Harper paid special attention to upcoming celebrations of historical events, including the centennial of World War I and what would be Prime Minister Sir John A. Macdonald’s 200th birthday if he were still alive.
“We’re already commemorating the conception of our country during the War of 1812, the struggle that united Canadians and defined our land as forever separate from the United States,” he said.
“These milestones remind us of a proud national story rooted in the great deeds of our ancestors and in a centuries-old constitutional legacy of freedom.”
Economy Top Priority
But the top priority will be the same as it has always been—the economy, he said.
“We as a government will never forget that the key to the hopes and dreams of Canadians is the prosperity of this land. So hear me on this, my friends. For you, for me, for all of us, the economy is still job one.”
He promised the government would focus on economic growth and long-term prosperity. That would be done through supporting training for future employment needs, investing in technology, and business innovation.
“Red tape must go ... and taxes must stay low.” he said
During question period Wednesday, Liberal leader Bob Rae asked Harper why aboriginal affairs were not among his priorities.
Harper said the economy was the number one priority for all Canadians, implying that that meant aboriginal Canadians as well.
“This government is involved in a historic consultation process with First Nations across this country to develop a more effective education system,” he said.
“We recognize the tremendous potential that aboriginal people of the next generation will have and that is why we want to make sure we make investments in our education system that will get us the results that we need.”
Friends Read Free