Ahead of casting her first vote in support of a federal budget since joining the Liberal caucus, Sarnia-Lambton-Bkejwanong MP Marilyn Gladu is touting major investments for the region, despite growing concerns over global economic pressures and high deficit levels.
Gladu highlighted the $22 billion in the budget for new affordability measures.
"I think that there are lots of ways that we're trying to help Canadians through this difficult time," said Gladu. "One interesting thing that was in there for me - we have a lot of seniors in Sarnia - so there will be an eight per cent increase in OAS [Old Age Security] next year, and five per cent the year after that."
She also emphasized the Liberal government's plan to end homelessness within 10 years by building supportive housing and increasing mental health and addiction support.
Locally, the federal spending plan earmarks money from the Build Communities Strong Fund for the Bright's Grove Library expansion project, and renews available support for Sarnia-Lambton PrideFest.
The projected budget deficit for 2026-27 is $62.3 billion, which Finance Minister Francois-Phillipe Champagne said was $3 billion lower than the figure in the spring economic statement. However, Canada will carry a deficit of at least $50 billion per year through 2030-31.
Gladu said while she's concerned about high levels of deficit, the challenge now is that the trade war and conflicts in Iran and Ukraine are driving costs up globally.
"And I think we just have to make sure we continue to support Canadian companies, Canadian small businesses, and Canadian individuals while we get through this tough space, and then I see a plan on the part of the prime minister to balance the operating budget by next year, and to take action over time to reduce that deficit," she said.
Gladu, who became a member of the Liberal government this past spring, said she enjoyed the experience of being in the lockup and hearing from the Finance Minister.
"I really enjoyed the experience," she said. "Certainly it's a 500-page budget, so there's lots in there and he did say it was good news and there was something in it for everyone, and I think that's true."
The Conservatives have already pledged to vote against the budget.
With files from Natalia Vega
