Question Period – October 31, 2024
News & Politics
Introduction
On October 31, 2024, significant discussions took place during the Question Period in the Canadian House of Commons, highlighting concerns surrounding the economy, housing, and public services. The Leader of the Opposition criticized the government's performance, pointing out that Canada’s economic growth was a mere 1% in the latest quarter, much lower than expectations and notably lagging behind the U.S. This marked the eighth decline in per capita GDP out of the past nine quarters—the worst performance among G7 countries.
The Minister of Public Works and Procurement countered these criticisms by citing a reduction in interest rates and inflation, asserting that employment rates were also down. However, the Opposition highlighted the struggles of working Canadians, many of whom faced shrinking paychecks and soaring housing costs attributed to the government’s economic policies over the past nine years.
The debate touched on various government initiatives, including the proposed cutting of the GST on new homes, which the Opposition termed a "Common Sense plan." The Minister of Public Services noted criticisms aimed at the Conservative Party regarding their past record on housing, suggesting they were out of touch with the realities of Canadian life.
The Question Period also included discussions about the Liberal government's handling of senior citizens' benefits and the growing number of Canadians relying on food banks. Issues surrounding carbon taxes were frequently raised by Conservative members, who argued these taxes were exacerbating the cost of living for Canadian families.
Furthermore, the discussions revealed tensions within the government concerning the efficacy of current initiatives, including the Canada Dental Care Plan and investments in housing. MPs challenged one another on their respective plans and the repercussions of their proposed policies, culminating in a plea from several Members for a more effective response to the pressing needs of their constituents.
The session closed with inquiries about foreign interference in Canada and public safety, underscoring the ongoing threats to Canadian sovereignty and security.
Keywords
- Economic Growth
- Housing Costs
- Public Services
- Per Capita GDP
- Conservative Party
- Carbon Tax
- Canada Dental Care Plan
- Foreign Interference
- Food Banks
FAQ
What was the economic growth rate reported during the Question Period?
The economic growth rate reported was just 1%.
How does Canada's economic growth compare to the U.S.?
Canada's economic growth was one-third lower than expected and significantly lower than the United States, which has been performing much better.
What are the concerns related to the housing market discussed during the session?
Concerns include rising housing costs, the ineffectiveness of current government housing initiatives, and proposals to cut the GST on new homes.
What did the Opposition propose as a solution for the housing crisis?
The Opposition proposed cutting the GST on new home sales to make housing more affordable for Canadians.
What other pressing issues were raised during the Question Period?
Issues concerning senior citizens’ benefits, the rising number of Canadians using food banks, and the implications of the carbon tax were discussed, along with concerns over foreign interference.