Quebec’s National Assembly passes a motion against shale gas

A photo taken from a drone shows a natural gas fracking well pad in Freeport, Pennsylvania, on Thursday, Oct. 15, 2020. (Ted Shaffrey/The Associated Press)

Another chapter in the political battle over shale gas unfolded in parliament on Thursday.

The National Assembly passed a motion reiterating that hydrocarbon exploration and production have not been permitted in Quebec since the adoption of a law in 2022, even though prospective Premier Christine Fréchette is open to reviving the industry.

The motion tabled by the Parti Québécois was passed by 91 votes to 3, with even CAQ MNAs who support Fréchette voting in favour.

It should be noted that the other candidate in the CAQ leadership race, Bernard Drainville, has opposed reopening the debate on shale gas.

On Wednesday, Energy Minister Jean Boulet, who has also thrown his support behind Fréchette, defended his candidate’s position in the Assembly, stating that the aim is to ensure the energy transition, increase supply and reduce our dependence on hydrocarbons from abroad.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published in French on March 26, 2026.