Government House Leader Steven MacKinnon and Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre have outlined their respective parties’ key focuses as Parliament gears up for its fall session starting on Monday.
During an interview on the show “Rosemary Barton Live” aired on Sunday morning, MacKinnon emphasized that the upcoming federal budget in October, led by Prime Minister Mark Carney, will set the country’s economic trajectory. He stressed the urgency for Ottawa to take action on various fronts, particularly in addressing the detrimental impact of the Canada-U.S. trade conflict and removing the GST on new residential properties. MacKinnon acknowledged that these investments will come at a significant cost but are essential for the nation’s progress.
The last economic update from the federal government was in December 2024, prior to the onset of tariffs imposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump, which led to a substantial spike in the federal deficit. MacKinnon refrained from specifying the exact timing of the fall budget announcement, leaving that responsibility to Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne. He highlighted the importance of making prudent decisions to ensure that government programs deliver optimal value for taxpayers.
In terms of legislative priorities, MacKinnon mentioned that the Liberals will introduce bills focusing on crime prevention in Canada, particularly on reforms related to bail procedures and enhancing security around places of worship. He emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing concerns about violent offenders reintegrating into communities.
On the other hand, Poilievre, in his address to the Conservative caucus, underscored the party’s efforts in leading discussions on critical issues such as job security, inflation, and resource development. He criticized Prime Minister Carney for allegedly failing to tackle affordability challenges and impeding economic growth by delaying major resource projects. Poilievre vowed to propose solutions, including expediting building permits at the municipal level and advocating for the Canadian Sovereignty Act.
Additionally, Poilievre criticized the government’s delay in approving new national projects, arguing that Carney has not yet greenlit any significant initiatives despite being six months into office. He highlighted the Conservatives’ aim to legalize pipelines and eliminate certain environmental regulations.
Both parties are gearing up for a dynamic fall session in Parliament, with diverging approaches on key policy areas that will shape the country’s economic and social landscape in the coming months.