Bloc platform emphasizes measures to counter tariffs targeting Quebec industry
The Bloc Québécois has put forth a platform that calls for significant changes to the way free trade agreements are handled in Canada. One of the key proposals is to require the federal government to seek approval from the House of Commons before ratifying any trade deal. This move is in response to the threats posed by President Donald Trump’s tariffs, which have specifically targeted Quebec industries like aluminum and aerospace.
Bloc Québécois Leader Yves-François Blanchet emphasized the importance of democratic processes in making decisions of such magnitude. He stated that any treaty should be supported and voted on in parliament to ensure accountability and transparency in the decision-making process.
In addition to the call for parliamentary approval of trade agreements, the Bloc Québécois platform includes other key policy proposals. The party aims to have a Quebec delegation represent the province’s interests in trade negotiations and is pushing for the creation of a federal charter on softwood to combat illegal American tariffs on the forestry industry.
Furthermore, the Bloc Québécois is advocating for increased diversification of markets for fisheries, reducing reliance on exports to the United States. The party also wants to leverage federal employee cuts in the Trump administration to recruit American scientific talent in Quebec companies.
On the military procurement front, the Bloc Québécois is pushing for increased military spending to meet NATO goals and is calling for the acquisition of the source code for F-35 fighter jets or the termination of the contract.
The platform also touches on the issue of Quebec sovereignty, with a mention of a referendum on the topic. The party aims to prepare Quebec and Canada’s diplomatic corps for the possibility of such an eventuality.
In terms of housing policy, the Bloc Québécois wants to combat speculation in the real estate market by implementing measures to discourage property flipping. The party also plans to provide substantial federal assistance to first-time homebuyers purchasing properties of reasonable value.
On healthcare, the Bloc Québécois is committed to securing federal funding for 35% of the province’s healthcare costs and transferring oversight of the public dental care program to Quebec. The party also aims to increase old age pension benefits for individuals aged 65 to 74 by 10%.
Culturally, the Bloc Québécois supports Quebec’s secularism legislation and plans to ban the wearing of religious symbols by federal employees working in the province. The party also wants to replace the daily prayer in the House of Commons with a moment of reflection and require Canadian citizens being sworn in Quebec to do so in French.
Overall, the Bloc Québécois platform presents a series of bold policy proposals aimed at protecting Quebec’s interests and promoting sovereignty. The party’s focus on democratic processes, economic diversification, and cultural identity sets it apart as a strong advocate for Quebec’s unique position within Canada.
