Quebec’s electoral commission sticks to plan to eliminate two ridings in Montreal and Gaspésie
Posted December 3, 2025 8:27 am.
Quebec’s Electoral Representation Commission (CRE) tabled a new report Tuesday outlining proposed changes to the province’s electoral map ahead of the 2026 general election.
The update came one day after the Court of Appeal struck down a unanimously adopted 2024 law that had halted the map-revision process, calling it “unconstitutional” and “inoperative.”
In its second report, the CRE maintains its proposal to remove two ridings, one in Gaspésie and one in Montreal, and create two new ones in the Laurentides–Lanaudière and Centre-du-Québec regions.
However, the commission adjusted the boundaries of several ridings, particularly in eastern Montreal and in Montérégie, saying the revisions reflect public feedback.
The CRE also reiterates the five riding name changes adopted by MNAs last year, but notes that naming electoral divisions is its responsibility, not that of politicians, and must be carried out independently.
Under Quebec’s Election Act, MNAs must now debate the revised proposal within five days of its tabling.
After that debate, the CRE will have 10 days to finalize the new electoral map, which is expected to be used for the next two provincial elections.
The commission’s initial report sparked significant pushback in the National Assembly, with MNAs from all parties warning that the proposed changes would further erode Gaspésie’s political weight.
All four represented parties agreed to pause the process by adopting Bill 59, giving lawmakers more time to explore alternatives.
The Council of Prefects and Elected Officials of the Laurentides Region (CPERL) later challenged that law in court, and the Court of Appeal ruled in its favour Monday.
The Election Act requires a revision of the electoral map after every two general elections to reflect population shifts and ensure fair representation.
The map must divide Quebec into 125 ridings of roughly 51,000 electors each, with shared demographic characteristics wherever possible.
