Quebec to Invoke Notwithstanding Clause to Retain Doctors

Premier François Legault plans to enforce legislation requiring new doctors to work in Quebec's public health system.

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.