Quebec to Invoke Notwithstanding Clause to Retain Doctors

Overview

• Quebec Premier François Legault announced the potential use of the notwithstanding clause to mandate that medical graduates start their careers in the province's public healthcare system.
• The proposed legislation would require doctors trained in Quebec to either work in the province for a certain period or reimburse the cost of their education.
• Legault acknowledges that this move could contravene the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, but argues it is necessary due to a critical shortage of doctors.
• The cost of training a doctor in Quebec ranges from $435,000 to $790,000, and a significant number of graduates have been leaving the province.
• Health Minister Christian Dubé is set to table the legislation, aiming to prevent new doctors from opting for private practice or leaving the province.