A federal budget at a serious time

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Dear Friends,

I’ve said many times over the past few months that we are living in a serious moment – a time of financial volatility and geopolitical instability.

In January the Business Council urged the federal government to meet the moment by delivering a budget that would strengthen Canada’s economic security and improve the ability of Canadian companies to compete globally.

Yesterday’s budget contained elements of such a strategy.
 
But the worsening fiscal picture leaves me concerned about Canada’s future growth prospects.

It will be vitally important for the government and private sector to work together with clear vision and purpose if we want to grow the economy.

Goldy Hyder
President and CEO
Business Council of Canada

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In January we asked you what top issue you thought the federal budget should address. The top three issues from your responses were:

• Canadian competitiveness
• Fiscal prudence
• Climate change

Thanks to everyone who responded to our survey.

Addressing climate change while preparing for the energy transition is one of the foremost and urgent public policy challenges facing Canada.
Earlier this month, the BCC released a major new report that sets out how the public and private sectors can work together on a coherent national climate strategy. The report offers practical recommendations to drive the country’s economic and environmental security.

Season Six of Speaking of Business with Goldy Hyder is in full swing, featuring topical and thoughtful conversations with Canadian innovators, entrepreneurs and business leaders.
In our latest episode, Parkland CEO Bob Espey offers unique insight into the future of automobiles and service stations in a world that is transitioning to alternative energy sources. In February, CN Rail’s Tracy Robinson reflected on Canada’s role in a changing world.