Quebec’s new premier promised to struggle “tooth and nail” to defend the usage of the however clause as she met with Prime Minister Mark Carney in Ottawa on Friday.
Christine Fréchette stated the clause, which permits governments to override sections of the Canadian Constitution of Rights and Freedoms, should not be touched.
“It’s an vital software for Quebec, for our nation,” she stated forward of the assembly.
Quebec has made use of the clause lately to defend a number of items of laws from courtroom challenges, together with its secularism regulation that bans sure public servants from carrying spiritual symbols at work.
Fréchette’s response got here after federal Justice Minister Sean Fraser expressed concern over provinces use of the however clause and advised it needs to be regulated.
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Carney was all smiles forward of his assembly with Fréchette, which occurred lower than 48 hours after the 55-year-old was sworn in as Quebec premier.
She assumed the province’s high job after successful the Coalition Avenir Québec management race following François Legault’s determination to resign.
Carney stated their dialogue would come with immigration, housing and main tasks.
“You come right here with the sunny climate, a powerful mandate and a full agenda,” Carney instructed her.
Fréchette famous that she’s labored with the federal authorities earlier than, particularly in her former position as Quebec immigration minister.
“I’d say I’ve a historical past of working with and collaborating with the federal authorities,” she stated, including that their discussions needed to occur with respect for the Quebec nation and its areas of jurisdiction.
With lower than six months to the provincial election, Fréchette is trying to display her model of nationalism can safe beneficial properties from Ottawa.
Amongst Quebec’s calls for from the federal authorities is a extra equitable distribution of asylum seekers throughout the nation.
The province additionally desires the Carney authorities to intervene and assist guarantee a large hydroelectric deal is finalized with Newfoundland and Labrador.
On Friday, Fréchette stated she additionally hopes to safe profitable defence contracts for the province, with Carney agreeing that Quebec experience is required.
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