Quebec Liberals Condemn Government Response to Surge in School Violence as Poll Numbers plummet
Quebec’s Liberal opposition is sharply criticizing the governing Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) over its handling of escalating violence in schools,as a new poll reveals a dramatic drop in public support for Premier François Legault’s party. According to data recently released by a union, Quebec schools have reported a staggering 56,000 incidents of violence – encompassing physical, psychological, and sexual abuse – over the past three years.
The criticism comes as Legault prepares a cabinet reshuffle Wednesday afternoon, widely seen as an attempt to reverse the CAQ’s declining popularity. However, Liberal education critic Mme Cadet argues a change in leadership at the Ministry of Education won’t address the core issues, stating, “Even if there is a new Minister of Education, […] If he is not ready to make an 180 degrees on the guidelines that where led by the CAQ government, that will not change anything.” The Liberals contend the CAQ’s current approach is failing students and teachers, and a essential shift in strategy is needed.The union data highlights the strain on school staff, who are frequently called upon to intervene in violent situations. “So long that we will not work upstream in Quebec, in collaboration with the parents, we will not be able to get out of it,” said Pronovost, a union representative, emphasizing the need for preventative measures and parental involvement.
Adding to the pressure on the CAQ, a Pallas Data/News/QC125 poll published Monday places the party in fourth place, trailing the Parti Québécois, the Liberal party, and the Conservative Party – an unprecedented position. Mme Cadet further stated that Minister Drainville has “lost the confidence of the network,” but believes a ministerial change alone will be insufficient,noting,”Compressions,they have already been made. Chaos, it has already been strewn in the network.”
