quebec Premier François Legault Pushes for Increased Defense Spending, Streamlined Approvals as Economic Strategy
BEAUHARNOIS, QC – Quebec Premier François Legault is signaling a significant shift in economic policy, advocating for Quebec-based companies like Bombardier, Davie, and CAE too capitalize on increased defense spending commitments from the European Union and Canada. The move, unthinkable just five years ago, represents a departure from previous priorities and a renewed emphasis on government intervention to drive economic growth.
Legault outlined a vision to accelerate projects and remove bureaucratic obstacles – including potentially shortening environmental review timelines with the Office of Public Hearings on the Environment (BAPE) from 18 months to six – to achieve rapid results. He assured that any streamlining would occur “without compromising on rigor.”
Though, the plan is already drawing criticism from environmental groups concerned about potentially weakened environmental protections, with observers noting a diminished focus on “environment” in Legault’s economic vision compared to his previous statements.
A key challenge to the plan is Quebec’s current labor shortage.While announcing the economic vision from a hydroelectric power station in Beauharnois, Legault did not address workforce availability. The government is together undertaking a “degreasing” of the public service, eliminating hundreds of positions.
Despite announcing a new annual immigration target of 45,000 permanent immigrants for the next four years – 15,000 fewer than the current level – Legault framed the adjustment as an effort to “optimise” rather than reduce immigration.
Facing a tighter timeline for re-election success, legault is aiming to demonstrate the continued value of government “intervention” in the Quebec economy, building on a first term impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
