QUEBEC — Count Pierre Karl Peladeau among those who want Gilles Duceppe to stay on as Bloc Quebecois leader.
Two days after the Bloc won 10 seats but saw its popular vote numbers drop, the Parti Quebecois leader insists Duceppe's experience is necessary.
Duceppe, who failed to get re-elected in Laurier-Sainte-Marie, is expected to announce his future plans at a news conference on Thursday.
Peladeau didn't specify whether he'd spoken with Duceppe since Monday night, but hopes he will stay on.
The PQ leader says Duceppe has a handle on federal issues as well as a good knowledge of federal intrusion into provincial jurisdiction.
Duceppe hasn't held a seat in Parliament since he lost his in 2011.
"I think he is a major asset and I hope he remains leader of the Bloc," Peladeau told reporters in Quebec City.