Quebec Liberal fundraiser says he pressed premier

The Quebec Liberal Party was attacked over the issue of judicial appointments on two fronts Tuesday — at the Bastarache commission and in question period.

Longtime Quebec Liberal fundraiser Charles Rondeau told the provincial commission he visited Premier Jean Charest's office 20 times in 2003 – after the party took power – with a list of Grit loyalists for hire.

The commission, headed by retired Supreme Court justice Michel Bastarache, is probing allegations of influence peddling in the province's judicial nomination process.

Allegations of cronyism from former provincial justice minister Marc Bellemare last spring led to the commission's work, now in its fifth week.

In his testimony Wednesday, Rondeau said he solicited the premier's office repeatedly on behalf of Liberal party supporters in an attempt to fill dozens of jobs, including judgeships. His admissions aren't criminal but served to intensify the government's image problem.

In question period, Parti Québécois Leader Pauline Marois said the government is "embroiled in scandals," from judge nominations to favouritism in roadwork contracts.

The PQ says the Bastarache commission is insufficient to investigate all allegations brought against the Liberals.

Charest has repeatedly denied the accusations. The premier is expected to testify before the commission at the end of the week.