Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne recently visited Montreal as part of his post-budget tour, engaging in discussions with business leaders to highlight the federal government’s economic focus.
During a dynamic armchair discussion hosted by the Fédération des chambres de commerce du Québec (FCCQ) and the Chambre de commerce du Montréal métropolitain (CCMM), led by Véronique Proulx, president and CEO of FCCQ, Champagne emphasized the importance of the budget. This budget features significant new net spending of almost $90 billion over five years, alongside a $78 billion deficit for the current year. The minister stressed that this budget is designed to support entrepreneurs, innovators, and creators.
Speaking to a room filled with influential business figures, Champagne extended a call to action, urging them to be active participants in shaping the economic landscape: “I’ve set the tone, now I need each and every one of you.”
He highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting infrastructure projects following requests from municipal leaders across Canada. Notably, federal involvement in health infrastructure is set to begin, with investments aimed at modernizing hospitals and clinics.
Addressing pressing issues such as housing, Champagne emphasized the government’s efforts to tackle housing challenges in Montreal, rural areas, and across the province through strategic investments.
In terms of economic growth, the minister outlined a plan for transformative investments intended to boost the Canadian economy, create well-paying jobs, and empower workers. He specifically mentioned opportunities in Quebec’s defence sector, citing the potential for economic growth and technological advancement for both large companies and SMEs.
A key focus of the discussion was on the importance of buying locally, particularly in the defence sector. Highlighting the government’s substantial planned investment in defence, Champagne underscored the economic potential for various industries, including quantum computing, artificial intelligence, aerospace, and security.
Moreover, the minister emphasized the significance of immigration as a sustainability issue, pointing to measures in the budget aimed at providing pathways to permanent residency for long-standing temporary foreign workers and their families.
Champagne placed these investments within the context of the global economy, acknowledging the challenges posed by international dynamics while underscoring Canada’s fiscal strength and commitment to prudent financial management.
Recognizing Quebec’s critical role in the broader federal strategy, Champagne emphasized the importance of developing domestic industries to enhance the province and country’s competitiveness in the evolving global economy.
Keyphrase: Economic Priorities
