Lionel Carmant has announced his departure from his role as the social services minister in the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) government, stating that he will now serve as an Independent member. This decision, described as challenging and emotional by Carmant, was disclosed during a joint press conference with Premier François Legault on Thursday morning. Carmant cited the recent weeks as influential in reshaping his priorities, emphasizing his choice to prioritize his family.
Premier Legault later revealed that Sonia Bélanger, the minister overseeing housing, will assume the role of social services minister in addition to her existing responsibilities for seniors. Meanwhile, Caroline Proulx, the former seniors’ affairs minister, will now oversee housing matters.
Carmant’s resignation follows his daughter’s public letter, coinciding with Quebec doctors’ legal opposition to Bill 2, a law regulating doctors’ salaries. The Quebec Federation of Medical Specialists has legally contested the bill, labeling it as severe and infringing on constitutional rights. In response, numerous doctors are contemplating leaving the province’s healthcare system, with some already seeking licenses to practice in other provinces.
Carmant’s daughter, a specialist in maternal-fetal medicine, expressed her potential move to another province in her open letter if the government does not allow her to practice freely. Despite not directly addressing his daughter’s letter in the press conference, Carmant characterized his decision as a choice between responsibilities rather than a renouncement.
Ministers from opposing parties acknowledged Carmant’s resignation, with Minister Ian Lafrenière describing him as a valuable colleague. Marc Tanguay, the Quebec Liberal Party’s health critic, highlighted the significance of Carmant’s daughter’s letter in conveying a powerful message to Premier Legault.
Québec Solidaire MNA Manon Massé lamented the government’s loss of an exceptional minister, expressing sadness at the departure. Before entering politics, Carmant served as a pediatric neurologist at CHU Sainte-Justine and held the position of junior minister for health and social services from 2018 to 2022. Despite his passion for his work, Carmant acknowledged the difficulty of leaving behind his projects. Premier Legault commended Carmant for his achievements and expressed gratitude for his service.