PQ predicts millions of migrants at the borders after Trump win

Quebec is bracing for a potential surge of migrants from the United States following Donald Trump’s election, with Parti Québécois (PQ) leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon predicting that thousands could cross the border, particularly if Trump follows through on his campaign promises of mass deportations.

Plamondon expressed concern that as many as 20 million individuals might consider migrating to Canada, given the President-elect's stance on immigration.

He criticized the current state of border management, claiming that Canada has one of the most poorly controlled and porous borders in the West. Plamondon also used the opportunity to reiterate his belief that Quebec needs full control over its immigration policies, advocating for Quebec independence as a solution to avoid what he describes as an inevitable crisis.

In contrast, other political parties are urging caution. The Quebec Liberal Party (PLQ), represented by André Morin, emphasized that there are mechanisms in place to regulate border crossings and law enforcement to manage immigration effectively. They sought to reassure the public that the situation could be handled without escalating fears.

Québec solidaire (QS), while acknowledging the potential impact of U.S. deportations, stressed Quebec's responsibility to uphold international conventions that require the province to welcome refugees.

Gabriel Nadeau-Dubois, parliamentary leader of QS, expressed concerns about the rise of authoritarianism globally, suggesting that Quebec, despite being removed from the polarization seen in the U.S., must remain vigilant and compassionate toward migrants and minorities.

This debate highlights the complex political dynamics in Quebec around immigration, sovereignty, and international responsibilities.

It also underscores the broader anxieties over changing immigration policies in the United States and the potential ripple effects in neighboring Canada.