PARKSVILLE— With Parliament set to return next week, Canada’s New Democrats concluded their caucus retreat on Vancouver Island with a renewed commitment to delivering for Canadians.

“New Democrats are here to stand up for working people,” said NDP Interim Leader Don Davies. “We’re focused on building a prosperous and independent Canada where everyone has a chance to succeed.”

After a decade of Liberal government, working families are struggling to find homes they can afford, keep up with rising costs, and access timely healthcare. Unemployment has reached its highest level in a decade, with young people hit hardest.

Donald Trump’s trade war continues to undermine Canada’s economy and fuel uncertainty about the future. Although the Liberals promised an ‘elbows up’ approach during the election, they’ve since made a series of one-sided concessions without securing meaningful gains for Canada.

Despite these growing challenges, Prime Minister Mark Carney has confirmed plans to bring in an austerity budget this fall. This would mean significant cuts to public services, fewer good jobs, and less support for the people who need it most.

“Canadians are relying on this government to protect them from Trump’s trade war,” said Davies. “But instead of defending Canadian jobs, Mr. Carney is promising deep cuts. This is not the time to slash services and force workers to pay the price. It’s time to invest in Canada and Canadians.

New Democrats are calling on the Carney Liberals to support Canadians by creating well-paying jobs using Canadian resources, building millions of affordable homes, closing to the infrastructure gap that communities face, and fulfilling the promise for universal public pharmacare in all provinces and territories.

“This is a critical moment for our country,” added Davies. “To build a stronger Canada, we must invest in working people and create good, family-sustaining jobs. That’s where New Democrats come from, and that’s who we represent. We’re ready to bring the voices of Canada’s working class to Parliament.”