New federal budget leaves farmers, forestry out of new tax break, MP Falk says

The federal government’s 2026 budget proposes $142.1 billion in new spending and projects a steady decline in the deficit.

Falk also criticized the Liberals for failing to commit to repealing energy policies she said continue to hold the industry back.

The budget includes expanded and extended tax credits to help implement the government’s national electricity strategy. Those measures are expected to cost nearly $40 billion in lost revenue.

Ottawa is also setting aside more than $500 million to encourage exports of Candu nuclear reactors.

Falk tied her criticism of federal spending and borrowing to concerns about household finances.

“I regularly hear from constituents who are worried about the rising cost of living. They want to know that when they work hard, they can afford a roof over their heads, put food on the table and have a little left over to get ahead,” she said.

Minister of Finance and National Revenue Francois-Philippe Champagne speaks at a press conference prior to tabling Budget 2026 in Ottawa, on Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026. (Image Credit: THE CANADIAN PRESS/Keito Newman)

She said the government would borrow $765 billion over the next five years, an amount she put at approximately $44,000 for every Canadian household.

Falk described interest on the national debt as the fastest-growing budget item and argued that the growing debt burden would put further pressure on inflation and interest rates.

“Nearly $60 billion will go to bankers and bondholders this year alone, rather than the priorities Canadians depend on,” she said.

She said Conservatives had called for lower fuel taxes, cuts to spending they consider wasteful and a reduction in debt as a share of the economy. She said those priorities were not met.

The budget also includes $610 million over four years for Nutrition North, a subsidy program intended to help offset high grocery prices in northern communities. Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, which represents Inuit in Canada, says the program has failed to improve food security and reduce prices.

Another $1.2 billion in 2027–28 would extend federal funding agreements with provinces and territories for mental health and addictions services, as well as home and community care.

Falk said Conservatives will vote against the budget.

“Budget 2026 fails to deliver,” she stated.

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cjnbnews@pattisonmedia.com

by battlefordsNOW staff

New federal budget leaves farmers, forestry out of new tax break, MP Falk says

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