From Warning Signs to Action: Fixing Canada’s Economy

In the House of Commons, I spoke about the growing economic pressures facing Canadians and why so many feel like they are falling behind. While there is often debate about technical definitions of recession, the reality is clear: key indicators—from rising unemployment to declining productivity and weak growth—are pointing in the wrong direction.

“Canada has everything it needs to succeed—but without the right policies, opportunity is lost. If we change course now, we can restore growth, attract investment, and ensure Canadians can get ahead again.”

Greg McLean, M.P.

What concerns me most is that this did not happen overnight. For years, there were clear warning signs. Economists warned about persistent deficits. Investment in key sectors began to decline. Productivity lagged behind our peers. Yet instead of changing course, the Liberal government chose to ignore those signals and, in some cases, doubled down on policies that created even more uncertainty.

We are now seeing the consequences. Canadians are carrying record levels of household debt. Costs are rising. Investment is leaving the country—particularly in the energy sector, where job‑killing policies like Bill C‑69 and Bill C‑48 have made it harder to build and grow. In Calgary, this is not theoretical. It is visible in delayed projects, reduced investment, and fewer opportunities for workers and businesses.

Despite these challenges, I remain confident in Canada’s potential. We have the resources, the talent, and the entrepreneurial spirit to succeed. But potential alone is not enough. We need policies that restore confidence, attract investment, and create real opportunity. If we make those choices, Canada can once again lead—not just keep up—with the world’s top economies.

While I was unable to deliver my full remarks in the House due to time constraints, my message is ultimately about where we go from here. Canada has everything it needs to succeed—the resources, the talent, and the entrepreneurial spirit. With the right policies—restoring fiscal discipline, attracting investment, and supporting responsible development—we can turn this around. Growth will return, opportunity will expand, and Canadians will once again feel that hard work leads to progress.

An In-Depth Interview

I appeared on The Blueprint podcast to discuss the recession and what we should do to reverse course with MP Jamie Schmale.

Related material

Consult the official Hansard transcript of Greg’s remarks in the House of Commons.