Hey, the bait is here. Get in Quebecers, get in the lobster trap, and then we'll close the door. And you'll have a referendum no matter what.

Quebec's distinct character makes Canada an even better country, and vice versa: being in Canada makes Quebec a better place too.

I always remind Quebecers: hey, wait a minute - federalism works. If you look at the fiscal arrangements, the economic arrangements, the way the country works, if you compare it to other countries in the world, it's quite advantageous for Quebec.

Something I don't want to do, ever, is to put Quebec in a position of weakness.

We have to redesign the finances of the Quebec state to preserve what counts: education, health and families.

I often repeat three numbers: 20-23-26. Quebec generates only 20 per cent of Canada's wealth; it represents 23 per cent of the population, but it does 26 per cent of government spending in Canada. That's incompatible with good financial health over the long term.

In Quebec, we can no longer increase taxes if we want to stay competitive.