Liberal House leader Steve MacKinnon expressed concerns on Tuesday about potential opposition to the government’s upcoming budget, while also rejecting some demands put forth by other parties. The Liberal administration will require cooperation from at least one opposition party to pass the budget, which is scheduled for presentation on Nov. 4. Failure to pass the budget, considered a confidence vote, could trigger a new election.
MacKinnon voiced unease over opposition parties already ruling out support for the budget, emphasizing the importance of garnering backing from all sides. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has urged for an “affordable budget” with tax cuts and a deficit cap below $42 billion. The Bloc Québécois outlined six key priorities for the budget, including increased federal health transfers, infrastructure investments, and enhancements to housing initiatives and Old Age Security payments.
Despite concerns about securing support, MacKinnon dismissed both the Conservative and Bloc demands as impractical. NDP interim Leader Don Davies countered MacKinnon’s remarks, stating that it is the government’s responsibility to rally support for its budget. Davies emphasized the need for collaboration to ensure budget approval, underscoring the government’s role in engaging with all parties.
While the NDP holds only seven seats post-election, their influence remains pivotal in determining the budget’s fate. Davies highlighted the importance of the government engaging with all parties to secure sufficient votes for budget passage. Carney has hinted at a larger deficit this year, despite the Liberal pledge to balance operational spending within three years.
The Parliamentary Budget Officer’s recent report projected a $68.5 billion annual deficit for this year, up from $51.7 billion last year. Notably, the report does not encompass plans to increase defence spending gradually to meet NATO benchmarks by 2035, nor does it address Ottawa’s proposed reductions in public service spending over the next three years.