2014-2018 government achievements

We addressed the real issues

Québec City, December 8, 2017 — The Premier of Québec, Philippe Couillard, proceeded today to take stock of his first term with his team.

Let’s remind ourselves of where we stood in 2014. Public finances were a mess, our deficits were spiralling out of control and economic growth was at its weakest. I started this term with one obsession: to better the lives of Quebecers, lift Québec out of its pessimistic state, renew hope and show that we are able to succeed.

– Philippe Couillard, Premier of Québec.

He stressed that, as early as 2014, the economy had been placed at the heart of his government’s action. Public finances were cleaned up and many steps were taken to support entrepreneurs. We only have to think about their tax burden being reduced, our focus on new technologies, modernization, the digital shift as well as innovation and the unveiling of strategies and ambitious policies such as the Maritime Strategy and the biofood policy. He pointed out that it was these measures that made Québec’s economy run at full throttle: economic growth is the highest it has been in eighteen years; nearly 230,000 jobs have been created in four years; the unemployment rate has never been so low; and the highest wage growth in Canada has occurred in Québec.

It is clear that Québec has changed significantly in recent years. We have a strong team that has proven its value and has managed to give real momentum to Québec’s economy. We can now better support the poorest and act on Quebecers’ priorities: education and health.

– Philippe Couillard, Premier of Québec.

He reminded us that there are now fewer Quebecers in poverty, health care wait times have been reduced, more teachers and professionals are involved in the success of our young people in our schools and we are investing like never before in sustainable mobility and culture while reducing taxes. He also stressed that his government proceeded to the largest decentralization of power to Québec municipalities in history while giving them new financial means for their development.

Today, in 2018, we take pride in the way we’ve come together. We have re-established a climate of confidence that enabled the recovery of our economy. Without this economic momentum, we would still be faced with difficult choices. However, this prosperity is still fragile. The world is changing and the challenges and stakes are great.

– Philippe Couillard, Premier of Québec.

He insisted on the fact that Donald Trump’s decisions are a threat to our economic stability and our workers, entrepreneurs and farmers. He strongly reiterated that he would always defend them with determination. In addition, he mentioned that Québec is facing the challenge of labour shortages and that without the input of new workers, existing jobs will be threatened. He said that the response to these challenges cannot be closing our borders or rejecting foreigners.

We are in a world where the allies of yesterday can today represent a threat for our companies and workers in each of Québec’s regions. On October 1, let’s not break Québec’s economic momentum. I invite Quebecers to bet on a strong team that has proven itself.

– Philippe Couillard, Premier of Québec.

In conclusion, he reminded us that his government has revived the economy and restored public finances, because with a growing economy and sound finances, everything becomes possible: “Everything is within our reach: our dreams and our ambitions.” Once again, everything is possible for all generations. I invite all those who want to join us. You will lead and live within the new Québec that we are building.”