LETTER

Will Canada follow through in Budget 2019? 

In November, I participated in a pre-budget consultation hosted by our Member of Parliament, Greg Fergus. There were pre-budget consultations across the country,  hosted by the Finance Committee, of which Mr Fergus is a member.   I commend Mr Fergus and the Committee for their work in providing a forum for Canadians to be heard, and for the extra effort Mr Fergus made to hear from constituents in Hull-Aylmer.

Pre-budget hearings are an opportunity for the government to listen to Canadians about their priorities, but they’re only useful if taken seriously. Having heard Canadians, the Finance Committee has recommended that Trudeau get us on track to paying our fair share towards foreign assistance, starting with Budget 2019. This is the third time the Committee has made this recommendation.

Has Canada done its fair share to help the world’s poorest people?  We are actually at a lower level now than we were under the Harper government. 

Canada needs to live up to its international reputation and feminist rhetoric by following through with action. Annual 15% increases in aid starting next year is what it takes. Canada has a role to play on the world stage and we need to do our fair share. I know MP Greg Fergus will continue to bring this message to the PM and the Minister of Finance and help get Canada on track. 

Pat Dolan

Aylmer