The Federal government is set to present its budget on Thursday, and a local MP will be looking for a number of key investments that could have an effect on the North Island-Powell River riding.

The Federal government is set to present its budget on Thursday, and a local MP will be looking for a number of key investments that could have an effect on the North Island-Powell River riding.

One of MP Rachel Blaney’s key priorities is to see funding for the commitments made in the confidence and supply agreement made between her NDP party and the Liberal Party earlier this month. Those commitments include a national dental care plan, as well as significant investments in housing and to address the climate crisis.

Blaney will also be looking for funding for the files she covers as NDP critic: Veterans Affairs, Seniors, and Rural Economic Development. She would like to see confirmation of funding that would make temporary hires at Veterans Affairs permanent, which would help address the backlog of disability claims by veterans.

 On the Seniors file, Blaney would like to see increases to Old Age Security and Guaranteed Income Supplement for all seniors, not just those over 75. She’s also hoping for the implementation of a National Seniors Strategy, as well as a care guarantee for seniors in long term care and their families. For rural economic development, focusing on equitable funding for smaller communities — which would include support for workers in transitioning industries (including aquaculture).