or reform of senate. Abolition of the role of lieutenant governor.

16 CONCLUSION A NEW RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN QUEBEC AND CANADA The CAQ is calling for a new agenda for Quebec nationalists. This agenda involves renewing our relations with Canada, and is rooted in a renewed good faith that will drive our relationship with our Canadian partners. This agenda should give Quebec more power and autonomy within the Canadian federation. Ultimately, it should result in the constitutional recognition of Quebec as a nation. As a resolutely pragmatic agenda, the CAQ s nationalism aims, above all, to achieve concrete results that will help Quebecers assert their identity, develop their economy, and pursue a collective agenda they can call their own, while laying the foundation for a lasting reconciliation with the rest of Canada. Quebec cannot hope to make any gains with the Liberal party, its lack of ambition and weak agenda, nor can it do so with the PQ, which stubbornly continues to push an option that Quebecers have clearly rejected. Compared to the agendas of its opponents, the modern nationalism of the CAQ has a much greater chance of helping Quebec make measureable gains. We are convinced that this agenda reflects the aspirations of the vast majority of the population because this vision is based on a strategy that is both pragmatic and realistic. The CAQ wants to build upon the unity of Quebecers; to make a strong case for changes that have a real chance of becoming a reality, and that will benefit Quebec. The CAQ s agenda is based on one goal: To establish a new relationship between Quebec and Canada that benefits everyone. This exciting and practical agenda opens the door to a promising future for Quebec.

17

18 The CAQ is calling for a new agenda for Quebec s nationalists. This agenda involves renewing our relations with Canada and is rooted in a new mindset that will drive our relationship with our partners. This agenda should strives to give Quebec more power and autonomy within the Canadian federation. Ultimately, it should result in the constitutional recognition of Quebec as a nation. - François Legault Imprimerie Maxime, Martin Labrie, Official agent