Stephen Harper’s budget helps those who need it least

April 21, 2015

OTTAWA – Stephen Harper’s tenth budget gives the most to Canadians who need it the least. It is time for a better plan that invests in jobs and growth for the middle class and those working hard to join it, said Liberals today.

“Canadian families deserve a real and fair chance at success, but Mr. Harper’s priority is $2 billion for income splitting and doubling the TFSA limit. In fact, he is paying for this TFSA increase by taking away tens of thousands of dollars in Old Age Security from seniors,” said the Leader of the Liberal Party of Canada, Justin Trudeau. “These proposals will benefit the rich on the backs of the middle class, and that’s simply not fair.”

Under Mr. Harper, Canadian incomes have stagnated, the Conservatives have run deficits, and $150 billion has been added to the national debt. Unemployment last year – including youth unemployment – was higher than before the recession. After promising balance in 2013, today Canadians learned that Mr. Harper has still not balanced the budget.

“Leadership is about helping those who need it most. But even in this tight budget, Mr. Harper finds ways to give billions to the rich,” said Mr. Trudeau. “Canadian families are looking for investments that will produce real growth, particularly through infrastructure, trade, post-secondary education, and skills and innovation. Canada needs a better plan focused on strengthening the heart of our economy, the middle class.”