The Canadian Government under Justin Trudeau’s Liberals has been taking a different approach towards budget deficit compared to the conservative politicians and pundits who prioritize fiscal responsibility. This approach has proven successful in the past, as it propelled the Liberal campaign in 2015 and helped them win a majority government. The latest budget shows that the government is continuing with this approach, despite the concerns of fiscal hawks.
Clean Energy Mandate and the Budget
One of the key strategies the government is using to stimulate economic growth is to provide tax credits to encourage investment in clean energy and low-carbon technology. These tax credits are worth upwards of $80 billion over the next decade and are aimed at keeping Canada competitive in this area. This is in line with the government’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change.
In addition to these tax credits, the government is also focused on providing relief for low-income earners through the expansion of the GST credit. This measure is part of the government’s efforts to reduce poverty and inequality in Canada. The disability tax credit is another measure aimed at helping Canadians with disabilities by providing them with additional financial support.
Despite these measures, the government’s spending has caused concerns among fiscal hawks, who worry about the impact on future generations. Last fall, the government predicted a $ 4.5 billion surplus by 2027. However, the current projections indicate a $ 14 billion deficit, which would result in a nearly $70 billion increase in Canada’s debt over the next five years. The spending is aimed at various priorities, including a $22-billion healthcare deal with the provinces and a $7-billion expanded dental care program.
Budget Deficit in Relation to GDP
The government argues that it would be reckless not to try and match the fiscal challenge posed by the Biden administration and its Inflation Reduction Act. Failure to do so could result in the loss of hundreds of thousands of jobs and billions in tax revenue. While critics like the Fraser Institute have accused the government of recklessness, Canada still has the lowest debt-to-GDP and deficit-to-GDP ratio in the G7, and both ratios are now on the decline after the COVID pandemic. According to economist Kevin Milligan, this suggests that tax increases may not be necessary to afford future public debt payments. The cost of servicing Canada’s debt is also expected to remain low, settling around 1.5 to 1.6 percent of GDP.
The political debate over the government’s spending priorities will continue, and the Conservatives may promise to balance the budget if they are elected. However, past elections have shown that Canadians may not be as invested in this issue as the Conservatives are. The government’s latest budget includes measures such as the disability tax credit and tax credits for debt consolidation, which could be more appealing to Canadians.
Debt consolidation is another area where the government is taking action to help Canadians manage their finances. With the average household debt in Canada reaching new highs, the government is offering tax credits for debt consolidation. These tax credits are aimed at helping Canadians reduce their debt burden and improve their financial stability.
Ultimately, it will be up to Canadians to decide whether they want a government that prioritizes fiscal responsibility or one that focuses on other priorities. The current government’s approach to deficits and debt has been successful in the past, but it has also been criticized by some for its impact on future generations. However, the government argues that its spending is necessary to address the challenges facing the country, including climate change, poverty, and inequality. With the next election on the horizon, Canadians will have the opportunity to weigh in on these issues and decide which direction they want the country to take.