Premiers express disappointment over lack of consultation from Ottawa on 2024 budget

Canada’s premiers are up in arms over what they perceive as a lack of consultation by the federal government before tabling the 2024 budget. In a scathing letter released by the Council of the Federation, representing all 13 provincial and territorial premiers, concerns were raised about the impact of the budget on their respective plans and budgets.

The budget, unveiled by Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, includes $52.9 billion in new spending over five years, with a focus on housing and a projected $40 billion deficit for the fiscal year. The premiers expressed frustration over the lack of outreach from the federal government prior to the budget announcement, stating that the initiatives directly impact their own priorities.

The premiers fear that the financial burden of new federal programs will ultimately fall on the provinces and territories, increasing the strain on taxpayers. They called for a return to a cooperative approach between Ottawa and the provinces to promote affordability and productivity.

This clash between the federal government and the provinces is part of an ongoing battle over jurisdiction, with provinces like Alberta and Quebec accusing Ottawa of overreaching into areas such as housing and immigration. The premiers emphasized the need for Ottawa to respect their jurisdiction over key areas like health, education, and housing.

Despite the tensions, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed a willingness to work with the provinces but also emphasized the need to support Canadians, even if it means bypassing the premiers. The premiers did acknowledge the federal government’s commitment to increased defense spending, highlighting the potential positive impacts of the budget if implemented collaboratively.