Canada’s federal budget

March 21, 2013

The federal government with the tabling of its latest budget continues its efforts to cut the deficit. Nevertheless a few spending items may bode well for the north.

• The budget states that approximately $7 billion will be invested over 10 years in First Nations infrastructure such as roads, bridges energy systems and other First Nations infrastructure priorities.
• It will provide $100 million over two years to support the construction of housing in Nunavut.
• The budget creates the “Canada Job Grant”, which could provide $15,000 or more per person, including the federal contribution and matching provinces/territories and employers,to ensure Canadians are getting the skills employers are seeking.
• Economic Action Plan 2013 proposes capital support for Yukon College’s Centre for Northern Innovation in Mining.
• $665 million to support Aboriginal skills development and training over 7 years.
• Accelerate the construction of the Pangnirtung Harbour in Nunavut and An estimated $116 million over the next five year to support the construction of the Nanisivik naval berth and refuelling facility in Nunavut, which will support Canada’s Arctic/Offshore patrol ships.

Commentary

All round the North fared not badly with the federal budget.

Sources

• a)http://www.budget.gc.ca/2013/doc/plan/budget2013-eng.pdf