MONTREAL – Prime Minister François Legault took advantage of his traditional Christmas message to ensure that his government will not disappoint people in financial difficulty, especially during the holiday season.
In a short video posted to social media on Christmas Eve Saturday night, Mr. Legault said Quebec will not let go of people for whom this holiday season is harder on the wallet due to the higher cost of living.
“I also think of those who have problems with money. I know it’s not easy for some. We will not let you go, we will be there to help you,” she said.
The fight against inflation is an issue that has been at the heart of Legault’s priorities since his re-election last October. He had also made his “anti-inflation shield” a flagship campaign measure of the Coalition avenir Québec (CAQ).
Just before the holidays, millions of Quebecers received between $400 and $600, depending on their income. The sending of these individual sums was precisely one of the components of this “anti-inflation shield”.
On social networks, Mr. Legault also acknowledged that this is not the Christmas many hoped for, with the numerous power outages and difficult weather conditions throughout Quebec.
“Please check your loved ones if they live alone. Also be careful on the roads, the conditions are not ideal. For those who wish to warm up, places are ready to welcome you in different cities and municipalities ”, wrote the Prime Minister on his Facebook page.
On Sunday morning, Hydro-Quebec chairman and chief executive Sophie Brochu said she hoped that everyone who was left without electricity since Friday due to the winter storm that hit the province could be reconnected to electricity here on Sunday evening.
However, he acknowledged that despite all the good will in the world, some Quebecers will have to spend Christmas in the dark.
In spite of everything, Mr. Legault hopes that everyone can enjoy themselves.
“Spending time with family is what matters. I also have a little thought for those who are alone. Don’t hesitate to call a friend, an acquaintance; it can make a difference.”
