WATCH: There are, of course, differences between Quebec and Scotland, but there are some parallels. As Eric Sorensen reports, even a vote to stay can result in big changes.
Supporters of Quebec’s hobbled sovereignty movement will be watching closely today as Scots decide whether to separate from the United Kingdom.
Many sovereigntists have even travelled to Scotland, where polls have predicted a nail-biter result in the referendum.
READ MORE: Emotions mount on final day of Scottish campaign
The apparent surge by pro-independence Scots provides a source of hope for leaders of Quebec’s own sovereignty movement.
Alexander Cloutier (KLOO’-tyay), a potential Parti Quebecois leadership candidate, is in Edinburgh to watch the results.
WATCH: The people of Scotland have to decide whether or not to become independent of the United Kingdom. Stuart Greer reports the polls are too close to call.
He says even a narrow loss of the Yes side in Scotland would feel like a victory and could not be ignored.
The former P-Q intergovernmental affairs minister says it was only months ago that very few people seriously thought the Yes side had a chance to win.
He points out that support for Scottish independence went from 30 per cent to 50 per cent during the last six months.
Cloutier says the Yes side is a source of inspiration for Quebec sovereigntists, noting it has won over young people, newcomers and the business community.
VIEW MORE: Parti Québécois following Scottish referendum campaign closely
A number of prominent Quebec sovereigntists also have said they were impressed by London’s approach to the Scottish referendum, such as its respect for campaign-financing limits and its agreement to respect a 50-plus-one vote result.
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