Elgin-Middlesex-London reacts to this afternoon’s (Monday) federal budget:
“The COVID-19 pandemic has placed a major burden on families and businesses across our country.
With new restrictions recently put in place, it is more important than ever that the federal government
supports Canadians to endure these unprecedented times.
“Although I have serious concerns regarding the financial security of Canadians and the massive deficits
that this government continues to embrace, I am pleased the budget is investing in fighting child sexual
exploitation and violence against women, as well as establishing a suicide prevention hotline. The Budget
does also provide some targeted supports for constituents of Elgin-Middlesex-London facing unique
challenges due to the pandemic.
“However, I cannot support the massive debts this government continues to pile on Canadian families.
The Liberal track-record on the economy through the pandemic has been abysmal, achieving some of the
worst outcomes and unemployment rates in the G7 despite spending the most per capita. Unfortunately,
this Budget has not provided any reassurance to Canadians that the government’s debt management is
under control, or that they have any real plan to secure Canada’s economy. Instead the government has
outlined a $354.2 billion deficit.
“I will continue to champion the financial well-being of all residents in Elgin-Middlesex-London. While I
am glad that there are measures in this budget that will support Canadians through post-pandemic
recovery, the government must remain focused on securing adequate vaccine supplies. The government
must also start to be more critical with how they spend, and focus on wise expenditures, and not on
massive new projects that re-imagine our economy.”
