Toronto: Canada’s Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland has expressed confidence in her ability to perform her job "effectively" despite growing calls for her removal from the portfolio. Several Canadian media outlets have reported that the Prime Minister’s Office is considering replacing her due to economic challenges that have significantly impacted the popularity of Justin Trudeau’s government.
Since last year, economic woes have caused a sharp decline in the government's approval ratings, with no signs of improvement. While Trudeau himself remains unpopular, Freeland, who also serves as Deputy Prime Minister, may be targeted as a scapegoat to signal a shift in the government’s approach to these persistent issues.
During a press conference on Tuesday, Freeland stated, “What I will say to everyone here, speaking for myself, is I do have the confidence that I need to do my job effectively.” She also mentioned meeting with Trudeau multiple times recently, indicating ongoing discussions about the government's direction.
Trudeau defended Freeland during his visit to Washington last week, asserting his “full confidence in her.” This followed a Globe and Mail report quoting unnamed PMO officials who claimed Freeland had "not been effective in delivering an upbeat economic message as the Liberal government struggles to reconnect with Canadians amid low approval ratings."
Additionally, the Toronto Star reported potential changes in the cabinet, suggesting that Freeland could be moved to Foreign Affairs, replacing Mélanie Joly, with former Bank of Canada and Bank of England Governor Mark Carney stepping into the Finance role. Freeland has been Finance Minister since 2020, following Bill Morneau’s resignation.
Trudeau praised Carney last week, stating, “I think he would be an outstanding addition at a time when Canadians need good people to step up in politics.” Carney’s experience as Governor of the Bank of Canada from 2008 to 2013 and as Governor of the Bank of England from 2013 to 2020 highlights his significant expertise in financial matters.
However, the broader issue may lie with Trudeau’s own disapproval ratings, which stand at over 66%, according to the Angus Reid Institute’s Trudeau Tracker. A survey by Leger published on July 3 indicated that 63% of Canadians disapprove of Trudeau’s performance as Prime Minister, while only 27% approve.
Removing Freeland alone may not address the underlying discontent with the government, suggesting that a more comprehensive approach might be necessary to regain public support.
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