On May 27, King Charles III presented the Speech from the Throne to inaugurate the first parliamentary session of the 45th Parliament of Canada. You can read the complete text in English following this. (Certain sections were conveyed in French.)
Distinguished Senators, colleagues from the House of Commons,
With great pride and joy, my wife and I are honored to be among you today, celebrating how Canadians are rallying together with a refreshed spirit of national pride, unity, and optimism.
I want to recognize that we are meeting on the unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishinaabeg people. This acknowledgment serves to highlight our shared national history. As I continue to expand my knowledge, I sincerely wish for all our communities and our nation as a whole to find a way towards truth and reconciliation through actions and statements alike.
This marks my 20th visit to Canada, spanning over more than fifty years, and this trip stands out as my first since becoming Sovereign. As I’ve mentioned previously, “Each time I step foot in Canada, a bit more of the country permeates through my veins—ultimately reaching my heart.”
I’ve consistently held deep respect for Canada’s distinctive character, acknowledged globally due to its courage and dedication in safeguarding core principles, along with the nation’s rich mix of cultures and inherent goodwill among its people.
To the First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples — you have warmly welcomed me and my family onto your traditional territories, and for this kindness, I am deeply thankful.
This year commemorates the 80th anniversary of V-E Day and V-J Day. From Juno Beach to Dieppe, from the Somme to Beaumont-Hamel, at Ypres and Vimy Ridge—these locations, along with countless others indelibly marked in our collective memory, saw Canadians battling and sacrificing their lives beside our staunchest partners in alliance.
Today, I observe delegates hailing from all corners of Canada—from St. John’s in Newfoundland and Labrador to Victoria in British Columbia, and even Arviat in Nunavut. These individuals safeguard the essential rights and liberties enshrined within the Canadian Charter. As your sovereign, I express my gratitude for your dedication to serving your compatriots throughout this expansive and magnificent country.
You serve as voices for your communities, embodying a remarkable diversity of cultures, languages, and viewpoints. It is our duty to this era and future generations to consider and work towards the collective well-being of everyone. Despite the globe confronting unparalleled difficulties, leading to widespread doubts about peace, economic prosperity, and environmental shifts throughout various regions, your communities possess the expertise and resilience needed to offer numerous answers.
Through promoting teamwork and participating in courteous, productive discussions, you will guarantee that this government can take decisive and equitable actions to assist Canadians.
It has been almost seven decades since the Sovereign first convened Parliament. Since then, Canada has undergone significant transformations: reclaiming its Constitution, attaining complete autonomy, and experiencing substantial development. The nation has honored its British, French, and Indigenous heritage and evolved into an assertive, forward-thinking, inventive country characterized by bilingualism, genuine diversity, and a dedication to reconciliation.
For an extended period, The Crown has served as a emblem of unity within Canada. Additionally, it embodies steadfastness and consistency spanning from history into contemporary times. Indeed, it remains resolutely proud, serving as a representation of modern-day Canada with all its diversity and vitality.
Opening
In 1957, when my beloved late mother, Queen Elizabeth II, inaugurated a new session of the Canadian Parliament, the Second World War was still a vivid and poignant recollection. Meanwhile, the Cold War was escalating rapidly. Democracy and freedom were at risk. During this period, Canada was establishing itself as an expanding economic powerhouse and a key promoter of global harmony. Over subsequent years, significant historical milestones have occurred, including the Vietnam War, the collapse of the Berlin Wall, and the commencement of the War on Terror. Presently, Canada confronts yet another pivotal juncture.
Democracy, pluralism, the rule of law, self-governance, and liberty are principles cherished by Canadians, and they are values that the government is committed to safeguarding.
The regime of unrestricted international commerce, though far from flawless, has contributed significantly to the well-being of Canadians over many years, is now evolving. Similarly, Canada’s ties with its allies are undergoing transformation as well.
Let’s be realistic: the globe has become more perilous and unpredictable compared to any time since the end of World War II. For Canadians, we are encountering hurdles never before experienced in our lifetime.
