The government has enormous respect for and appreciates the work of the Parliamentary Budget Officer. However, I’m not in a position to know exactly what the final number will be. That will become clear once all the accounts and work are done.

However, I can say this, honourable colleagues: The government does not agree with your characterization of how this government has managed the economy over the past eight and a half years. We’re going to leave aside the investments made to protect Canadians and their businesses during the pandemic. We will put aside the dire statements that you’ve made over the years, which Hansard will reveal, about how inflation will stay where it is. Inflation is less than 2%. We’re expecting further bank cuts. Relief is coming to Canadians — much overdue and needed relief. This country is in good hands.

Thank you for the question. This government has made the decision to invest in Canadians and in our future. To be sure, maintaining levels of public debt that are manageable is an important priority for any government. To make a fetish — dare I say — of deficit reduction when Canadians are clamouring for assistance will be at the expense of God knows how many social programs —

Senator McPhedran.