Quebec Premier Urges Federal Government to Increase Icebreaker Fleet and Enhance Arctic Security

March 1, 2025 TruthUSA

Quebec Premier François Legault has urged Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to increase Canada’s presence in the Arctic by constructing more icebreakers, citing it as a potential way to avoid U.S. tariffs.

Legault expressed these sentiments in an open letter to Trudeau dated Feb. 25, which the premier shared on social media.

He emphasized the need for Ottawa to enhance its role in Arctic security, suggesting that icebreakers are necessary not only to generate employment but also to safeguard Arctic security.

“It would also demonstrate to the Trump administration that Canada can contribute positively to defense efforts,” he stated in a post on the X platform dated Feb. 26.

Trump has called upon all NATO members to meet the 2 percent of GDP defense spending commitment. Canada’s current spending is projected to reach 1.37 percent of GDP this fiscal year.

In his letter, Legault stressed the importance for Canada to assert its leadership in the Arctic, proposing that Ottawa acquire icebreakers from PolarMax, a company owned by Quebec’s Chantier Davie Shipyard.

Legault highlighted Canada’s strategic advantage and its potential to become a significant player in Arctic security, adding that Canada could prove to its NATO allies its capability to defend its territory.

In November 2024, Canada, the United States, and Finland signed a Memorandum of Understanding to construct additional icebreakers. Currently, the Canadian Coast Guard operates 18 icebreakers of various sizes and capabilities.

Canada procured two new polar icebreakers from Chantier Davie and Seaspan’s Vancouver Shipyards in May 2021.

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre echoed Legault’s sentiments, stating his agreement with the premier.

“All necessary measures must be taken to maintain a strong presence in the Arctic and safeguard our territory,” Poilievre wrote.

He outlined a part of his Canada First plan, which includes constructing four icebreakers, doubling the rangers, and establishing a military base in Iqaluit.

“It is imperative that we prioritize Canada’s interests, reinforce our sovereignty against American threats, and protect the Arctic,” he emphasized.

During a Feb. 10 announcement regarding the military base in Iqaluit, Poilievre pledged to complete its construction within two years, with funding coming from foreign aid cuts.

He insisted that it was time for Canada to take charge of its northern region, secure its borders, and be self-reliant, highlighting the inability to depend on the United States for such measures anymore.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith also voiced her strong support for Quebec’s stance on Arctic sovereignty.

“Given the increasing global threats, safeguarding our Northern region is essential, and investing in icebreakers is paramount to enhancing our sovereignty, supporting jobs, and demonstrating to our NATO allies, including the United States, our commitment to defense,” she stated on social media.

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