February 17, 2011

The Charest government’s popularity is at its lowest in the surveys conducted. The population no longer has any confidence in them and it is difficult to imagine a turnaround in public opinion.

As reported by Le Devoir on February 14, 77% of Quebecers are dissatisfied with the Charest government. This is outrageous! It is enormous! Such statistics could rouse the most lethargic of individuals, but Jean Charest persists. Despite legitimate demands from numerous groups, there is still no public inquiry into the corruption and collusion in the construction industry, there is still no moratorium on the exploration and exploitation of shale gas. What is more, there were nearly 250,000 signatures on the petition demanding the resignation of the premier at the end of the signature period. A quarter of a million people Mr. Charest! This is not insignificant, is it? But continue to only do things in your mind as that seems to be working well for you.

Over the last weeks, we have seen people throughout the world mobilize in the streets. Their actions have not been in vain. These people have shown their patience has limits, that mobilization can accomplish a lot and that narrow-minded people are doomed to destitution, whether they want it or not. I sincerely believe that Quebecers should be inspired by this.

The Quebec population needs to mobilize and the March 12 demonstration, organized by the Coalition opposée à la tarification et à la privatisation des services publics and the Alliance sociale, will be an excellent opportunity for this. On that day, 150 labour, community, student, feminist, popular and ecological organizations will unite to propose progressive and realistic measures for the next budget from Minister Bachand. Be part of it, mobilization can accomplish a lot!