The federal government’s 2026 budget is being criticized by the MP representing Northumberland-Clarke, who says it does little to address the rising cost of living.
The MP expressed disappointment with Prime Minister Mark Carney’s continued support for Liberal spending policies, while raising concerns about how the government is accounting for money transferred to Crown corporations.
The MP says approximately $55 billion in transfers are being classified as off-budget spending, allowing the government to exclude those amounts from its projected deficit figures, despite the transfers adding to Canada’s overall debt and interest costs.
The MP argues the accounting approach lacks transparency and does little to help households struggling with grocery, gas and other everyday expenses.
The criticism also points to a lack of income tax reductions, spending restraint and targeted support for small businesses affected by tariffs.
The MP says the budget fails to improve affordability for Northumberland-Clarke residents and intends to vote against it.
(Richard Evans)