The Ethics Commissioner of the National Assembly has initiated an investigation into Minister of Immigration Jean-François Roberge. This inquiry arises amid the leadership race of the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) following requests from two opposition deputies.
Investigation Details
Commissioner Ariane Mignolet’s decision resulted from complaints lodged by Marc Tanguay, a member of the Liberal Party, and Étienne Grandmont of Québec Solidaire. They allege that Roberge violated the ethics code regarding conflicts of interest.
- Marc Tanguay claims Roberge shared analysis results with colleagues not publicly available.
- Grandmont emphasized that this could contravene Article 17 of the ethics code.
The article states that a deputy must not use information obtained in their official capacity for personal advantage or that of others.
Allegations Against Roberge
The investigation will determine whether Roberge breached ethical guidelines. Bernard Drainville, a fellow minister, disclosed that Roberge confirmed 18,000 immigrants would be permitted to apply for permanent residency linked to the promised rights clause for the Programme de l’expérience québécoise (PEQ).
During a heated immigration debate, Drainville asked Christine Fréchette to reveal her departmental analysis results. However, she declined to disclose that information, leading to further questions about the transparency of Roberge’s actions.
Projected Immigrant Numbers
Subsequent reports indicated that approximately 125,000 immigrants could receive a selection certificate under the proposed rights clause, according to Ministry estimates.
Proposed Changes to the PEQ
Drainville advocates for restricting the rights clause to temporary foreign workers in key sectors, including:
- Health
- Education
- Manufacturing
- Construction
This approach would provide a streamlined pathway to the new qualified worker selection program, contingent on meeting other requirements.
Christine Fréchette has indicated plans to reactivate the PEQ for two years. This would grant acquired rights to those present in Quebec at the time the PEQ was closed, while also suggesting a reduction in invitations to maintain the annual immigration threshold at 45,000 permanent arrivals.
