The Bloc Québécois is prepared to engage in negotiations with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government in exchange for support during confidence votes now that the Liberal government’s confidence and supply agreement with the NDP has concluded.
The Quebec-based Bloc emphasized that this support will come at a cost and has outlined a list of demands led by sovereigntist party leader Yves-François Blanchet.
Speaking ahead of the party caucus retreat in the Outaouais region, Bloc House Leader Alain Therrien expressed satisfaction in regaining the balance of power. He mentioned, “Our goals remain unchanged, but the path to achieving them will be smoother. We will negotiate for gains for Quebec, and our improved balance of power is evident.”
With the dissolution of the confidence and supply agreement between the Liberals and the NDP, the Bloc sees an opportunity as the Liberals are now a true minority government. While the Conservatives are pushing for multiple confidence votes to trigger an election, the Bloc’s strategy is to leverage their newfound influence to secure gains for Quebec.
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A Bloc strategist, speaking anonymously, indicated that the NDP has effectively handed over the balance of power to the Bloc. Anticipating a Conservative majority government led by Poilievre in the upcoming election, the Bloc aims to secure gains in Quebec and potentially shift seats from the Liberals.
According to a source, Quebec’s influence in the election outcome may be limited as the Conservatives maintain a significant lead across Canada, excluding Quebec. This underscores the importance for the Bloc to strengthen its position within the province.
Political scientist Geneviève Tellier noted that the Bloc’s relevance is more pronounced in a minority government scenario. With the dissolution of the agreement with the NDP, the Bloc sees an opportunity to assert its demands and influence government policies.
Among the Bloc’s priorities is obtaining royal recommendation for Bill C-319 to equalize pensions for seniors aged 65 to 74 with those aged 75 and over. They also seek increased powers for Quebec in immigration matters and the recovery of owed funds.
Therrien emphasized that these demands are achievable and will be a focal point in negotiations. Additionally, the Bloc aims to reduce funding for oil companies, secure more health-care funds for provinces, and address federal encroachment on provincial jurisdictions.
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