In a dynamic and impassioned rally that resonated with common sense conservatism, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre took center stage in Kitchener today, unveiling a comprehensive vision for addressing pressing issues such as housing affordability, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and public safety. The rally, aptly titled “Axe the Tax,” not only energized the crowd but provided a detailed roadmap for the future of Canada.
Opening his discourse, Poilievre delved into the intricacies of the housing crisis, particularly focusing on the exorbitant costs associated with obtaining permits. Drawing attention to Vancouver’s staggering $1.3 million permit fee for new homes, he underscored the broader financial burdens encompassing legal fees, consultant costs, rezoning expenses, and the considerable delays in the process. Poilievre’s critique extended to Toronto’s $350,000 permit cost and Winnipeg’s governmental impediments to 2,000 homes near a transit station. His solution? A common-sense plan to incentivize cities to expedite land development by tying federal funding to a 15% increase in home building permits annually.
The crux of Poilievre’s proposal lies in the concept of incentivizing municipal governments to meet annual building targets. This innovative approach incorporates a bonus system, wherein cities exceeding their targets receive increased financial support. The Conservative leader argues that this mechanism ensures accountability and efficiency, placing the responsibility of faster permit processing squarely on the shoulders of city bureaucracies.
In a move that blends pragmatism with fiscal responsibility, Poilievre unveiled plans to sell off thousands of federal buildings and vast tracts of federal land. The revenue generated from these sales will be allocated to paying down the national debt, while the now-available land is repurposed for housing development. This approach aligns with the Conservative leader’s commitment to optimizing existing resources and steering away from unnecessary government expenditures.
To counteract bureaucratic delays, Poilievre introduced the Building Homes and Not bureaucracy Act, designed to streamline the approval process for financing apartment complexes. By imposing a 60-day approval target and linking executive pay to meeting this deadline, the act aims to inject efficiency into agencies such as the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC).
Shifting focus to the workforce, Poilievre highlighted the disparity in tax write-offs between corporate executives and trades workers. He pledged to rectify this imbalance and further committed to facilitating the integration of immigrant doctors and nurses into the Canadian healthcare system. Poilievre’s emphasis on recognizing and valuing skilled trades workers aligns with his broader vision of a diverse and thriving workforce.
Addressing concerns surrounding C-47, Poilievre voiced his opposition to regulations hindering natural health product businesses. He criticized the alignment of certain political parties with major pharmaceutical companies and underscored the importance of freedom of choice in healthcare decisions. The Conservative leader pledged to stand against excessive regulations that could stifle small businesses and limit consumer choices.
In an emotionally charged segment, Poilievre condemned pharmaceutical companies responsible for the opioid crisis. He promised legal action against these entities, intending to use recovered funds to combat drug addiction and support treatment and recovery programs. Additionally, the Conservative leader unveiled plans to reverse Trudeau’s gun control measures, focusing on border reinforcement and ensuring violent criminals remain behind bars.
The rally concluded with a resounding call for freedom and unity. Poilievre emphasized his commitment to repealing laws restricting free speech, combating censorship, and halting vaccine mandates. Pledging to prioritize the interests of everyday Canadians, he declared his intention to lead a government that empowers individuals, respects their freedoms, and brings decision-making closer to home.
As Common Sense Canadians gathered in Kitchener, the event marked a pivotal moment in the lead-up to the upcoming elections. Poilievre’s “Axe the Tax” rally not only energized his supporters but set the stage for a spirited and common-sense-driven political discourse that promises to shape the future trajectory of Canada.