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Fabre Liberal candidate, Michelle Courchesne, arrived at her electoral office December 8 to the tune of cheers and applause. The Minister of Education was visibly emotional as she entered the office followed by a group of her relatives. “I’m really, really happy and very touched. For the third time, the citizens of Fabre gave me their trust. I feel quite privileged,” she said.
Courchesne defeated the Parti Quebecois with 15,349 votes (45.5%). The PQ got 12,425 votes (36.8 %). Despite it being Courchesne’s third campaign, she admits she never gets used to it. “Each campaign is different. Each campaign is special. And each campaign means something totally different. After the third time, you think you’ve been there but it’s not true. It’s a new beginning every time,” stated Courchesne.
Liberal majority
Along with her post as MNA for Fabre, Courchesne has also been the Minister of Education, Recreation and Sports, and the Minister for Families since April of last year. She is also the Minister responsible for the region of Laval. She was pleased that her five fellow colleagues were re-elected as well. Vimont’s Vincent Auclair won by 47.8%, Laval-des-Rapides’ Alain Paquet edged out PQ’s Marc Demers with 43.6% and Mille-Îles Francine Charbonneau won with 46%. “I’m so proud of them and so happy. Again, we remain a team and will continue to work as a team for all Laval citizens. We’re good friends and we have the same objectives and same determination to make sure Laval is on the map and we are able to respond to our needs and issues here in Laval,” said Courchesne.
On election night, she also thanked both her family, volunteers and members of staff for helping her get through the campaign. “Once again, you have put your confidence in a woman who believes in honesty. I cannot thank you enough for our support,” she told the crowd.
This was a critical election for the Quebec Liberal Party. Leader Jean Charest’s goal was to gain a majority government to better equip Quebec to get through the looming global economical crisis became the a major priority. With 42% of the vote, the mission was accomplished. “He did an exceptional job with this campaign and I am proud to be part of his team,” she stated. And what’s next for Courchesne? “Work, work, work, that’s what next. We will continue,” she said.