Budget 2018: Equality and Growth for the Middle Class in Mississauga East-Cooksville

(Mississauga) Monday, March 5, 2018 — The Government of Canada is building on its successful long-term plan that focuses on people and on the things that matter most to Canadians.

Providing all Canadians with opportunities to participate fully in the economy is not only the right thing to do, it is the smart thing to do—leading to stronger growth for the middle class and those working hard to join it.

The Government is introducing measures that ensure the well-being of all Canadians. Older adults and seniors can retire with a peace of mind about their finances and wellbeing. Veterans can transition into civilian life, while fresh graduates can join the workforce and make a change.

Now is the right time to build an economy that truly reflects the diversity of our country, where all Canadians can contribute to—and share in—Canada’s prosperity.

This past weekend, MP Peter Fonseca was in Mississauga to highlight Budget 2018 – Equality + Growth: A Strong Middle Class – the Government’s people-centered plan to strengthen the middle class and support economic growth.

Speaking to a group of residents, MP Peter Fonseca discussed how the Government is making new investments through Budget 2018 that ensure every Canadian has an equal chance at success.

“I welcome the Government announcing the creation of an Advisory Council on the Implementation of National Pharmacare. It’s about time we are given more access to affordable medications.”

– Linda Ferguson, Reg.N.

“As a woman entrepreneur, I’m proud our Government is taking steps to close the gender wage gap.”

– Basanti Massey, Former Restaurateur

Through Budget 2018, the Government will:

· Make significant progress towards equality, by supporting equal parenting, addressing the gender wage gap, taking action against gender-based violence and introducing a new Women Entrepreneurship Strategy.

· Put more money in the pockets of those who need it the most, by improving access to the Canada Child Benefit – over 3.3 million families are receiving more than $23 billion helping them give children a good start in life. Additionally, by introducing the new Canada Workers Benefit, low-income earners on average will receive $500 more than they did with the previous benefit.

· Every year, more than one million Canadians give up food and heat to afford medicine. The Government is announcing with Budget 2018 the creation of an Advisory Council on the Implementation of National Pharmacare. The Advisory Council will recommend options to reduce costs and increase affordability of prescription medications.

· Housing for women and children escaping family violence, as part of the first ever National Housing Strategy, that gives more Canadians a safe and affordable place to call home. To help more Canadians find safe and affordable places to call home, and to protect those already living in community housing from being displaced, the Government is implementing a comprehensive National Housing Strategy.

#YourBudget2018

“Real Change is working. I’m happy to see policies which are aimed to strengthen the quality of life in Mississauga East–Cooksville. Together we are building a nation where we all have an equal opportunity to succeed.”

– Peter Fonseca, MP Mississauga East–Cooksville

“Oh Canada! Prime Minister Trudeau’s budget — and the smart, women-centered policy that guides it — is leadership in action. Words alone can be cheap, but words written into budgets are worth their weight in lives saved, and worthy of praise. We are grateful for your leadership today, and for what we know Canada will help the world deliver at the G7 this Spring.” – Bono, lead singer of U2 and co-founder of The ONE Campaign

The Royal Canadian Legion is encouraged by the commitments in this year’s federal budget in areas of importance to Veterans and their families. “The investments outlined are a step in the right direction.” says Dominion President, David Flannigan. – The Royal Canadian Legion