Anglos and separatism in Parizeau's convention speech
Former Quebec Premier Jacques Parizeau spoke to around 1000 Option National supporters Saturday afternoon about his views of current day separatism.
"There would no longer be any constitutional requirements for English schools,” Parizeau said in a hypothetical statement, should Quebec eventually separate. “What do we do when we get rid of the Supreme Court of Canada? It’s all gone.”
Before Quebec becomes its own country, it takes a lot of work, the former Premier said. Work he suggested the current Marois government hasn’t done yet.
“If you don’t want to use public funds to promote Quebec independence,” Parizeau asked, “then why are you here?”
The crowd laughed and cheered.
“If we are elected to make Quebec a separate country, we’re not going to stay neutral on the governance. Priorities must be redirected towards the goals we have,” he says.
Back during the 1995 referendum, West Island residents sought to stay separate from an independent Quebec.
“We have people in the West Island that asked for the right of secession, if Quebec becomes an independent country,” Parizeau said to the crowd. “It is true, from a legal standpoint, they don’t have the right to do that, it is not possible, and it’s been reaffirmed many times.”
He also said that in order to be a self-sufficient country, it takes the cooperation of other countries around the world, citing the importance of international relations. Efforts, he said, take years of work.
“Don’t be afraid,” Parizeau said to Optional National supporters. “Don’t be afraid of your dreams, don’t be afraid of the obstacles that will be thrown in your way.”
The full speech is available online, in French only.
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