Canada’s premiers are calling for stronger bail conditions to reduce violent crime as they gathered for a Council of the Federation meeting in Winnipeg. The premiers discussed the need to build stronger communities and address the shared public safety challenges posed by violent crime. Recent incidents, such as a stabbing on a Toronto subway, where the suspect was out on bail, have highlighted the issue. Manitoba Premier Heather Stefanson emphasized the urgency of better protection from repeat and dangerous offenders. Provinces are taking steps to improve public safety, but they need the federal government to follow through on Criminal Code reform.
In addition to public safety, other hot-button issues were discussed at the conference. Many provinces want more flexibility from the federal government in areas like energy, emissions, and healthcare. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith expressed concerns about the federal government’s interim targets for emissions reduction, such as making the electrical grid net-zero by 2035. She also highlighted the frustrations of phasing out coal and natural gas. The Council of Atlantic Premiers urged the federal government to reconsider new clean fuel regulations, which could result in increased costs for consumers. British Columbia Premier David Eby discussed the province’s energy challenges and the need to transition from fossil fuel usage.
Cost of living was another major concern raised by several premiers. Rising interest rates, housing costs, and inflation were identified as significant challenges. Ontario Premier Doug Ford emphasized the desperate need to build more housing to accommodate the province’s growing population. The premiers called for relief from increasing carbon taxes and a more collaborative approach to healthcare. While the federal government has committed to providing $46 billion in new healthcare funding over the next ten years, the premiers stressed the importance of additional measures, such as streamlining the recruitment of healthcare workers from abroad. A follow-up meeting is planned to further discuss healthcare and share best practices for recruitment, retention, and training of healthcare professionals across the country.