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Montreal, October 20, 1995
1995-083
Minister of Finance Asks Quebecers to Say No to Separation and to Participate in Genuine Progress and Change
Minister of Finance Paul Martin has asked Quebecers to say "No" to the backward steps represented by separation, and to participate instead in a revolution that is already underway, a revolution "that centers on making our federation more flexible, and building an effective form of cooperation among governments." Viewed from this stand point, a "No" vote means building on what was achieved by the Quiet Revolution, perpetuating the values of openness, drive, the forging of links and the broadening of horizons," the Minister added.
The Minister at the same time entreated his fellow citizens of Quebec to think carefully about what was at stake in Quebec separation and what the consequences would be. Referring again to the risks and costs of separation, the Minister reminded the separatist leaders that the onus was on them in the referendum debate. No economic union with the rest of Canada; the risks involved in reopening NAFTA; less protection for our farmers, dairy producers and cultural industries; a monetary policy dead-end for a separate Quebec; the loss of the power now held by belonging to important decision making bodies like the G-7: credible answers from Mr. Bouchard and Mr. Parizeau to such dire consequences have not been forth coming with only 10 days remaining until voting day, argued the Minister.
Mr. Martin asked Quebec to "join forces with all governments in Canada in an unprecedented effort to restore health to our public finances, and to reap its dividends in terms of jobs, investment and growth; to forge new trade agreements abroad, to build even stronger economy, to face global competition."
"I say to you that Canada's best days are not yet written in the ledger of history," the Minister said. "I say to anyone who wants to break our country apart, that Canadians are not out of breath, short on ideas, or lacking in convictions."
"These changes will make it possible to capitalize on the special "genius" of federalism: the creativity that goes hand in hand with flexibility."
The minister concluded by saying "National unity is not an end in itself. It is the natural outcome of a country that has major challenges to deal with. It is what happens when a country like Canada knows where it is going and how to get there."
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For further information:
Nathalie Gauthier
Press Attaché
Office of the Minister
(613) 996-7861
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| Last Updated: 2002-11-26 |
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