QUESTION PERIOD — Employment and Social Development
Employment Insurance
June 11, 2026
Government leader, the Parliamentary Budget Officer’s June 2026 outlook shows Employment Insurance benefits rising significantly, from $24.9 billion in 2024-25 to $34 billion in 2026-27. Appendix E shows the EI Operating Account staying in deficit until near balance by 2033, with unemployment elevated in the near term.
Senator Moreau, doesn’t this point to a weakening labour market and growing pressure on the EI system under your government’s economic plan?
I don’t think it is a weakening labour market. Jobs: In May 2026, employment increased by 88,000. The employment rate rose by 0.2%, to 60.7%. The unemployment rate fell 0.3%, to 6.6%. The number of people working full-time rose by 154,000. Youth employment increased by 22,000. The unemployment rate among returning students aged 15 to 24 was down 2.1% from the same month in 2025.
There is job creation in Canada. The government’s plan is working. Compared to other countries, since December 2024, Canada has added more jobs per capita than the U.S., creating 2.8 jobs per 1,000 people, nearly double the rate of the United States.
I think the plan is working.
Senator Moreau, Canadians do not want an economy where more people are relying on EI while the account remains in deficit.
What is your government’s plan to restore balance to the EI account without simply increasing costs for workers and employers?
The government’s plan is aiming at strengthening our economy, diversifying our market and creating jobs. That plan, Senator Ataullahjan, is working.
