Sophie Chatel discusses federal budget

Sophie Chatel discusses federal budget

Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland presented the 2023 federal budget yesterday (March 28), with funds allocated for green energy production, dental care and mental health care.

CHIP 101.9 spoke with Pontiac MP Sophie Chatel about this year’s budget and some of the aspects that would have an impact on residents of the Pontiac region.

One of the major new programs in the federal budget is an expanded dental care program for people below a certain income threshold. Chatel explained that the program would be rolled out gradually, including those under 18 year of age, and those with disabilities this year, and expanding to all ages next year.

Chatel also discussed her government’s plan to allocate billions in tax credits for investment in green energy and technologies.

One other aspect of the budget was an allocation of tens of millions for the RCMP to combat foreign interference and espionage, as well as more funds for a national Counter-Intelligence Office. This comes as reporting in the Globe and Mail as well as Global News has alleged interference in Canadian politics by the Chinese government.  Chatel was asked why her government was investing such funds at this point in time.

The full interview with Chatel (14m25) is available here.