The Canadian Press has learned the Quebec government plans to reopen the constitutional debate and will launch a vast coast-to-coast discussion in the coming months in the hopes of having the province’s distinct character officially recognized. To avoid the division and outright hostility that has characterized previous constitutional debates, Quebec’s approach will be essentially a pedagogical one, focused on dialogue, persuasion and understanding. The Canadian Press has obtained a copy of the document, which is expected to be made public in the coming days. RelatedAbove all, Quebec hopes to break the taboo that has surrounded discussion of the Constitution since the 1995 sovereignty referendum, according to the document, which notes “Quebec and Canada seem ready for a paradigm shift” on this subject. According to the document, which is being released in honour of Canada’s 150th birthday, any successful talks must include Canada’s official recognition of Quebec nationhood.

Source: National Post May 31, 2017 23:03 UTC