PQ Leader Advocates for Flexible Referendum Timing Amid Economic Concerns
Parti Québécois Leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon reiterated on Tuesday that his party remains committed to holding an independence referendum within a first mandate if elected in the October general election. However, he emphasized that the exact timing must remain adjustable to reflect economic realities, particularly concerns related to U.S. President Donald Trump's policies.
Economic Fears Influence Political Strategy
St-Pierre Plamondon explained that during door-to-door canvassing in the Chicoutimi byelection campaign, voters expressed significant worries about economic volatility and American policy instability. The Saguenay—Lac St-Jean region, heavily dependent on aluminum and steel exports, has already felt the impact of U.S. tariffs, making economic security a paramount concern for residents.
"I think we need to remain flexible and not commit ahead in terms of conditions, or in terms of date, whether it be the last year or the first year," St-Pierre Plamondon told reporters at a legislature news conference. "We need to be flexible and take reasoned decisions when you know the facts. In the space of four years, many variables will have evolved."
Potential Delay Until 2028
The PQ leader suggested that a PQ government might wait until the end of Trump's presidential term in 2028 before initiating a referendum. With the Quebec election scheduled for October 2026, this would place the potential referendum within the latter part of a first PQ mandate.
"I think it is reasonable to think that within a window of four years there will be a moment to go to the polls in a referendum and that going to the polls implies no risk," St-Pierre Plamondon stated, attempting to reassure voters about the party's approach.
Political Critics Accuse Backpedaling
The comments immediately drew criticism from political opponents who accused St-Pierre Plamondon of watering down his original referendum commitment.
Quebec Conservative Leader Éric Duhaime responded sharply: "I think there's a message from voters. People don't want to be sent into a wall with a third losing referendum. They want us to talk about real issues."
Liberal Leader Charles Milliard characterized the statement as "a political pirouette" and reminded voters that "the first article of the PQ's political platform is the separation of Quebec."
Bernard Drainville, a candidate for Coalition Avenir Québec leadership, accused St-Pierre Plamondon of creating uncertainty: "He is adding to the uncertainty by saying, 'elect me and there might be a referendum or maybe no.' It will depend on my mood. It's irresponsible."
Defending the Position
St-Pierre Plamondon defended his stance, insisting he hasn't changed his views and has consistently discussed flexible referendum timing after recent byelections. He argued that opponents are using fear tactics because they lack substantive arguments for Quebec remaining in Canada.
"Look at what's happening in Alberta," he noted, referencing Alberta's planned referendum on various issues. "Are they feeling threatened? Introducing fear has been a technique to avoid debating the essential issue here."
The PQ leader concluded with reassurance: "Four years is a long time. Never, never will the PQ put in peril the economic security or security in general of Quebecers."
