The National Assembly in Quebec City is back in action, focusing on pressing economic issues and potential tariffs from the U.S.
Quebec City: The National Assembly is back in session after the holiday break. Lawmakers are diving into a winter session that’s likely to be all about economic challenges, especially with the U.S. looming large.
With Donald Trump back in the White House, everyone’s buzzing about his tariff threats against Canada. Last week, during pre-session meetings, this topic was front and center.
Premier François Legault is already thinking about how to respond. He’s planning trips to Washington to discuss these issues with other provincial leaders.
Trump’s been talking about slapping a 25% tariff on Canadian imports, which Legault says could put 100,000 jobs in Quebec at risk. He’s committed to supporting Quebecers through this “Trump crisis,” even if it means delaying a balanced budget.
But it’s not just about tariffs. Legault also has to handle the fallout from cuts in health and education. Plus, he’s got tough negotiations ahead with doctors to renew their contracts.
And let’s not forget about the controversial Bill 83. This one, pushed by Health Minister Christian Dubé, aims to require new doctors to work in the public sector for five years.
On top of that, Sonia LeBel, the President of the Treasury Board, is looking to shake up how public sector unions negotiate.
Meanwhile, the Education and Secularism Ministers are considering tightening the law on state secularism. Roberge even hinted at a new bill focused on integrating into the Quebec nation.
Several government bills are on the table, including one that would require manufacturers to sell zero-emission heavy vehicles. There’s also a bill aimed at curbing foreign land purchases.
This Thursday, a special commission will continue its public consultations on young people’s screen time, with a final report due in May.
Legault’s Coalition Avenir Québec is currently trailing in the polls behind the Parti Québécois. He has until March 5 to call a byelection in Terrebonne, which has been vacant since Pierre Fitzgibbon left last September.
According to the poll aggregator Qc125, the PQ has a strong chance of winning that byelection.
–This report by La Presse Canadienne was translated by CityNews
