Over the past few months, the Government of Quebec has set itself the priority objective of returning to a balanced budget as of 2015-2016. The reflections and cuts inspired by this austerity program raise important questions on both sides: some are concerned about the impact of this program on economic growth, others are worried about its repercussions on the quality of public services and the very nature of the Quebec model. Meanwhile, the federal government is facing a possible return to budget surpluses, which again raises important questions about revenue sharing between Ottawa and Quebec. Between austerity and its alternatives, what path should Quebec take to consolidate its public finances and ensure its economic and social prosperity?