As I stood in the Senate chamber on May 27, 2025, watching history unfold, there was a sense of reverence that filled the room. For the first time since Queen Elizabeth II opened Parliament in 1977, a reigning monarch delivered the Speech from the Throne in Canada. This time, it was King Charles III, in his first Canadian visit since ascending the throne, who addressed a nation navigating turbulent global waters and domestic challenges.
For me, one of the most moving moments came before a single word was spoken. As the King entered the chamber, powerful First Nations drums and ceremonial song echoed throughout the Senate. I could not see the group clearly from my vantage point, but I felt every beat. The acoustics in the Senate amplified the ceremony in a way that made it feel sacred. In that moment, tradition and reconciliation met with profound symbolism, and you could feel it resonate across the floor.
But beyond the ceremonial pageantry, this Throne Speech was about substance. It outlined a bold and practical vision for Canada乌鸦传媒檚 future under the leadership of Prime Minister Mark Carney and his new government. And for those wondering whether Ottawa is focused on real-world problems, such as affordability, housing, and economic unity, the answer was a clear yes.
First, there is tax relief. The government is moving forward with a middle-class tax cut that could save two-income families up to $840 a year. Legislation is expected to be introduced shortly, with the tax cut coming into effect on or around July 1.
Second, the cost of housing is being tackled head-on. The government is reducing the GST on new homes priced under $1 million, offering meaningful savings to first-time homebuyers. A new initiative called Build Canada Homes will accelerate the construction of rental and affordable housing, utilizing Canadian materials and labour. Municipal development charges will also be reduced to lower costs and expedite the process.
Third, we heard about the plan to unify Canada乌鸦传媒檚 economy. Under the One Canadian Economy initiative, the federal government will introduce legislation to remove the federal barriers to internal trade and labour mobility. This is a long-overdue step that will enable businesses and workers to operate more freely across provinces, thereby strengthening our national productivity.
On climate, the government is changing course by eliminating the federal consumer carbon tax and replacing it with targeted incentives and sector-specific regulations. The goal is to stay serious about emissions reductions while relieving pressure on household budgets.
For Canadians who rely on social programs, the government has committed to expanding access to child care, pharmacare, and the national dental care plan. As of May 30, the new national dental plan has been built out to include all age groups.
At the same time, they are aiming to restore fiscal responsibility by balancing the operating budget within three years.
As the new Secretary of State for Military Procurement, I was encouraged to hear Canada forging ahead with new defence and security relationships that reflect the realities of our time, including strengthening our Arctic presence and enhancing the operational readiness of the Canadian Armed Forces.
Throne Speeches are often criticized as symbolic or lofty, but this one was refreshingly focused. It offered actual, tangible steps to improve people乌鸦传媒檚 lives. It was also a reminder that good government is not just about ideas. It is about execution.
And from where I stood, in that historic room, watching a King enter to the rhythm of First Nations drums, I was reminded that the story of Canada is still being written. And I am proud to be part of a government that is ready to write the next chapter with substance, integrity, and ambition
Stephen Fuhr PC CD
MP (Elect) Kelowna
