 Jean-François Lisee, former adviser to Lucien Bouchard and Jacques Parizeau, is running for the Parti Quebecois in Rosemont, Quebec. (JEAN-FRANCOIS DESGAGNES/QMI Agency)
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MONT-SAINT-GREGOIRE, QUE. - A new Parti Quebecois candidate is calling for a referendum for Quebec to separate.
On Saturday, sovereigntist and a past advisor to Jacques Parizeau and Lucien Bouchard, Jean-Francois Lisee, announced he will run for the Parti Quebecois in Montreal's Rosemont riding in the provincial election.
During the announcement Saturday, he said he hopes Quebecers will say, "'We want to leave Canada,' and the PQ will be there to give them that opportunity."
Parti Quebecois Leader Pauline Marois, however, refused to commit to one during a campaign stop Saturday.
"All separatists want there to be a referendum in our first term," Marois said, adding, "I cannot tell you when we will (have one)."
Premier Jean Charest denounced Lisee's remarks.
Known for being outspoken, Lisee said he'd adhere to the PQ's election platform during the election and he'd discuss his ideas with the caucus if he's elected.
Quebecers go to the polls Sept. 4.
