The ADQ would bring back the baby bonus

"We're five quality candidates who come from different backgrounds," pointed out François Gaudreau, ADQ candidate in Vimont, and the riding's MNA in 2002-2003. "We're out there to debate the issues, meet the people and propose solutions that the ADQ would implement," Mr. Gaudreau explained.

The ADQ candidates also reiterated their commitments to the family and to senior citizens. Patrick Pilotte, candidate in Fabre, reaffirmed that an ADQ government would provide a weekly $100 subsidy per child for families with pre-school age children not attending day-care at $7 a day. The ADQ would also freeze the day care costs at $7.

"The shortage of space in day care centres is abominable. Many families have been abandoned by the Liberals, notably those who need part-time day care and day care at hours out of the ordinary," Mr. Pilotte stated.

Mr. Pilotte added that the $900 million needed for this family assistance program would come from "cuts in public funds for social welfare, from the elimination of school boards, and through the fostering of economic growth."

An ADQ government would also provide a $5000 grant for the birth or adoption of a third child. Medical expenses incurred for the treatment of infertility would be covered by medicare.

Once in power, the ADQ would create a commission of public inquiry to look into the status of seniors, with particular emphasis on their standard of living. "We must guarantee that seniors are treated with respect," said Mr. Gaudreau.

The former Vimont MNA said he was struck by the fact that government inspectors announce their visits to seniors residences in advance. "That's no way to find out whether there are problems or not," he challenged.