There’s been a shake up in the premier’s office as Philippe Couillard‘s chief of staff and long-time friend, Jean-Louis Dufresne, has quit.
No reason has been given; the premier commented in a press release that Dufresne was stepping down, but “there is no doubt that our friendship of 45 years will continue.”
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Dufresne has been the subject of multiple controversies in the Liberal government, including allegations about his involvement in the sale of Rona.
The Coalition Avenir Quebec (CAQ) also alleged the former chief of staff was involved in stealing financial documents from the opposition party.
The party called for his resignation a year ago.
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Tuesday morning, the CAQ called for the government to explain the real reason for Dufresne’s resignation.
“We already asked for the resignation of Mr. Dufresne because of the link he had with some people…so we’re happy with this decision,” said CAQ leader François Legault.
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Jean-Pascal Bernier, who has been working for the premier since 2012 will take over for Dufresne Monday.
The premier’s office declined a request by Global News for more details on Dufresne’s resignation.