Despite a tardy Budget, the government has another chance
TORONTO – I am relieved, almost happy, that the first phase of Budget consideration and [eventual] approval is behind us, thanks to the vote of 170 to 168 reflecting “confidence” in the government’s budgetary plan. A matter of “principle” in the acceptance of the general direction in the government’s vision statement.
Things may not go so swimmingly when Supply Motions for implementation are presented and Members of Parliament start negotiations in the House for what to finance and how to distribute the monies.
Perhaps it is a little cynical of me, but in a national governance system that relies on giving substance to principle of “democracy” (voting and counting the numbers for and against) through an empowering election we would pay any attention to the argument that proposes to say: ”yes, but not during the Christmas holidays”. Or that “no one wants an election during the Winter holidays.
All partisanship aside, the government is a year late in presenting a Budget update that was due in the Fall of 2024 and eight months late in presenting a budget plan for 2026-27. Is that good or bad, initiative-taking, transparent or accommodating [for whom]?
Everyone seems to be aware that the head of the last government was not necessarily up to the task of shaping a team to develop a plan and to execute it in the face the challenges brought forward by the Trump Administration on a political-military front, on a manufacturing-research-innovation plan, and trade- infrastructure development agenda. This government has also been given a second chance to structure and implement a human resources plan for the next generation.
The real debate begins now.
