Federal Conservatives push affordability agenda at B.C. caucus retreat in Penticton

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre criticized the federal government's approach to Canada-EU negotiations, promising the Opposition will push back and offer alternatives during Parliament's recess. The party held its caucus retreat in Penticton this week.

Deputy Leader Melissa Lantsman, speaking at a press conference Wednesday, highlighted the lack of public disclosure on Canada-EU talks. "None of this has been discussed here, with media, or with Parliament, or with Canadians and I think they need the straight goods with this," Lantsman said. The EU association proposal was first reported by the Wall Street Journal and European Parliament, not by the federal government.

Poilievre opened his remarks by praising the Okanagan and recognizing hardships from the recent wildfire season. He acknowledged firefighters, first responders, small businesses, and local agencies fighting the fires, saying all of Canada needs to learn from the region's resilience.

On trade, Poilievre said Canadians want government to succeed despite "unfair tariffs and trolling from President (Donald) Trump and his administration." He argued that the Conservative Party, as "the party of confederation," always puts Canadians first.

During Parliament's recess, Poilievre spoke with loggers in B.C., small business owners, and other struggling Canadians. He claimed the Canadian promise of work, following rules, and loving one's country should bring affordability and safe neighborhoods. "Summits and speeches since last election have not translated into tangible improvements," Poilievre said.

The party says it found $150 billion in savings from the last budget. Poilievre cited red tape at provincial, municipal, and federal levels as a cause of affordability issues, pointing to difficulties in selling alcohol across provincial borders as an example. He promised to eliminate taxes on home building, fuel taxes, GST for vehicles made in Canada, and capital gains tax for people investing in Canada.