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

By Canadian Press on January 25, 2026.

SAINT-HYACINTHE — Parti Québécois 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 Montérégie region of Québec, 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 The Canadian Press was first published on Jan. 25, 2026.

The Canadian Press