This article examines a growing rift within the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) over the proposed "third link" highway tunnel between Quebec City and Lévis. The tension follows an announcement by Transport Minister Jonatan Julien that delayed the project's timeline.

At the center of this divide are two potential successors to Premier François Legault: Bernard Drainville and Christine Fréchette. Drainville remains a fierce advocate for the tunnel, while Fréchette has taken a more cautious approach, stating she is still weighing her options.

Internal friction escalated as several lawmakers criticized Drainville for his public attacks on Fréchette. Other party members refused to say whether they still support the project, highlighting a deep lack of unity. Minister Jonatan Julien has since admitted there is no consensus on the tunnel among party members, directly contradicting Premier François Legault's previous claims that the entire caucus was behind the plan.

World

Minister Jonatan Julien stalls the bridge-tunnel project as a rift grows between CAQ members Bernard Drainville and Christine Fréchette

February 6, 2026
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