The high standard of living is predicated on its inclusion in Canada. Many of its high performing secular institutions (and their staff) enjoy being part of the Canadian family (do you remember the exodus of 76...I certainly do). Well, McGill is top ranked but the staff doesn't necessarily want to live under linguistic restrictions. Moreover, where will all the grant dollars come from to replace NSERC, CHIR and SSHRC funding. All the tax benefits you speak of will likely have to be adjusted to reflect the new status and lack of support from Canada.