# Quebec Journalists' Federation Demands Transparency from New Provincial Government The FPJQ urges legislative reforms to protect public access to information and media independence. - **Source:** [Le Devoir](https://www.ledevoir.com) - **Published:** 2026-11-06 - **Topic:** [politics](https://brifing.si/c/politics) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/cd683919-e0f3-456a-a51e-77f4d960864d ## Urgent Legislative Demands The Professional Federation of Journalists of Quebec (FPJQ) is pressuring the new government to prioritize transparency. President Éric-Pierre Champagne emphasizes that immediate action is required to ensure citizens remain informed. The association aims to secure these commitments within the first year of the current administration's mandate to protect democratic pillars. ## Legal Representation Barriers A primary goal is amending the Bar Act to prevent journalists from being forced to hire lawyers for Commission d'accès à l'information (CAI) hearings. Current requirements create significant financial burdens for media outlets. The Barreau du Québec supports this change, which would allow journalists to represent themselves during document access disputes. ## Combating Information Censorship Journalists frequently face refusals or heavily redacted documents when requesting public records from state agencies. These documents are essential for investigative reporting, such as uncovering financial scandals. The FPJQ argues that current legal obstacles prevent the public from accessing vital information, ultimately undermining the role of the press in society. ## Monitoring Political Rhetoric The FPJQ is closely watching Premier Paul St-Pierre Plamondon following his past accusatory tone toward media outlets. While politicians have the right to critique journalism, the federation warns against rhetoric that crosses into personal attacks. Champagne describes these past comments as warning signs that require ongoing vigilance from the professional body. ## Modernizing Information Laws The federation is calling on Minister Marie-Claude Sarrazin to reform the Act respecting access to documents held by public bodies. The proposed changes aim to reduce processing delays and limit the scope of exceptions. The FPJQ believes the new government shows openness to these necessary structural improvements for democratic accountability. ## AI and Financial Stability Beyond transparency, the FPJQ seeks government protection for media intellectual property against unauthorized use by artificial intelligence. They also advocate for the permanent indexing of tax credits for journalistic labor. These measures are intended to support the financial viability of media organizations currently facing significant economic pressures across the province. ## Internal Growth Strategy The FPJQ is launching a recruitment strategy to reverse a decline in its current membership of approximately 1,400 journalists. Membership remains voluntary, yet the organization plays a critical role in parliamentary commissions and policy advocacy. The federation highlights that annual dues are kept low to encourage broad participation among industry professionals. ## Leadership Transition Period Stéphanie Mac Farlane assumed the role of general director in September, succeeding Martine Desjardins. Mac Farlane brings extensive experience from her previous editorial roles at Le Canada français and Radio-Canada. Her leadership comes at a pivotal time as the federation navigates complex negotiations with the new government regarding press freedom. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.ledevoir.com/culture/medias/1022792/fpjq-attentes-elevees-envers-nouveau-gouvernement-provincial — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._