Title: Bloc Québécois Threatens Early Election Over Pension Top-Up Demand
Subtitle: Bloc Leader Yves-François Blanchet Sets October 29 Deadline for Pension Hike and Trade Bill Passage
The Bloc Québécois has issued an ultimatum to the Liberal government, demanding an increase in Old Age Security (OAS) payments and protection for supply-managed sectors by October 29 or face the threat of an early election. Bloc Leader Yves-François Blanchet announced that his party is pushing for a 10% OAS hike for seniors aged 65 to 74 through Bill C-319, along with the passage of Bill C-282, which would exempt sectors like dairy, poultry, and eggs from future trade negotiations.
If the government meets these demands, the Bloc has agreed to support the Liberals through the rest of the year. However, if unmet, the party will engage with the Conservatives and NDP to potentially bring down the Trudeau government.
With the Liberals holding 153 of the 338 seats in Parliament, their survival could hinge on either Bloc or NDP support, as a combined opposition effort could trigger an election before Christmas.
The push for a pension increase comes as OAS and other elderly benefits are expected to cost the federal government around $80 billion this year, raising questions about affordability and generational fairness amidst broader fiscal challenges.
Keywords: Bloc Québécois, early election, pension top-up, trade bill, OAS increase, Trudeau government.