Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe expressed concerns about the federal budget released, stating that the projected $39.8-billion deficit for 2024-25 is more than the province can handle. He highlighted that the Saskatchewan Party had requested more funding for municipal infrastructure and the removal of the carbon price, neither of which were delivered in the budget. Moe suggested reallocating money from housing funding to municipal infrastructure, emphasizing the importance of proper services for new homes. The budget primarily focuses on housing programs and includes $57 billion in new spending, with a goal to build 3.87 million new homes by 2031.
Finance Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland introduced the 2024 budget, emphasizing the government’s commitment to building more homes faster, reducing the cost of living, and driving economic growth. Saskatoon Mayor Charlie Clark welcomed the $6-billion housing and infrastructure program promised for the city, highlighting the need for infrastructure surrounding housing and high-density housing in main corridors. However, Clark expressed concerns about the conditions attached to the funds and suggested connecting some of the money to recreational facilities and downtown revitalization efforts.
Both Clark and Moe acknowledged some positive aspects of the budget, such as funding allocation for addressing homelessness and support for various University of Saskatchewan programs. Moe mentioned the return of carbon taxation dollars to small businesses through the Canada Carbon Rebate for Small Businesses, which involves more than $2.5 billion collected through the federal fuel charge over the past five years. While Moe criticized the federal government’s spending, he also recognized the potential benefits of increasing investments in communities to grow the economy and tax base, a strategy that the Saskatchewan Party is currently implementing.
The federal budget’s emphasis on housing programs and infrastructure investments was praised by some, while others raised concerns about the conditions attached to the funds and suggested alternative allocations. Moe and Clark both acknowledged the positive steps taken in the budget, such as funding for homelessness and support for local programs. The return of carbon taxation dollars to small businesses was also highlighted as a positive development. Moving forward, there is a call for increased collaboration between the federal and provincial governments to address economic challenges and deficits. The budget reflects a significant investment in housing programs and infrastructure, with a focus on building more homes and driving economic growth for the benefit of Canadians across the country.
