Canadians Divided on Freeland's Economic Update, Citing Healthcare and Tax Gaps

Canadians have expressed mixed views on Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland's recent economic update and plan. According to an Ipsos poll conducted for Global News, certain measures such as investments in summer jobs and student loans have received positive feedback. However, several omissions in the plan, particularly the absence of new healthcare investments and tax reductions, have sparked concern and criticism.

Positively received measures included an $800 million investment in summer and youth employment, over $1.28 billion to expedite natural resource and energy project approvals, and making Canada Student Loans permanently interest-free. Enhancements to the Canada Workers Benefit and tax credits supporting investments in renewable energy and electric vehicles also garnered support.

Conversely, significant gaps in the plan generated negative sentiment. Nearly all respondents (79%) viewed the lack of new healthcare investments as negative. A substantial majority (62%) considered the failure to reduce GST, carbon, or gas taxes as bad news. Furthermore, no savings or new funds were identified to reduce the deficit or pay down national debt, and the absence of a windfall tax on corporations also drew criticism.

Demographic data revealed differing opinions. For instance, men were more positive than women regarding the lack of healthcare investment and tax reductions. Regional disparities were also noted, with Atlantic Canadians expressing particular concern over the absence of tax relief. Younger demographics (18-34) were more inclined to see the lack of healthcare and debt reduction investments, as well as tax cuts, as positive, while still supporting new investments.

The poll surveyed 1,005 Canadians between November 11 and 14, 2022.