The results of Tuesday’s provincial election in Quebec was a hot topic across the Maritimes today.
Nova Scotia Premier Darrell Dexter welcomed Parti Quebecois leader Pauline Marois, saying he looks forward to working with her.
“We have a lot of things that are of common interest, whether it’s infrastructure funding or employment insurance or immigration,” says Dexter.
The Parti Quebecois return to power with a minority government, receiving nearly 32 per cent of the vote.
Université de Moncton political scientist Jean-Francois Caron says fears of the “r” word may be premature.
“There was a poll last week that said that the movement was only at 28 per cent if there was a referendum right now. So it is highly unlikely,” says Caron.
Wayne Hunt, a political science professor at Mount Allison University, says to keep an eye on the federal relationship.
“I think, in the first few weeks, we are going to see some interesting negotiations taking place between her and Harper,” says Hunt.
On the streets, separation was on the minds of many Maritimers.
“I don’t think the PQ victory is a vote for separatism, I think it is more a vote against the Liberal government,” says resident Allan Gates.
“As long as the country is more unified in a sense, then I am fine with the PQ being in power,” says resident Shaun Huberts.
Sebastien Lord, a member of New Brunswick’s Youth Francophone Federation, says student unrest over tuition fees played a part in the vote.
“The important part for us is to see the youth engaged in the process,” says Lord. “Seeing the youth not being afraid of going out and telling their ideas to the world, to the politicians and to their peers also.”
With files from CTV Atlantic's David Bell
