Quebec Libs defend reputation in the face of illegal fundraising allegations

QUEBEC – The Quebec Liberal Party is defending its reputation in the face of explosive allegations about fundraising practices levied by a star at a corruption inquiry.

The party’s interim leader says he’s spoken with party officials and has been told that illegal fundraising tactics were never used or tolerated.

A former construction boss, Lino Zambito, has told the inquiry that he pumped money through third-party intermediaries to circumvent Quebec’s electoral contribution limits.

Zambito also says he showered a former deputy premier with gifts — namely, roses and concert tickets.

None of Zambito’s allegations have been proven in court.

Jean-Marc Fournier, the Liberals’ interim leader, says he’s also asked party officials to examine whether new control mechanisms are necessary to ensure donations are clean.

Fournier says the party will also be seeking participant status before the inquiry. He urged that the inquiry be allowed to conduct its work before conclusions are drawn.