Despite tensions, Quebec Anglo groups ‘cautiously optimistic’ about PQ government

Community leaders want to work with PQ, say minority government invites collaboration

In a conference room in Montreal’s Ville-Marie borough, a group of people representing anglophones in different facets were glued to the screen as the Parti Québécois picked up seat after seat in Monday’s general election.

They had gathered for a watch party, hosted by TALQ — an English speakers’ advocacy group in Quebec. Some blew off steam with a drink, while others filled out an election pool, predicting the night’s outcome.

Early on in the night, some were anxious when early results pointed to a PQ majority. But that anxiety was quelled when a minority government was officially called, with 59 seats for the sovereigntist party.

After eight years of the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ)’s majority government, groups representing English-speaking Quebecers say a minority government is a breath of fresh air and invites the potential for partnership.