Carney government proposes C$142.1B in Budget 2026

Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government presented its 2026 federal budget on November 5, proposing C$142.1 billion in spending and tax breaks over multiple years as it seeks to attract investment and respond to economic pressures. The plan includes a projected C$62.3 billion deficit for 2026-27, C$3 billion less than forecast in the government’s April update. The budget combines investment incentives with measures for infrastructure, defence and industries affected by tariffs. It also addresses affordability and technology, though the headline spending and tax-break figure describes proposals rather than money already spent. The government projects total spending of C$603 billion in 2026-27. Among the technology measures, Ottawa proposes C$176.3 million over five years, followed by C$29.3 million annually, to establish a Digital Safety and Data Protection Commission. The proposed body would oversee requirements under Bill C-34, the Safe Social Media Act. Its creation and mandate remain subject to legislation. The budget also sets out plans for telecom anti-fraud legislation. Ottawa intends to consult before introducing the bill, with further details expected in 2027. The...