By Canadian Press

Federal budget the first important moment for NDP-Liberal pact, says finance critic

Apr 3, 2022 | 1:54 PM

OTTAWA — The NDP finance spokesman says his party is watching to see that spending pledges made in a deal with the Liberals are honoured by the government in this week’s federal budget. 

Daniel Blaikie says the budget is the first important moment for its confidence deal with the Liberals, which included several NDP priorities.  

He says the New Democrats want to see key elements of the deal, such as a $500 one-time top-up to Canada Housing Benefit, and more funding in dental care.

The NDP is also watching for more funding for Indigenous housing, home energy efficiency and moves toward a surtax on the profits of banks and insurance companies in the budget, which is expected to be tabled Thursday. 

Jagmeet Singh’s party agreed to support the Liberals stay in power until 2025 with a confidence and supply agreement that includes support for the Liberal budget.

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Blaikie said the NDP was disappointed there were not more revenue raising and tax fairness measures in the pact. 

This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 4, 2022. 

The Canadian Press