Poilievre slams Carney’s economic record, warning Canada faces rising costs, weak growth, and fewer business opportunities.
Poilievre Turns Up the Heat on Carney
OTTAWA — Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre didn’t hold back. Instead, he delivered a sharp critique of Prime Minister Mark Carney and his economic track record during a high-profile speech in Toronto.
Speaking at the Canadian Club Toronto, Poilievre made one point clear: now that the Liberals hold a majority, excuses are off the table. According to him, the pressure is now squarely on Carney to deliver results.
A Direct Attack on Economic Credibility
Right from the start, Poilievre questioned Carney’s economic judgment. He argued that the prime minister has missed the mark on major financial issues over the past decade. Moreover, he pointed to what he sees as a gap between promises and outcomes.
In addition, Poilievre criticized Carney’s past leadership at the Bank of England. He linked that period to slow growth and highlighted missed warnings about rising inflation after the pandemic.
Meanwhile, Carney fired back earlier in Parliament, brushing off the criticism with a jab of his own.
Majority Government Means No More Delays
Now, with a Liberal majority secured after recent byelections, Poilievre says the stakes have changed. Previously, the government could blame political gridlock. However, that argument no longer holds.
As a result, Poilievre insists Canadians should expect action and soon.
He also noted that Conservatives supported major legislation like the One Canadian Economy Act. Yet, according to him, no major projects have moved forward since.
Energy Projects and Missed Opportunities
Energy quickly became a focal point. Poilievre argued that Canada has failed to advance key infrastructure, including pipelines that could connect Alberta oil to the West Coast.
At the same time, Carney has said discussions with Alberta are progressing. Still, Poilievre remains unconvinced, saying Canadians have yet to see tangible results.
Business Confidence Hits a Rough Patch
Beyond politics, Poilievre pointed to troubling economic signals. For instance, a report from the Canadian Federation of Independent Business shows more businesses are closing than opening.
Furthermore, many entrepreneurs feel hesitant. In fact, over half of small business owners surveyed said they wouldn’t recommend starting a business in Canada right now.
On top of that, data from Royal Bank of Canada suggests more than $1 trillion in investment has left the country over the past decade.
A Call for Economic Reset
So, what’s the solution? Poilievre says Canada needs a reset. He is calling for lower taxes, fewer regulations, and stronger support for entrepreneurs.
He argues that high costs and ongoing uncertainty are holding back the next generation of business leaders. Therefore, he believes removing barriers will help unlock growth.
Trade Tensions Add Another Layer
Looking ahead, Poilievre acknowledged challenges with the United States. With tariffs linked to President Donald Trump, Canada may face reduced trade.
However, he pushed back on the idea of a lasting break between the two countries. Instead, he suggested the relationship can still recover with the right approach.
The Clock Is Ticking
In the end, Poilievre’s message was simple. The Liberals now have full control, so expectations are higher than ever.
And as Parliament shifts under a majority government, he says Canadians will be watching closely and so will the opposition.
