More than 400 Liberal activists gathered last Saturday in Victoriaville to discuss the revival of their party. We were there. We attended the debates and discussed with many of the people present.
Some have described a party torn between nationalists and federalists, a party that makes no room for Quebec nationalism. This description, which monopolized the headlines, in no way reflects the event in which we participated, especially since these positions, far from being contradictory, are complementary.
The Liberal Party of Quebec (PLQ) has always given priority to the defense of Quebec’s interests and that will not change.
The debates held at the General Council revealed a sincere and asserted desire to reconnect with Quebecers as well as a deep attachment to the Quebec nation, particularly to French which, for the Liberals, constitutes the cement of Quebec’s identity.
These convictions were clearly expressed during the general council, both by the interim leader Marc Tanguay and by myself as well as by the members of the reflection committee on the revival of the PLQ which is co-chaired by the member for Bourassa-Sauvé, Madwa-Nika Cadet, and André Pratte.
PHOTO JACQUES BOISSINOT, THE CANADIAN PRESS
André Pratte and MNA for Bourassa-Sauvé Madwa-Nika Cadet, co-chairs of the QLP reflection committee
What we saw over the weekend was not a divided party, but a party that discussed with lucidity, frankness and respect the means to be taken to regain the confidence of Quebeckers. The activists present were happy to meet again, enthusiastic to see that the party has taken measures aimed at revival, determined to push the wheel.
A sign of health
Political analysts have long criticized the PLQ for not holding debates during its events; now they are reproaching us for holding such debates! I don’t know of a more obvious sign of democratic vitality than a political party where activists can debate fundamental issues freely and serenely. In fact, it’s a sign of a healthy party.
The Quebec Liberals understood the message sent to them by voters during the election last fall.
Quebecers want us to do our homework; this is the task we have set ourselves, particularly from the point of view of the evolution of our values.
We know that this work is necessary, and that it will require a lot of effort. We are determined to carry it out.
This is why the recovery committee has undertaken consultations that will take it to all regions of Quebec. The committee wants to hear not only from current party activists, but also from those who say they no longer identify with it. Since the beginning of their work, the members of the committee have consulted the various bodies of the QLP, in particular the caucus, the former leaders (including three former prime ministers), experts from various fields, and a host of other people.
To those who dream of writing the epitaph of the PLQ, know that the party is still very much alive and determined to regain the confidence of Quebecers. Its militants are doing the work necessary to form, in 2026, the most credible alternative to the draft government of the CAQ.
The relaunch of the PLQ is now!