Quebec is looking at tougher measures against big polluters in the province, La Presse is reporting.

The government intends to put forward legislation in the coming days that would increase fines for environmental infractions, the newspaper said Tuesday.

The legislation would also give provincial inspectors the power to sanction individuals and businesses.

Currently, only a judge can fine individuals who break environmental laws.

Between 2008 and 2009, Quebec levied $612,000 in fines, a fifth as much as Ontario, La Presse said.