A lot of Canadians are experiencing anxiety and concern over the rapidly shifting landscape surrounding them.
Major shifts can be quite disconcerting. Nevertheless, this juncture presents an extraordinary chance. A chance for rejuvenation. A chance to dream ambitiously and execute even grander plans. It’s an occasion for Canada to undertake the biggest economic overhaul since the end of the Second World War. A self-assured Canada, having embraced numerous newcomers, including those fleeing devastating international conflicts, can grasp this opening by acknowledging that every Canadian possesses potential surpassing what any overseas entity could ever claim. By adhering steadfastly to core Canadian principles, Canada can forge fresh partnerships and cultivate a novel economy benefiting all citizens.
Forming new connections with the United States and globally
For instance, the Prime Minister along with the President of the United States has started outlining a fresh economic and security partnership between Canada and the U.S., grounded in reciprocal regard and built upon shared objectives, aimed at providing substantial advantages for these two independent countries.
Simultaneously, the government is striving to enhance its connections with dependable trade partners and allies globally, acknowledging that Canada possesses what the international community requires and upholds the values respected worldwide.
Canada is prepared to form an alliance with nations that uphold similar principles, supporting global collaboration and the unrestricted sharing of products, services, and concepts.
In this rapidly changing world, Canada is poised to take the helm. This leadership will be showcased in June with the hosting of the G7 Summit in Canada.
Creating a More Affordable Canada
The government operates under the belief that the economy is genuinely robust only when it benefits all individuals.
A lot of Canadians are finding it difficult to make progress. In response, the government is taking action by lowering taxes for the middle class.
and saving two-income families up to $840 a year. It will cut the GST on homes at or under $1 million for first-time homebuyers, delivering savings of up to $50,000. And it will lower the GST on homes between $1 million and $1.5 million.
The government will safeguard initiatives that have been alleviating financial burdens for families by thousands annually. This encompasses childcare support and prescription medication coverage. Furthermore, the administration has broadened the scope of the Canadian Dental Care Program, extending benefits to roughly eight million citizens, which typically reduces individual expenses by over $800 yearly.
Building a stronger Canada
The primary objective of the government—its fundamental mission—is to establish the most robust economy within the G7. This begins with unifying thirteen separate economies into one cohesive Canadian entity. Barriers hindering trade and labor movement internally cost Canada up to $200 billion annually. To address this, the government plans to present legislation aimed at eliminating all residual federal obstacles to internal commerce and workforce mobility before Canada Day.
Many premiers have already made significant strides in dismantling interprovincial trade barriers. We will continue this momentum to achieve nationwide free trade by Canada Day. While essential for realizing Canada’s complete economic capability, further action is necessary.
To strengthen Canada, the government is collaborating closely with provinces, territories, and Indigenous communities to pinpoint and accelerate initiatives of national importance. These endeavors aim to unite Canada, enhance our global connections, and generate well-paid job opportunities for future generations.
Considering the rapid changes and extensive opportunities, swiftness is crucial. By establishing a new Major Federal Project Office, the approval process for projects will be shortened from five years to just two, without compromising Canada’s leading environmental regulations or neglecting its constitutional duties towards Indigenous Peoples.
Within six months, the government will enter into cooperation agreements with all participating provinces and territories to achieve its objective of “one project, one assessment.”
As Canadians unite, they create enduring structures for our nation.
By eliminating these obstacles that have constrained our economy, we will spark a period of unprecedented growth. This will not only allow us to weather current trade conflicts but also come out even more robust. We aim for Canada to lead the global stage as a premier energy powerhouse, excelling in both traditional and clean energies. Developing an industrial plan that enhances Canada’s international competitiveness whilst tackling environmental challenges is crucial. Additionally, this approach will create countless high-quality jobs within the skilled trades sector. And to
develop Canada into the global leader for science and innovation.
Importantly, the government will implement several initiatives aimed at doubling the pace of home construction while establishing an entirely new housing sector – leveraging Canadian technology, employing Canadian skilled laborers, and utilizing Canadian timber.
