The rising cost of living in Canada due to carbon pricing measures is set to be a major topic of discussion at this week’s meeting of the country’s premiers and territorial leaders in Halifax. Last month, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced a three-year pause on carbon pricing for home fuel oil and an expansion of a grant program to assist lower-income Canadians with the installation of heat pumps. However, this relief only applies to the 10 jurisdictions where federal fuel charges apply, excluding British Columbia, Quebec, and the Northwest Territories, which collect their own fuel tax.
British Columbia Premier David Eby expressed his dissatisfaction with this unequal distribution of cost relief. He criticized the lack of a clear path for British Columbia in terms of providing free heat pumps to those facing similar situations. Ontario Premier Doug Ford also voiced his opposition to the carbon tax, calling on the federal government to completely eliminate it nationwide.
The premiers are gathering in Halifax for the Council of the Federation meetings, where discussions will cover various topics, including bail reform, health care, and Alberta’s proposal to withdraw from the Canada Pension Plan. Newly elected Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew highlighted the focus on “fixing health care and lowering costs” for families. However, Quebec Premier Francois Legault will not be able to attend due to a scheduling conflict, coinciding with a strike day in Quebec.
Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston stated that health care is the primary formal agenda item for the meetings. The discussions will explore health care innovations and potential solutions to the challenges facing the health system. Recruitment of health professionals and the competition among provinces for the same pool of workers will also be addressed. Mr. Houston requested his health department to stop recruiting from other provinces, emphasizing the availability of qualified individuals worldwide.
Mr. Eby also highlighted British Columbia’s priorities, including the need to collaborate with other provinces and territories to avoid depleting each other’s staff. The province aims to coordinate training and hiring of medical professionals. Housing, which contributes to the cost-of-living challenges, is another important area that requires greater federal support.
In addition to health care, Premier Ford emphasized the presence of labor shortages in other sectors and the necessity for immigration policies that attract skilled workers. Economic infrastructure and strengthening the domestic supply chain were also identified as areas requiring increased federal support.