Carney Urges Quebec to Focus on Economy Over Independence Talk

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney urged Quebec to prioritize economic challenges over discussions of independence, following the Parti Québécois' (PQ) return to power in the province. Carney emphasized the need for immediate action on affordable housing, infrastructure, and support for workers affected by U.S. President Donald Trump's tariffs, rather than waiting for a potential independence referendum years in the future.

Carney spoke with Quebec Premier-designate Paul St-Pierre Plamondon, discussing infrastructure funding and support for workers impacted by the U.S. trade war. St-Pierre Plamondon, who has pledged to hold another referendum on Quebec independence, stated he would wait until Trump is no longer in office. He reaffirmed his separatist ambitions in his victory speech, envisioning Quebec as an independent country.

Industry Minister Mélanie Joly echoed Carney's focus on economic pressures, noting the impact of the trade war on jobs in Quebec. The PQ won 59 seats in Monday's election, falling short of a majority in Quebec’s 127-member National Assembly. Joël Lightbound, Carney’s Quebec lieutenant, clarified that the election did not constitute a mandate for separation, emphasizing that a referendum would be necessary for such a decision.

The Quebec election comes ahead of Alberta's vote on October 19, where residents will decide whether to hold a referendum on separation from Canada. Political science professor Daniel Béland noted that support for Quebec independence remains around 30%, driven more by dissatisfaction with the previous government than increased sovereignty support.