Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff believes "the red has returned" to Quebec and voters in this province shouldn't have to choose between being a Quebecer or a Canadian.
"Quebec pride and Canadian pride -- there is no contradiction," Ignatieff said.
He made the comments Sunday morning to about 450 delegates at the general council meeting of the Quebec wing of the Liberal party.
Party members gathered at the Sheraton Laval hotel this weekend to discuss how to gain strength in Quebec, as new poll numbers show growing support for the Liberals across the country.
"Quebecers do not deserve to be in a permanent opposition in Ottawa. Their place is in power," Ignatieff said.
"I am so proud to be a Liberal; I am so proud to be Canadian. The time has come for Quebecers to get their place back in Ottawa," he later added.
Analysis
Following Ignatieff's address to the delegates, one political analyst told CTV Montreal's Rob Lurie he believed the speech had fallen short of expectations.
"The build up for it was much too big," said Jean LaPierre, a former Liberal MP.
Lapierre said he was disappointed that Ignatieff didn't talk about new policies for Quebec, but added that he understands why the Liberals are gaining popularity.
"Quebecers are mad because of the economy, and if you're in government in bad times, obviously you're going to pay a price," said Lapierre.
Lapierre said Quebec voters may be starting to turn against Prime Minster Stephane Harper and the Conservatives, but still "don't know why to vote for Ignatieff."
