PLQ National Gathering: Charles Milliard Champions “Integrity”
Charles Milliard has been appointed as the new leader of the Quebec Liberal Party (PLQ). He has emphasized “integrity” as a key principle for the party’s future. This shift comes as the PLQ seeks to move on from a crisis tied to his predecessor, Pablo Rodriguez. Approximately 600 party members gathered to celebrate Milliard’s leadership at the National Gathering held in Trois-Rivières.
Highlights from the National Gathering
During the event, former premiers Philippe Couillard and Daniel Johnson delivered speeches, while Jean Charest participated via video message. They all welcomed:
- A new generation of leadership.
- A strong commitment to ethical governance.
Milliard declared, “The renewal of the Quebec Liberal Party begins now!” He expressed his determination to closely monitor political opponents and win the upcoming 2026 elections. He urged party members to embrace a realistic perspective, acknowledging the challenges the party has faced recently.
Commitment to Integrity
Under Milliard’s leadership, the tenets of integrity, transparency, and accountability will guide the party. He stated, “A party aspiring to power must be irreproachable, as trust is earned, not demanded.” He acknowledged concerns over the ongoing investigations by the Permanent Anti-Corruption Unit (UPAC) and the Chief Electoral Officer regarding the previous leadership campaign.
Addressing Housing and Immigration Issues
Milliard introduced several key priorities during his speech. He aims to construct 100,000 housing units annually, focusing on homes, condos, and affordable housing. This ambitious goal was inspired by former Liberal leader Robert Bourassa’s promise to create 100,000 jobs. In terms of immigration, he advocates for protection for individuals affected by changes to the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ).
Political Strategy and Vision
Milliard described himself as a nationalist, regionalist, and federalist. He aims to assert Quebec’s identity while promoting its language and culture. He supports “asymmetrical federalism” and lays claim to the provincial jurisdiction, asserting that issues related to health and education belong to Quebec.
He critiqued the current government by stating that Quebec has lost its momentum since 2018. He directed his remarks at potential successors of François Legault from the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ), highlighting the need for stability amidst global uncertainties.
New Initiatives Under Milliard
Milliard’s proposed initiatives include:
- Enhancing home care services in health care.
- Prioritizing mental health care.
- Creating a public telemedicine platform available seven days a week.
- Reviewing the education system from preschool to university.
- Reducing the fiscal burden on small and medium-sized enterprises.
He also plans to empower local governments by granting them more control over regional issues, such as homelessness and infrastructure.
As the new leader of the PLQ, Charles Milliard’s focus on integrity and collaborative governance may help reshape the party’s future heading into the next electoral cycle.
