The government of Canada launched a “Let’s Talk Budget 2023” initiative on Dec. 14, inviting all Canadians to share their ideas as part of its annual pre-budget consultations.
Officials will hold public meetings across the country in the coming months to garner feedback. Canadians can also submit their recommendations through an online questionnaire. The end date on the initiative is Feb. 10, 2023.
The questionnaire consists of 16 questions, half of which relate to the demographics of the respondent. The budget-related questions include, “How do you think the government can best support Canadian innovation that will create new jobs and grow our economy?” It’s a multiple choice question with 12 possible answers. Four of those answers involve investment in renewable energy. Others include investing in more immigration to bring in skilled workers, improving high-speed internet access for all, and attracting foreign investment.
Another question is “What are the most important ways the Government of Canada can help build an economy that works for everyone?” Respondents can choose up to five of the 15 options given. They include making it easier for Canadians to own a home, making job training more accessible, reducing student debt, advancing reconciliation with indigenous peoples, and working “to end systemic racism.”
It also includes two open questions where respondents can write comments. One is, “If you were designing the federal budget, what would you like to see in it to help create jobs and grow Canada’s economy?” The other is, “What is one idea you have for how the federal government can help you or your community?”
Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance Randy Boissonnault said in the release, “Our government’s top priority is to support Canadians who need it most, and to increase Canada’s competitiveness and prosperity for generations to come, by making smart and responsible investments today. As we prepare our upcoming budget, we want to hear from you on your priorities and your ideas on how the government can continue to create good jobs, grow the middle class, and drive economic growth that benefits everyone. I look forward to hearing directly from you.”
