Hanes: CAQ’s constitution is blood-chilling for all Quebecers

Experts are raising red flags that Bill 1 would reinforce the power of the state at the expense of the people — the opposite of what constitutions are supposed to do. For a bill touted as the “law of laws,” the Legault government’s proposed constitution for Quebec has so far resulted in the spilling of surprisingly little ink.

That might be about to change. Let’s sure hope so, for the sake of human rights, state accountability and democratic principles. Monday is the deadline for submitting briefs on Bill 1, which was tabled in the National Assembly back in early October. Anyone from constitutional scholars to civil society to ordinary citizens is welcome to offer their two cents. Starting next week, committee hearings will be held so various experts and groups can present their views to political leaders directly.