Federal budget disappoints Falk

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This article was published 23/03/2016 (2948 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Provencher MP Ted Falk saw few positives in the release of the Liberal government’s first budget on Tuesday.

Most concerning to the local Conservative MP was how the new government seems quite willing to break its election promises.

Most strikingly, rather than the deficit of $10 billion which the Liberals committed to in last year’s campaign, Falk expressed concern the budget deficit will reach nearly $30 billion.

He also pointed out the Liberals have also reneged on a commitment to lower the small business tax, something he recalled all parties agreeing was a positive move during the campaign.

“As Conservatives we believe small businesses are the drivers of the Canadian economy,” he said.

Liberals measures such as stripping away income splitting options for taxpayers and the elimination of arts and sports tax credits also earned criticism from Falk.

He did offer support for the increase being made to child benefits which will, he said, particularly assist lower income families.

“I think that’s a good thing,” he acknowledged, while saying supports for lower income seniors will also be appreciated.

A shift away from hard infrastructure towards green initiatives was also worrisome, he suggested. As was the lack of mention of support for agriculture or the energy sector. Falk wondered why funding increases for things like a boost of $675 million for CBC are being implemented, while efforts to fight terrorism will only see an $8 million investment.

Falk said debate on the budget is expected next week. Plans to begin debate were put on hold after the sudden death of Conservative MP Jim Hillver, who Falk praised as a hardworking member of their team and a friend.