The Sherbrooke Declaration

The NDP has adopted, during its 2006 National Convention in Québec City, a document defining its position on Québec. Better known as the “Sherbrooke Declaration”, the document reaffirms (1) the recognition of Québec’s national character, therefore (2) the necessity to encourage asymmetrical federalism, (3) the will of the NDP to work for a cooperative federalism and (4) the confidence of the NDP in the Québécois population by recognizing the province’s right to self-determination. All the ideas and approaches in this document can be applied in the current framework, without a need to reopen the Constitution. However, the NDP recognizes that in the medium-term, a solution will have to be agreed upon for Québec to finally take its rightful place in the country of Canada.

1. The NDP recognizes Québec’s national character through its francophone majority and the use of the French language in the work place and in the community, its unique culture in America expressed through a sense of identity, of belonging and through its specific history and its political, economical, cultural and social institutions. The Québécois’ sense of Canadian identity is therefore different from the majority of Canadians.

2. The recognition of Québec’s national character calls for real actions. That is why the NDP promotes asymmetrical federalism. Since uniformity does not mean unity, the NDP is committed to respect the various social realities in Canada, mainly the situations concerning Québec and the First Nations. Specifically, the NDP believes that Québec should have the right to refuse, with compensation, when the Federal government, whether alone or with other provinces, intervenes in a provincial jurisdiction. No norms or conditions should be applied to Québec without its consent.

3. The NDP wishes to work with the provinces with respect. That is why it promotes a cooperative federalism. This new solution aims to counter federal unilateralism and ensure long-term functional decisions and negotiations. Cooperative and asymmetrical federalisms should help rebuild trust between Québec and the Federal government and enable the province to stand with pride when negotiations occur.

4. Finally, the Sherbrooke Declaration recognizes Québec’s right to self-determination. The NDP promises to respect the Referendum Act. The NDP’s vision is one of belief in democracy, good faith and peaceful values. The NDP therefore proposes a positive vision for the future rather than polarizing the debate.