Government should address Canadians’ priorities: NDP

OTTAWA – The Harper government’s Throne Speech today was out of step with the priorities of Canadians, according to Opposition Leader Jack Layton.

“Unfortunately, today’s Throne Speech failed to really address many key issues – like improving access to frontline health care, providing focused support to business who create jobs and ensuring Canadians can afford to retire,” said Layton. “Four-and-a-half million Canadians voted for change, but the Throne Speech didn’t deliver the change they need.”

Layton said New Democrats were happy to see the government’s intention to include $2.2 billion in HST compensation for Quebec in their budget, a demand the NDP made repeatedly in the last Parliament.

“We’re inviting the government to work with us and get results on the key issues facing Canadian families,” said Layton. “With crucial health care negotiations just around the corner, we need to see a federal commitment to work with the provinces to bring down prescription drug costs, hire more doctors and nurses and reduce wait times.”

The Conservatives did again promise to move forward with very minor Senate reform. This promise comes on the heels of Stephen Harper slapping Canadians in the face by appointing three failed Conservative candidates to the Senate – just weeks after voters rejected them.

“Stephen Harper promises reform, but refuses to stop his Senators from doing partisan work on the public dime. And two Conservative Senators are even facing charges for breaking the Elections Act,” concluded Layton. “Canadians deserve better.”