In April 2021, Canadian Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland presented her first federal budget. Titled “A Recovery Plan for Jobs, Growth, and Resilience,” the budget outlines the government’s plan to guide Canada through the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and towards economic recovery.

The budget proposes a record-high deficit of $354.2 billion for 2020-2021, with investments in areas such as childcare, climate change, and healthcare. It also includes measures to support workers and businesses, including an extension of the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy and new programs to help workers transition to greener jobs. Additionally, there is a focus on long-term growth through investments in infrastructure and innovation, with the goal of creating more robust, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth for Canadians.

Overall, Chrystia Freeland’s budget aims to provide immediate relief to those who have been impacted by the pandemic while also setting the foundation for long-term economic growth. However, critics have raised concerns about the record-high deficit and the potential consequences it may have on future generations. As Canadians continue to navigate the challenges brought on by the pandemic, the impact of this budget will be closely watched and debated.