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PQ leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon says QC referendum campaign is already underway

  • The Canadian Press

  • Canadian Press

  • January 25, 2026

Parti Quebecois leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon speaks at a press conference during the party's convention in Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec, on Friday, Jan. 23, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Christinne Muschi

SAINT-HYACINTHE -- Parti Quebecois Leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon says the referendum campaign for Quebec independence is already underway.

He told party members Sunday that Prime Minister Mark Carney triggered the federalist "No" campaign with recent remarks on the Plains of Abraham.

Speaking at a PQ convention in Saint-Hyacinthe, in the Monteregie region of Quebec, St-Pierre Plamondon rejected Carney's portrayal of the 1759 battle as the start of a partnership between two populations.

He said Quebec has survived as a distinct nation despite Canada, not because of it.

During a visit to Quebec City last week, Carney recently called for Canadian unity, describing the Plains of Abraham as symbolizing collaboration rather than domination.

St-Pierre Plamondon labelled the prime minister the leader of the "No" camp, drawing a standing ovation from delegates.

This report by was first published on Jan. 25, 2026.