The Trudeau government is expected to announce a significant affordability package on Thursday, including temporary GST relief on items like children’s clothing and pre-prepared meals, according to the Toronto Star.
A senior government official confirmed that the plan will require new legislation, though the exact cost remains undisclosed.
Media reports suggest the package could be worth billions.
The NDP has agreed to support the measure, but they have expressed disappointment that it does not include GST relief on monthly bills like home heating and internet services, which they had advocated for in their push to remove the tax from essential items.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland are scheduled to make the announcement in the Greater Toronto Area, where they will also discuss food affordability.
The details are expected to be part of the government’s fall economic statement. However, it remains unclear whether the NDP will officially back other measures needed to break the current parliamentary deadlock.
