Just six days before the tense 1995 Quebec referendum that almost divided the nation, Prime Minister Jean Chrétien advised his ministers to remain composed. He acknowledged the possibility of Quebecers voting for separation on October 30 but emphasized avoiding panic or hasty actions in the event of such an outcome.
Newly revealed federal cabinet minutes obtained by The Canadian Press shed light on the somber message Chrétien delivered behind closed doors as Canada faced a looming national unity crisis. Despite expressing confidence in the campaign leading up to the referendum, the meeting minutes from 30 years ago highlight a significant shift in tone as the country grappled with the threat of separation.
The documents, released under access to information legislation, provide a glimpse into the discussions and actions taken during this critical juncture in Canada’s history. They reveal a campaign that veered off course unexpectedly, a prime minister urging calm within his cabinet, and a frantic effort to preserve national unity.
On October 24, 1995, Chrétien informed his cabinet that he would take a more prominent role in the campaign, marking a departure from his previous sideline involvement alongside other federal officials. With the federalist campaign facing a sudden decline in support as Lucien Bouchard rallied for Quebec’s separation, Chrétien cautioned his ministers against excessive distress.
Ministers from outside Quebec expressed frustration at being sidelined in a debate with profound implications for the country. They emphasized the need for Chrétien to engage more actively and speak sincerely. Chrétien announced plans for a televised national address the following day.
Contrasting with earlier cabinet minutes where Chrétien questioned the likelihood of an independence vote, the final days leading to the referendum saw a shift in strategy. Ultimately, the federalists narrowly secured victory with 50.58% of the vote. Chrétien instructed his ministers to maintain a positive public demeanor and present the referendum outcome as a triumph for Canada.
Former Deputy Prime Minister Sheila Copps credited Chrétien’s intervention with preventing the country’s potential loss. The referendum campaign officially commenced on October 2, following earlier unofficial beginnings. Chrétien’s directive to his cabinet to remain calm and avoid overreaction remained consistent as the campaign unfolded.
Cabinet records, typically confidential, were made public after 20 years under access to information laws. Despite initial attempts to redact sections of the records, some passages were later uncensored following an investigative review.
The unfolding events leading to the 1995 Quebec referendum underscored the critical moments and decisions that shaped Canada’s future, culminating in a narrow victory for the federalist cause.