CALGARY – The leader of the Parti Québécois, Paul St-Pierre Plamondon, has expressed openness to potential collaboration with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith if he wins the Quebec premiership in the upcoming election next year. He highlighted this sentiment during a speaking engagement at the University of Calgary's School of Public Policy, where he shared his perspectives on various provincial issues.
While St-Pierre Plamondon is not in favor of a pipeline project traversing Quebec, he acknowledged Smith's efforts in advocating for provincial autonomy. He pointed out that her demands for increased provincial rights and reduced federal intervention reflect a strong commitment to addressing the needs of her constituents in Alberta.
Moreover, St-Pierre Plamondon commented on the topic of federal financial transfers, asserting that Quebec would be better off if it could retain its $90 billion in contributions to Ottawa. He indicated that the province would prefer to avoid the complexities involved in receiving funds from other provinces that come with federal stipulations attached. This standpoint underscores a desire for greater financial independence and less dependence on federal policymaking.
The PQ leader emphasized that if he is elected premier, establishing cooperative relations with other provinces, particularly Alberta, would be a priority. He believes that working together could enhance the interests of both provinces, given their shared experiences in navigating the complexities of Canadian federalism.
This dialogue occurs against a backdrop of increasing discussions around provincial rights and autonomy across Canada, with St-Pierre Plamondon's remarks resonating in various political circles. His position suggests a growing recognition of the challenges faced by provinces in dealing with federal authority and funding mechanisms.
Overall, the implications of his thoughts on potential collaboration signal a willingness to engage with Alberta's leadership on mutual interests, despite the differences in their policies regarding natural resource development. The exchange of ideas and cooperation could lead to more robust provincial strategies moving forward.
This report was initially published on September 11, 2025, by The Canadian Press. Bill Graveland served as the reporting journalist, capturing the essence of the discussion and the perspectives articulated by St-Pierre Plamondon during his engagement at the university.
In summary, the insights provided by St-Pierre Plamondon reflect a broader narrative surrounding provincial governance, autonomy, and the importance of inter-provincial cooperation in addressing shared challenges and objectives.
