Trudeau consulting with opposition on ‘ambitious’ throne speech

Some have said that this is an empty gesture, but Trudeau officials claim that there is still room for last minute additions. The opposition parties have all clearly voiced what they want to see in the September 23 Throne Speech.

The Bloc Quebecois have stated that they would like to see more funding to help seniors through the pandemic, as well as more funding being given to provinces for healthcare.

According to Global News, It is expected that the speech will focus on three main areas: “Further measures to curb the spread of COVID-19 and avoid another nation-wide lockdown; to help Canadians stay afloat while the pandemic continues; and longer-term measures to structurally rebuild the ravaged economy.”

More funding for healthcare, including long-term care, is expected to be mentioned in the speech, as well as childcare so women can get back to work.

Trudeau continues to say that his speech will be an “ambitious plan for a healthier, safer, fairer, cleaner and more inclusive Canada.” However many financial experts are concerned that this plan will come with more massive deficits and debt for Canada. Canada’s deficit is now over $343 billion, and debt is over 1 trillion dollars.

Trudeau did say that the top priority for his government will be preventing a second wave of COVID-19, following a rise in cases nationwide. This will likely be the top message in the throne speech.

A confidence vote will follow the throne speech, and the Liberals need the support of one opposition party to secure the confidence of the house. The failure to do so will result in the triggering of an election.