“I want to accuse the government of causing Canada's recession.”
What they said. What they meant.
Plain-language translations from the House of Commons.
Recent debates
8 latest topics
Spring Economic Update 2026 Implementation Act
57 statements
Spring Economic Update 2026 Implementation Act
19 statements
Arab Heritage Month Act
5 statements
The Economy
15 statements
Government Priorities
2 statements
Government Priorities
2 statements
Housing
12 statements
The Environment
2 statements
Oral Questions
The Economy
The Conservatives pressed the Liberals on Canada being the only G20 country in a recession under the current Prime Minister's leadership. The Liberals highlighted positive economic metrics like job growth and low unemployment while accusing the Conservatives of talking down the economy. Much of the debate consisted of partisan bickering, talking points, and personal attacks rather than substantive discussion of fiscal policy or solutions.
“You're focusing on the bad news, but I want to focus on the good news. Job numbers are up. We're investing in lots of different programs. I think our plan is working.”
“I'm new here, but I don't like how the government is celebrating. Fewer people have jobs than before. I don't think the government cares about that. Why are you cheering for bad news?”
“I want to cheer for anything good. Some people have jobs. Women have jobs. That's good. Let's celebrate that. Not everything is bad.”
“I want to make the Prime Minister look bad. The numbers are bad. He spent a lot on flights and food. Now people have less money. I want you to think he doesn't care. Is he hiding a recession?”
“I want to change the subject. I don't like your repeated questions. They are fake. The government is giving people money. You are against it. You pretend to care. We really care.”
“You are giving Canadians almost nothing. The economy is falling apart. The government can't even meet its own tiny targets. The Prime Minister should stop eating fancy desserts and tell us what kind of recession we are in.”
“I like my friend across the aisle. Too bad he has to throw insults. We're going to stay positive. Look at all the new jobs. Many in construction. That's good for his riding. Let's build the country up. We have a plan.”
“I think the government messed up. Why won't you admit that you caused the only recession in the G20? Your own reports say you're already breaking your fiscal anchor. Will you keep pretending it's just a technicality?”
“You Conservatives are hypocrites. You vote against affordability measures, then complain about affordability. You talk down the economy while we try to find solutions. The US is our largest trading partner, so of course we're impacted. We're building infrastructure and trade corridors. Stop being so negative and join us in believing in Canada and Canadians.”
“The government is borrowing even more money than we thought. It's recklessness will lead Canada into an even bigger financial hole. The finance minister should admit this.”
“We have to do things and say they are working. Jobs numbers exist. Look, a benefit for some families! We are helping.”
“Canada's economy is bad because of the Prime Minister. The government should stop cheap Chinese aluminum to protect Canadian jobs. What will the Prime Minister say to workers?”
“Our government knows there are problems. We're talking to the Americans. Unrelated good news: jobs! We won't ignore the problems though. We'll spend money to help. But also we're growing the economy everywhere!”