West Quebecers quiz Chatel on vets, trade, and Law 96
Bonnie James
Local Journalism Initiative
Published in the Pontiac Journal on March 12, 2025.
SHAWVILLE – “Does your horse speak French or English?” David Gillespie quipped at the West Quebecers’ 5 à 7 with Pontiac MP Sophie Chatel on February 27, highlighting a discussion on the lack of veterinarians in the region.
A resident asked if the federal government was aware of the shortage. Chatel said discussions are underway to ease regulations preventing out-of-province veterinarians
from providing services to anglophones in Quebec. She emphasized that while Quebec businesses should offer service in French, out-of-province businesses should still be able to serve Quebec residents.
MRC Pontiac Warden Jane Toller noted that three students from the region are in veterinary school and plan to return to practice.
Hosted by the Regional Association of West Quebecers (RAWQ) at the Little Red Wagon Winery, the event allowed residents to ask Chatel about issues affecting English-speaking communities.
Neil Woodman questioned Chatel’s stance on Law 96, the CAQ’s expansion of the French language charter. “It shouldn’t exist,” Chatel said. “There’s enough love in the heart of the nation for both English and French. The CAQ legislation aims to win votes and divide us.”
She noted that Quebec’s use of the notwithstanding clause in Laws 21 and 96 is before the Supreme Court of Canada. On January 23, the court agreed to hear the Law 21 case, and Chatel said a Liberal government would intervene to defend the Charter of Rights.
Chatel argued that addressing the decline of French requires a targeted approach in areas like Montreal, while considering the realities of regions such as the Pontiac.
“Instead of blaming anglophones, give them resources to learn the language,” she said. “Use the carrot, not the stick.”
Chris Judd said francophones who don’t learn English are at a disadvantage because they “lock themselves into the province” and miss out on opportunities.
Judd also raised concerns about interprovincial trade barriers, noting that beef slaughtered in Ontario can’t be sold in Quebec and Quebec wine can’t be sold in Ontario. Chatel said the federal government is working with premiers to revise the Canadian Free Trade Agreement, removing unnecessary exceptions that hinder trade.
“Removing interprovincial trade barriers unleashes economic potential for local
entrepreneurs,” she said. Eleven-year-old Mason Holmes asked Chatel about cell phone coverage in the Pontiac.
Chatel responded that because cellular providers are private companies, the federal government has not yet intervened.
She said the government has recognized high-speed internet for homes and businesses as an essential service and that improving cell phone coverage is the next priority. She explained that the government plans to launch its own satellite to ensure Canadian autonomy in providing satellite cellular services. Calling it an “ongoing and ambitious project,” Chatel said it is “the way to resolve the Swiss cheese problem,” referring to gaps in cellular coverage.
Near the end of the event, Woodman asked when the federal election might be called if Mark Carney becomes Liberal leader. Chatel said she was preparing for an election as early as March 10, saying she would prefer to “get it over with and focus on the real issues.”
She stressed the need for unity. “It’s not the time for partisanship. One Canada, one voice,” she said.
In closing, Chatel warned of threats to Canadian sovereignty posed by U.S. President Donald Trump. “Since World War II, there has never been a moment like this,” she said. “Trump wants Canada to become the 51st state. He envisions an autonomous U.S. economy, but he can’t do it without Canada’s natural resources.”
She urged Canadians to elect leaders who will stand up for the country. “This is a crucial time in our history, and we only have one chance.”
