New independence think tank promises to be politically independent

A new think tank on Quebec independence claims it will be independent of political influence.

The mandate of the Institut de recherche sur l'Autodtermination des peuples et des Indpendances nationales is to research independence and its potential impact.

But the political leanings of the people who are helping to fund and lead the institute are raising questions.

Former PQ MNA and Bloc Qubcois MP Daniel Turp will be at its helm, and he promises full autonomy.

"I can assure that I will research independence in full independence," Turp said.

The think tank was a leadership campaign promise by Parti Qubcois leader Pierre Karl Pladeau.

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He confirmed on Wednesday he'll be making a financial contribution to the institute, but wouldn't say how much.

"My contribution will be in keeping with Quebec's laws," he said.

Liberal government house leader Jean-Marc Fournier says it's up to the chief electoral officer to decide if the institute is legal.

"That's for them to decide. But it's difficult to decide to not see a link between Mr. Pladeau and the institute," he said.

The elections office says it will be following the issue with interest.