Mr. Speaker, twenty years ago tomorrow, 40% of Quebecers said yes to the sovereignist approach. In 1995, the figure was close to half. Next time, it will be a majority.
In the immediate aftermath of the May 20, 1980 referendum, Premier René Lévesque described recognition of the right to self-determination as the most valuable outcome of this Quebec referendum.
Unfortunately, the Canadian government, with its Bill C-20, is again challenging this precious right of Quebecers to decide their future freely and democratically.
On the evening of May 20, 1980, René Lévesque told the people of Quebec “If I understand you correctly, you are telling us: wait until next time”. He was convinced that it was just a temporary postponement.
The next time is coming up soon. The next time will be the right one. The next time, Quebec will become a country.