Government House Leader Steven MacKinnon and Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre have outlined their respective parties’ key focuses as Parliament prepares to reconvene for the fall session starting Monday.
Speaking on a recent episode of Rosemary Barton Live, MacKinnon emphasized that the upcoming federal budget in October, led by Prime Minister Mark Carney, will play a crucial role in setting the economic direction for Canada. MacKinnon stressed the necessity for Ottawa to address pressing issues such as the ongoing Canada-U.S. trade conflict and the proposal to eliminate the GST on new residential properties. Despite acknowledging the high cost of these initiatives, MacKinnon emphasized their importance and the need for careful financial planning to manage the consequential deficit.
Regarding the government’s economic update, the last information shared with Canadians dates back to December 2024, revealing a substantial deficit close to $62 billion, largely attributed to one-time expenditures. MacKinnon refrained from specifying the exact timing of the fall budget announcement, deferring that decision to Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne. He highlighted the government’s commitment to scrutinizing existing programs to ensure optimal use of taxpayer funds and support for vulnerable populations.
In addressing crime-related issues, MacKinnon announced forthcoming legislation from the Liberals aimed at enhancing public safety, particularly focusing on bail reform and safeguarding areas around places of worship. Stressing the urgency of addressing violent offenders reintegrating into communities, MacKinnon underlined the government’s intent to act decisively, though specific details of the proposed legislative changes were not disclosed.
On the other hand, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre presented the Conservative party’s priorities, emphasizing their focus on job security, inflation, housing, natural resources, and law enforcement. Poilievre criticized Prime Minister Carney for perceived inaction on affordability challenges and slow progress on vital resource projects, suggesting that the government’s actions do not align with its promises. The Conservatives intend to propose solutions to these issues, including streamlining building permits, setting immigration limits, and introducing the Canadian Sovereignty Act.
The proposed Conservative legislation incorporates pledges from their campaign, seeking to revoke the West Coast oil-tanker ban, abolish industrial emissions restrictions, and eliminate the industrial carbon tax. Poilievre criticized Carney’s recent project announcements, claiming a lack of progress and failure to approve new nation-building initiatives within the promised timeframe.
As Parliament gears up for the fall session, both the Liberal and Conservative parties are gearing up to address critical issues facing Canadians, from economic recovery to public safety and resource development.
