All leaders were asked during the French-language debate where they stand on giving Quebec more powers over immigration than it already has under its unique arrangement with Canada’s federal government.
All six leaders said they are open to speaking with Legault, but not all were willing to commit to greater autonomy for Quebec over immigration.
The CAQ leader has kept to the sidelines of the current federal election campaign but has made clear his hope that each party will agree to his demands on immigration.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said his Liberal government has worked on granting Quebec more control over immigration since coming to power in 2015 and indicated he was in favour of giving Quebec additional powers. Trudeau acknowledged Quebec’s immigration rights and said they are necessary for protecting the province’s unique French identity and language.
Conservative Party Andrew Scheer, said he was also prepared to work with Legault to give Quebec more autonomy on immigration.
