(Ottawa) Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland said the government’s fall economic update will focus on housing and affordability, while maintaining a fiscally responsible framework.
At a press conference on Tuesday, Mr.me Freeland acknowledged that it would be difficult to find a balance, but assured that the Liberals are committed to it.
The federal government’s financial statements were released on Tuesday, revealing that the deficit for the 2022-2023 fiscal year stood at $35.3 billion.
This is 7.7 billion less than that planned in the spring budget.
The President of the Treasury Board, Anita Anand, who was present with Mr.me Freeland at the press conference welcomed the smaller-than-expected deficit.
“This is excellent news,” said M.me Anand. This shows that, as we did during COVID, we can reorient and refocus our priorities to reduce our deficit. »
The federal government is facing pressure to limit spending after the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly as the economy slows.
However, he also faces considerable pressure to solve the national housing crisis, as polls show support for the ruling Liberals taking a hit.