Values charter has no impact on foreign investment in Quebec, premier says

LONDON, England – Premier Pauline Marois says Quebec’s proposed values charter doesn’t worry foreign investors who might be interested in setting up shop in the province.

Marois says the proposed charter won’t have an impact on investment.

The premier made the remarks in London, where she announced a $10-million government investment in White Star Capital, a capital-risk firm.

Marois said White Star Capital opening up in Montreal shows Quebec offers a favourable climate for investment.

The firm was founded by Quebecer Eric Martineau-Fortin and has offices in London and New York City.

Marois was in London ahead of travelling to Davos, Switzerland, for the World Economic Forum.

The values charter, known as Bill 60, has created a deep rift in Quebec. Some have welcomed it as a necessary measure while others have blasted it as a source of division and a political ploy to turn attention away from more pressing matters.

Bill 60 would forbid public employees from wearing visible religious symbols including hijabs, turbans, kippas and larger-than-average crucifixes.

Marois said the proposed legislation is not a factor for outside investors.

“They are interested by our economic policies, by our qualified and creative skilled labour and by the policies of the government to control spending and the deficit,” she said.

“That is why investors continue to support the economy of Quebec.”