Today the honourable Bill Morneau, Minister of Finance, tabled the 2018 budget of the federal government. At first glance, Larry Miller, Member of Parliament for Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound, believes this budget fails Canadians when it comes to deficit spending, the federal debt, and infrastructure spending.
"At first glance, it would appear as though the government has dropped the ball yet again when it comes to returning in Canada to balanced budgets," said Miller. "In the election, the Liberals promised annual deficits below $10 billion and a return to balanced budgets by 2019.Their first budget, in 2016, blew that promise out of the water. This budget commits to another deficit of $18 billion "this year and more deficits for years to come."
Miller noted that he is disappointed that the budget does not contain any commitments to ensuring that infrastructure funding gets to intended projects.

"In terms of infrastructure, this is the Government's third budget and they have been unable to get funding out the door to projects in need. All this budget offers is a line stating that they will be "finalizing negotiations with the provinces" They've had years to get these agreements in place. It's time for action. The residents of Chesley know all too well what a lack of infrastructure funding can result in."

Funding and programs such as $250 million over two years for Small Craft Harbours, $100 million over five years for rural broadband, and a new lending product to be offered by Farm Credit Canada to encourage women to enter the agricultural sector are all welcomed by Miller as important initiatives.

Miller also said that he will be reviewing the budget in further detail to ensure that organizations and projects in Bruce -Grey-Owen Sound are able to access funding.

For more information on budget 2018 please visit https://www.budget.gc.ca/2018/home-accueil-en.html

source: statement from office of MP Larry Miller