In his first public appearance this year, François Legault said he wanted to refocus on his priorities and avoid “distractions.”
Quebec’s prime minister and leader of the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) had a difficult 2023. On Wednesday, he told his caucus members in Sherbrooke that he wanted to go back to basics.
Legault listed five priorities: education, health, economy, environment and Quebec identity. He also acknowledged that there is still a lot of work to be done in housing construction.
He promoted his new accelerated construction training program and encouraged Quebecers to enroll. He said Hydro-Québec alone needed 35,000 more people.
Furthermore, he added: “It is not about privatizing and denying the legacy of René Lévesque, we must say that very clearly.” For a few weeks now, the CAQ has been defending its intention to privatize Hydro-Québec.
“In 2024, particularly in the session that begins, we really want to refocus to be able to focus on these five priorities,” the premier said.
“We wish for a good political year with, how shall I put it, fewer distractions than in 2023,” he added. The CAQ caucus lasts until Thursday. Parliament meets again next Tuesday.
– This report by The Canadian Press was first published in French on Jan. 24, 2024.
“Coffeeaholic. Lifelong alcohol fanatic. Typical travel expert. Prone to fits of apathy. Internet trailblazer.”