Scot Davidson

“Mr. Speaker, I also want to echo what the member said and say good morning. I did not realize that it was past midnight already, so I appreciate the reminder. I also want to thank the member for bringing Margaret’s letter to the House. I think, as a representative of the House, it is one of the tools we can use to bring the voices of our constituents to this prestigious institution, so I thank my colleague across the aisle for bringing that letter. Margaret’s concerns are valid. There are a lot of challenges given the current unstable economic environment and given the trade situation we have with the United States. However, I think it is also important to recognize that it is time to work together to really focus on building Canada strong and building an economy that is really resilient. That is where we are making strategic investments in housing and infrastructure to secure that long-term prosperity for our country. We want to ensure, and we are doing the work to ensure, that Canadians have the opportunities they need to succeed by building that stronger economy and lowering the cost of living. That is where the member and I may disagree a bit. He may see some of the measures as handouts, where I see them truly as supports to help families, young people and seniors get through a tough period while we build a better and brighter future. Let me maybe expand on the point of affordability. Our government understand that affordability affects every segment of our life, whether young families can buy a home, workers can afford to commute to work or small businesses can continue to operate and maintain jobs. That is why making life more affordable for Canadians is at the centre of our economic plan. We are not relying on a one-size-fits-all solution. We have introduced targeted measures that address specific pressures such as housing, fuel and groceries while protecting long-term stability. Extending the repayment grace period under the RRSP homebuyers’ plan helps Canadians to enter the housing market with confidence. Tax relief on gasoline and diesel deliver broad-based cost savings across our economy. We are starting the automatic federal benefits for the 2026 tax year with pre-filled returns for up to 5.5 million low-income Canadians by the tax year 2028, ensuring that support will reach those who need it the most. Young Canadians are gaining the opportunity to work and build careers. Through Canada summer jobs, we have had 175,000 placements supported in 2026-27. There is the horizontal youth employment skill strategy and the student work placement program. Families and young people are travelling and exploring Canada for less through the Canada strong pass. Most recently, our government announced that the temporary suspension of the federal fuel excise tax on gasoline, diesel fuel and aviation fuels would be extended to 2027. This will bring down everyday costs for Canadians, including truckers and businesses in the food, agriculture, housing, construction and delivery sectors. These examples demonstrate how our government has been taking responsible actions to make life more affordable for families and communities across Canada, including Margaret’s family.”