Premiers reminded the federal government of its responsibility with respect to federal infrastructure, including economic corridors, railways, and ports.
Federal programs that create duplicative processes, prescribe certain kinds of infrastructure projects over others, or pit provinces and territories against each other, work against the collective betterment of Canadians.
Canada’s Premiers discussed the everyday impact of inflation and how to combat this through investments in strategic infrastructure that improve productivity and strengthen supply chains. Community, economic, and competitive infrastructure is critical for building strong communities, improving affordability, and enhancing the prosperity of Canadians.
The increasing frequency of natural disasters, such as wildfires and flooding, highlights the importance of adaptation in response to a changing climate. Additional federal funding and resources are urgently needed now to prepare for and mitigate the impacts of future events. The federal government must work closely and transparently with provinces and territories on the modernization of the federal Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements.
Housing
Premiers emphasized the critical need for collaboration between all levels of government with respect to addressing the housing crisis. Provinces and territories need to have a key role in the development and execution of federal housing programs: the issue cannot be solved by the federal government and municipalities acting without the meaningful involvement and support of provinces and territories.
Premiers also discussed the link between infrastructure and housing priorities. Provinces and territories are making investments and policy/regulatory changes to support the availability and affordability of housing to meet labour market demand, address homelessness, and welcome newcomers. On top of this, many Canadians have lost homes to wildfires, flooding, and other forms of extreme weather.
While recent announcements by the federal government are a step in the right direction, more can and must be done. Effective intergovernmental collaboration between provincial/territorial governments and the federal government could support a range of solutions adapted to the diverse realities and needs of the country’s regions, including increased housing pressures as a result of the growing population including immigrants and asylum seekers.
Premiers also called on the federal government to address the chronic underfunding of housing in Indigenous communities.
Health
Premiers expressed their deep appreciation for the work and dedication of all frontline health care workers.
Provinces and territories are taking action in response to Canadians’ priorities across the care continuum, including addressing wait times and access to primary care, mental health and substance use services, and recruiting and retaining health care professionals.
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