HomeQUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ON CANADIAN UNITY
Q. How will the unity issue affect me personally?
A. Every citizen has an interest in ensuring the strength of the province and the country. A strong, united Canada will pay dividends to all its citizens.
Q. Why are consultations being held?
A. The views of residents of this province are very important in this issue. Input from citizens regarding the Calgary Declaration is required. The principles agreed to by Premiers in Calgary will need the support of the citizens of the Province if they are to be effective.
Q. Why should I consider public consultations on national unity a priority at this time?
A. This issue is particularly important today since a Quebec election will likely take place in 1998 and, if the Parti Quebecois wins that election, a Quebec referendum will probably follow in 1999 or 2000.
There will be severe negative economic consequences for Newfoundland and Labrador if Quebec separates from Canada. In order to ensure political and economic stability in Canada, Canada must remain a strong, united country.
Q. How are these principles different from the present situation?
A. There is nothing different. The principles simply giveexpression to what already exists and this is important.
Q. Will there be separate powers for any province?
A. No. Principle 6 states clearly that if the Constitution is amended to give a power to one province, that power must be available to all provinces.
Principle 5 recognizes that Quebec has a role to protect and develop its unique character, but no special powers are associated with that role.
Q. In dealing with Quebec, why is "unique character" used instead of "distinct"?
A. The word "distinct" carries with it baggage from earlier discussions. It has taken on a negative meaning in many parts of Canada. Also, "distinct" suggests a "separateness" that is inconsistent with the concept of unity.
By contrast, "unique character" suggest something special which does not undermine unity. Therefore, "unique character" more accurately describes what is meant.