Mr. Speaker, I will be sharing my time with the member for Vancouver Centre.
It is with pride and conviction that I rise to express my support for the 2025 federal budget. It is a budget that reflects our Liberal government's vision, priorities and values: building a fairer and more prosperous Canada for all. This budget represents a solid, pragmatic and results-driven plan that is designed to improve the lives of Canadians today while preparing our country for the challenges of tomorrow.
The budget contains bold choices and tough choices, but these choices are necessary in the current global climate to protect our families, our workers, our businesses and our communities, as well as to preserve our dignity and territorial integrity.
The global context remains complex. The international economy is marred by geopolitical tensions, trade disruptions and the lingering impacts of climate change. Although these realities create uncertainty, they also create opportunities, such as the opportunity to rethink our economy, strengthen our industrial sovereignty and invest in what makes Canada strong—our collective know-how, solidarity and talent. In this context, our government made a clear choice to take action, protect purchasing power, stimulate growth and accelerate the transition to a more sustainable economy. This budget shows that it is possible to reconcile fiscal responsibility with social ambition.
We know that the cost of living continues to be a major concern for Canadians. That is why our government continues to support families through targeted measures such as enhanced tax credits, the continuation of the carbon tax rebate for households and increased investments in affordable housing.
The 2025 budget includes tax incentives to speed up the construction of new housing, whether family homes, community homes or affordable rental buildings. We are also making it easier for developers and municipalities to access financing in order to reduce delays and boost construction.
In my riding of Alfred-Pellan, these measures will result in concrete projects: more housing, more construction jobs and genuine relief for families struggling to find housing. Affordable housing is more than an economic need; it is a fundamental right.
Canadian workers are key to our prosperity. Budget 2025 strengthens training and re-skilling programs so that everyone can benefit from the new economy.
We are introducing a refundable tax credit for personal support workers equal to 5% of their eligible income, up to a maximum of $1,100 per year. This measure recognizes the essential role that these professionals play, especially in the lives of our seniors and vulnerable people.
In addition, $97 million will be provided over five years to establish a fund to speed up foreign credential recognition in sectors experiencing labour shortages, like health care and construction. This will allow more skilled newcomers to enter the workforce quickly and contribute to our country's growth and vitality.
Finally, we are expanding the Red Seal training program and supporting innovation in union training to prepare our youth and workers for sustainable, well-paying jobs. These initiatives will help meet the growing demand for labour while strengthening Canadians' competitive and determined position.
Innovation remains central to our government's economic strategy. Budget 2025 modernizes the scientific research and experimental development tax credit, an essential tool for stimulating research and innovation in our businesses.
Eligibility thresholds are raised for small businesses. Certain measures are extended to public companies, and capital expenditures are reintroduced. These changes will encourage applied research, the commercialization of new technologies and the creation of quality jobs in strategic sectors.
We know that Canada's competitiveness also depends on the energy transition. That is why this budget invests in clean technologies, hydrogen, sustainable manufacturing and electric vehicle production.
In September, our government announced targeted regulatory adjustments to help the auto sector stay competitive in the face of U.S. trade disruptions. By eliminating the 2026 target, we are enabling a more realistic and sustainable transition, while supporting auto manufacturers and workers. This is a responsible decision that protects jobs, the environment and Canadian competitiveness. These strategic investments position Canada as a global leader in the fight against climate change, while creating sustainable jobs by stimulating growth in our regions.
Our government recognizes that complex tax rules can be a barrier for Canadians and businesses. That is why budget 2025 introduces targeted adjustments to indirect taxes and the tax treatment of loyalty programs to simplify the system and make it more transparent. These adjustments will encourage consumption, promote investment and enable businesses to better plan for growth. A simpler tax system means more clarity for households and more confidence in our economic institutions.
These adjustments will make life easier for hundreds of thousands of Canadians whose tax situations are not complex. Think of students, like Massimo in my riding, who does not have time to file a tax return, or seniors, like Thérèse and André, whose only income comes from old age security and who struggle to access online services.
In a time of global uncertainty, our government is showing discipline. Every dollar invested is aimed at generating tangible economic benefits and strengthening the resilience of our economy. That is why, in budget 2025, we are reaffirming our commitment to buying Canadian. By supporting Canadian businesses, workers and products, we can maximize the impact of every public investment and support local supply chains.
Our priority is clear: to support the population without compromising the country's financial stability. This balanced approach sets Canada apart on the international stage and strengthens market confidence in our economy.
This budget will have a meaningful impact on our communities. For Alfred-Pellan, the budget means more jobs in construction and innovation, better access to housing and new opportunities for young people and families. Small and medium-sized businesses in Laval will benefit from new tax credits for research and clean production, promoting local investment and the creation of quality jobs. Thanks to Build Canada Homes, these benefits will be felt across the country. Even a single project can generate orders for steel in Hamilton, concrete in Calgary and heavy equipment rentals in Laval. This is proof positive that federal investments support the entire Canadian economic chain, from manufacturers to workers on the ground.
This budget charts a course for an inclusive, innovative and resilient Canada. It supports families, strengthens the middle class and invests in sectors of the future. It embodies our government's deep conviction that when we invest in people, we build lasting prosperity. Every measure, whether training, housing, innovation or the green transition, is designed to give Canadians the tools they need to succeed.
The 2025 federal budget is not just a fiscal plan. It is a vision for the future. It reflects our commitment to building a country where every citizen, every community and every region can thrive. It shows that solidarity, responsibility and innovation are the foundation of Canadian progress. With this budget, our Liberal government is confirming its commitment to building a stronger, fairer and more sustainable Canada.
Together, let us continue to build a future where generations to come can live in prosperity, security and confidence.