“Quebeckers are hurting from US tariffs. I want the government to spend money on wage subsidies to help protect Quebec jobs.”
What they said. What they meant.
Plain-language translations from the House of Commons.
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Oral Questions
Small Business
The MPs argued about the government's financial support for small businesses affected by U.S. tariffs. The Bloc accused the aid of being poorly targeted and leaving the most vulnerable businesses behind, while the Liberals boasted about their $1.5 billion injection of cashflow support. The Bloc said more wage subsidies and direct support without debt are needed, not just loans.
“I want credit for our one-time bailout to manufacturers because of unfair US tariffs. Praise the government today because the Prime Minister announced a big aircraft order for Quebec's economy.”
“I want the wage subsidy to protect the most vulnerable businesses in Quebec. The current support is not enough. When support measures leave the most vulnerable behind, it's a failure.”
“The government is spending a lot of money to help businesses. Why won't you congratulate us? Support our programs; they will help everyone in Quebec.”
“I want the government to spend more money on small businesses. Subsidize their wages. Give them direct support without taking on debt. Otherwise they will close. The crisis is not over. We are just at the beginning. The government must act now. Will you agree to spend more taxpayer money to protect small businesses?”
“I want to look like I care about small businesses. So I will talk about how our government is spending money on them. $5 billion plus another $1.5 billion. That should be enough to make me look good. I want you to think we are helping.”