Liberal government to deliver throne speech, Trudeau to address Canadians

The minority Liberals are set to deliver a speech from the throne today.

Gov. Gen. Julie Payette will deliver the speech, which will detail the government’s plans in three areas:

• clamping down on current COVID case numbers
• reaffirming and reworking supports for affected Canadians and businesses
• an economic bounce-back plan for a post-pandemic Canada

Ahead of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s decision to prorogue Parliament, his government had announced a massive new aid package creating new benefits and expanded employment insurance as part of the phase out of CERB.

But the throne speech is expected to signal more tweaks are coming to EI and make substantial commitments in other areas, including child care.

For post-pandemic growth, the Liberals will detail plans that connect economic recovery to projects to combat climate change.

The throne speech is scheduled to begin at 2 p.m. CHCH will stream it on Facebook.

Two party leaders, Conservative Erin O’Toole and Bloc Quebecois Yves-François Blanchet, won’t be at today’s speech because they’ve tested positive for COVID-19.

Meanwhile, Trudeau will deliver his own televised speech tonight.

He will reinforce plans from the throne speech and urge Canadians to stand firm in their efforts to combat COVID-19.

Trudeau is scheduled to speak at 6:30 p.m. CHCH will carry that live.