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François-Philippe Champagne

Liberal on The Budget

Replying to Gabriel Ste-Marie (Bloc Québécois)
“Mr. Speaker, this budget does not reimburse Quebec for the costs it has incurred in taking in asylum seekers, which represents approximately $700 million. Ottawa has been dragging its feet on this issue since 2024. Ottawa is also staying the course with its plan to reduce the annual escalator on health transfers from 5% to 3% starting in 2028, even though Quebec is calling for an increase in health care funding. Quebec cannot afford a federal budget cut in health care. On the one hand, Ottawa is reducing Quebec’s fiscal room by $1 billion a year through its mega deduction. On the other hand, it is reducing its financial contribution to health care. Ottawa is undermining Quebec’s financial independence. Ottawa is investing heavily in the symbolism of its “Canada strong” agenda as a way of pushing back against Quebec nationalism, yet it has no money to repay what it owes Quebec. Why did the government not listen to or consult Quebec?”

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Mr. Speaker, I have a great deal of respect for my colleague. I have known him for a very long time. However, I can say that, on this side of the House, with more than 40 members from Quebec, we have a strong voice for Quebec. I listened to Quebeckers. That is why we are investing in our artists, in our culture and in our SMEs, which from the backbone of Quebec’s economy. That is why we renewed funding for mental health. Instead of criticizing, my colleague should join us and applaud what we have done to help all Canadians. This will benefit Quebeckers. The Bloc Québécois even talked about the Canada groceries and essentials benefit. We are here for Canadians, and we have enhanced that benefit. We will always be here for Quebeckers.