Ontario Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy said the new federal budget did not go far enough to support infrastructure, job creation and relief for industries affected by U.S. tariffs.
Speaking to reporters at Queen’s Park, Bethlenfalvy said the plan from Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government “lacked ambition” and failed to deliver on large-scale projects that could strengthen the economy. He said Ontario had hoped for more federal investment in transportation and energy development, including support for major construction initiatives.
The federal budget, released Tuesday, outlined tens of billions of dollars in new spending while reducing costs in other areas to manage a projected $78 billion deficit. Ottawa pledged to increase funding for housing and defence while maintaining its focus on fiscal restraint.
Bethlenfalvy said the province wanted stronger federal backing for workers and manufacturers facing higher costs from trade tensions. He suggested those priorities could be reflected in Ontario’s upcoming fall economic statement, which will be tabled on Thursday.
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow, meanwhile, welcomed the federal plan, praising its focus on housing and public infrastructure.
