The Premiers of Canada’s Western provinces and territories recently gathered in Whitehorse, Yukon, to discuss pressing issues affecting their regions. Their primary focus was on economic growth, affordability, and collaboration with the federal government. This meeting highlighted several key concerns, including inflation, housing costs, and the need for federal support in various sectors. Let’s dive into the details of their discussions and the proposed solutions.
Tackling Affordability Challenges
Inflation and High Interest Rates
Western Premiers expressed significant concern over the impact of inflation and high interest rates on their residents. Rising food prices and housing costs are straining the budgets of many families. The Premiers emphasized the need for coordinated federal action to address these issues and provide relief to those most affected.
School Food Programs
One critical area of concern is the funding for school food programs. The Premiers called for meaningful federal engagement to ensure that funding aligns with provincial and territorial priorities. These programs are essential for helping students reach their learning potential, and consistent support from the federal government is crucial.
Housing Affordability
Housing affordability remains a major challenge across Western Canada. The Premiers discussed various strategies to increase housing supply and lower costs. While they acknowledged federal efforts, they stressed the importance of greater collaboration. Federal policies need to complement provincial and territorial investments to effectively address housing needs.
Long-term Funding Commitments
Programs like childcare, which are essential for many families, lack long-term federal funding commitments. The Premiers urged the federal government to renew partnerships and ensure adequate and flexible support beyond the current funding period, which ends in 2025/26. Long-term stability in funding is vital to prevent disruptions for parents, providers, and employers.
Enhancing Economic Prosperity and Indigenous Reconciliation
Infrastructure Investment
Western Premiers underscored the nation-building potential of infrastructure projects that connect Western Canada to the rest of the country and the world. They called for a fair share of federal dollars for infrastructure and economic development projects. Improving transportation infrastructure, in particular, is key to addressing the affordability crisis and enhancing international competitiveness.
Indigenous Economic Partnerships
Engaging Indigenous communities is fundamental to advancing strategic infrastructure projects and unlocking economic opportunities. The Premiers emphasized the need for strong economic development partnerships between Indigenous groups and the private sector. They called on the federal government to expedite the launch of the national Indigenous Loan Guarantee Program and ensure it aligns with existing provincial and territorial initiatives.
Labour Market and Skilled Workforce
Canada’s future prosperity relies on a skilled workforce. The Premiers expressed disappointment over the federal government’s decision to cut $625 million from Labour Market Transfer Agreements. These cuts negatively impact outcomes for Canadians, and the Premiers called for the restoration of this critical funding.
Securing Energy and Environmental Sustainability
Energy Security and Clean Energy
Western Canada plays a pivotal role in supplying the world with energy and resources produced to high sustainability standards. The Premiers stressed the importance of federal investment in energy infrastructure, including oil and gas, liquefied natural gas, uranium, and hydroelectricity. They also highlighted emerging opportunities in hydrogen, biofuels, and small modular nuclear reactors.
Climate Action and Federal Policies
As the world moves towards net-zero emissions, Canada has the potential to lead with its emission reduction technologies. The Premiers urged the federal government to work collaboratively to meet climate and energy targets. They called for swift advancement of legislation for clean energy and technology Investment Tax Credits and for recognizing regional differences in federal policies.
Strengthening Public Safety and Disaster Preparedness
Public Safety
Community safety is a top priority for Western Premiers. They are committed to keeping repeat violent offenders and drug traffickers off the streets. The Premiers called for further federal action on bail reform, support for rehabilitation, and addressing the underlying causes of recidivism.
Disaster Preparedness
Climate-related disasters are becoming more frequent and severe. The Premiers emphasized the need for disaster preparedness and response to ensure resilient communities. They called on the federal government to modernize the Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements and provide timely, accessible, and flexible support for disaster response and mitigation.
The Western Premiers’ meeting highlighted the critical need for federal collaboration in addressing economic growth and affordability challenges. From enhancing infrastructure and energy security to supporting public safety and disaster preparedness, the Premiers outlined a comprehensive approach to improving the quality of life for Western Canadians. As they look forward to future partnerships, the Premiers remain committed to working closely with the federal government to achieve these goals.
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