Premier-designate St-Pierre Plamondon names Pascal Paradis diplomat and chief negotiator of the Quebec government
Radio-Canada and La Presse reported on 19 October that Paul St-Pierre Plamondon named Pascal Paradis diplomat and chief negotiator of the government. The Parti Québécois announced it in a news release on Monday. The former Jean-Talon member, who lost his seat in the 5 October election, will handle negotiations with Indigenous nations on energy and treaty matters and will report to the premier. The government said this does not mean he will negotiate directly with Americans, but that Quebec wants a seat at the table in Quebec-U.S. trade talks. Radio-Canada reported the previous government had already named Louise Blais to a similar post.
Naming a negotiator before the government takes office shows early priorities in relations with Indigenous nations and in trade with the United States. The overlap with the earlier Blais appointment raises questions about who holds the role.
If your work involves Quebec energy projects or Indigenous partnerships, this is the person who will lead talks. Exporters should watch how Quebec positions itself on U.S. trade.
The government presents the appointment as giving Quebec a dedicated voice in negotiations and treaty talks.
Reports noted that Paradis was defeated in his riding and that Blais had already been named to a similar post, so critics may see the move as a reward for a defeated member.
Confirmed: the title, the Indigenous-nations mandate and the government's clarification on U.S. talks. Not confirmed: Blais's status or his salary. Watch for the swearing-in of the new cabinet and whether Paradis is given a formal mandate letter.
DailyDrop Canada edition No. 15 · Morning · MON., OCT. 19, 2026