Key takeaways for Quebec from the French-language debate
CBC
Missed last night's debate? While the Habs were in the midst of securing a playoff spot, the four federal leaders drew clear lines on issues related to Quebec.
The French-language debate was a first chance to see Liberal Leader Mark Carney face off against Conservative Leadert Pierre Poilievre, NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh and Bloc Québécois Leader Yves-François Blanchet.
While CBC News has a full breakdown, and a look at some of the notable moments at the national level, here are four takeaways particularly relevant to Quebec voters.
The question of Quebec's right to legislate French-language protections — and its impact on English and Indigenous communities — came up during the debate.
Asked whether Quebec has the right to use the notwithstanding clause to block its language law, Bill 96, from legal challenges, Poilievre said Quebec "must defend French" and he will too.
"I will continue to support laws and policies that allow Quebec and the federal government to protect the French language all across Canada," he said.
Carney, for his part, said he's concerned about the pre-emptive use of the notwithstanding clause, pointing out that it has also been used in other provinces.
"The question is, do we have rights and freedoms here in Canada? Are we equal?" Carney asked, then added, "We need to consider the right balance."
He said the "use of the notwithstanding clause in a pre-emptive way is a question for the Supreme Court."
Blanchet said such a challenge amounts to using Quebec taxpayer money to challenge Quebec's own legislation at Canada's top court. Carney pointed out that Quebec is facing legal challenges from within the province, which is true.
The four leaders also weighed in on how to best handle immigration, and drew clear lines in particular on asylum seekers.
Quebec Premier François Legault has called for cuts to immigration levels and greater powers, even after stricter limits were imposed last fall.
During the debate, Poilievre accused the Liberals of allowing the system to "spiral out of control," with the number of international students and temporary foreign workers on the rise in recent years.
Carney tried to distance himself from the past government's handling of the file, saying the "system isn't working."
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