Quebec Separatists Release Comprehensive Book Outlining Plans for Independent State
The Parti Québécois (PQ) has released a comprehensive 524-page book titled 'Livre bleu' outlining what an independent Quebec could look like. The book, also known as the blue book, was published in June and marks a significant milestone for the separatist party.
According to Paul St-Pierre Plamondon, the PQ leader, the book is not meant to be hijacked by American politics or the unpredictability of President Donald Trump. However, the party's decision to release the document may indicate that they are serious about secession despite their decision to put off a provincial referendum on independence.
Evelyne Brie, an assistant professor of political science at Université de Montréal, believes the book is part of St-Pierre Plamondon's strategy to provide information and avoid having his campaign derailed by questions raised in this fall's election. She notes that the PQ will mobilize keen sovereigntists and potentially sway those on the fence.
The book rebuts claims that an independent Quebec would be economically unviable, arguing that it could be a wealthy nation like Scandinavian countries. It suggests that Quebec's economy has been hurt by using the Canadian currency and proposes creating its own national currency and central bank.