Carney urges Quebec to prioritize economy over independence referendum

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney urged Quebec to prioritize its economic challenges over discussions about a potential independence referendum, following the Parti Québécois' return to power. The separatist party regained control on Monday, October 5, 2026, as supporters celebrated at their headquarters in Montreal. Parti Québécois Leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon watched the results come in alongside his family.

Carney's statement came during Question Period in the House of Commons on October 5, 2026. He emphasized the importance of addressing immediate economic issues rather than focusing on a referendum that might not occur for years. The prime minister's remarks highlight the ongoing tension between national unity and regional autonomy in Canada.

The Bozeman Daily Chronicle reported the developments, including images of Carney and Plamondon captured by photographers Graham Hughes and Justin Tang. The article also noted that the newspaper offers audio versions of articles using Instaread, though some words may be mispronounced.