The government plans to implement initiatives aimed at providing more accessible homes through the establishment of Build Canada Homes. As a purpose-led entity, this organization will work towards speeding up the creation of new affordable housing options. Additionally, it will support the expansion of the prefab and modular home construction sector.
It will offer substantial funding to developers of affordable homes. The government aims to improve the housing market, such as by reducing municipal development fees by 50% for all multifamily dwellings. By increasing the supply, the government intends to lower housing expenses.
Constructing a safer and more secure Canada
For Canada to genuinely be robust, it needs to ensure safety. In this pursuit, the government plans to propose laws aimed at boosting security along the nation’s boundaries. This initiative will equip law enforcement and intelligence organizations with advanced resources to curb the influx of fentanyl and its chemical components. Additionally, the Canada Border Services Agency will receive expanded authority to inspect merchandise bound for shipment abroad, thereby thwarting the distribution of illicit and pilfered items.
including cars.
The government aims to safeguard Canada’s sovereignty by rejuvenating, equipping, and funding the Canadian Armed Forces. By participating in ReArm Europe, it plans to enhance cooperation within the defense sector, thereby bolstering transatlantic security alongside our European allies. Additionally, significant investments will be made to reinforce its position in the northern territories—a vital component of Canada—given the emerging challenges faced by this area.
The government will fulfill its responsibility to safeguard Canadians and their sovereign rights, regardless of where they may be.
Challenges might arise both domestically and internationally. To ensure community safety, the government plans to employ an additional 1,000 people.
RCMP officers. This shift will alter firearms licensing and reinforce the enforcement of yellow and red flag laws.
Licenses for weapons held by individuals convicted of domestic violence and those under protective orders will be rescinded. By utilizing scanners, drones, and helicopters, along with deploying extra staff and canine units, the government aims to reduce the flow of illicit firearms and narcotics across borders.
These measures will be implemented while safeguarding the rights of lawful firearm owners and respecting Indigenous Peoples’ traditional hunting practices.
The government plans to emphasize combating car theft and home invasions by strengthening the Criminal Code. This change aims to make it more difficult for repeat offenders accused of these offenses—including human trafficking and drug smuggling—to obtain bail.
Building a united Canada
In this period of significant transformation, Canadians are rallying around what sets our nation apart. At the core of Canadian identity lies both the French language and Quebec’s cultural heritage. These elements embody the essence of the country we cherish deeply. Our nation values and honors not only its official languages but also its Indigenous ones. The government remains steadfast in safeguarding the entities that share these cultures and identities globally, such as CBC/Radio-Canada. Additionally, they aim to shield those who provide us with wholesome, nutritious, and high-quality sustenance—our farmers. Supply management systems will be protected too.
Nature is central to Canada’s identity. In 2022, Canada hosted COP15 in Montreal, wrapping up the conference with
In 196 nations reaching a landmark accord to safeguard thirty percent of their land and thirty percent of their water by the year 2030, the government aims to conserve more of Canada’s natural environment than ever before. This will be achieved through establishing additional national parks, national urban parks, marine protected zones, along with various other conservation efforts.
Building a united Canada
The government will consistently safeguard the rights and freedoms that the Charter ensures for all Canadians.
The government aims to be a dependable ally for Indigenous Peoples, steadfastly committed to fostering reconciliation. A key aspect of this pledge involves building enduring economic success alongside these communities. To achieve this, the government plans to expand the Indigenous Loan Guarantee Program from $5 billion to $10 billion—facilitating increased ownership opportunities within significant initiatives among Indigenous groups. Moving ahead with national development endeavors, the government will consistently adhere to the principle of obtaining free, prior, and informed consent.
Canada’s immigration framework has traditionally been a matter of great pride for Canadians and an engine of economic vitality. The government is committed to reinstating the faith of Canadians in the immigration process by bringing equilibrium back into the system.
By 2027, the government aims to limit the combined number of temporary foreign workers and international students to under five percent of Canada’s population. This move is intended to draw top global talents to strengthen the country’s economy, simultaneously signaling to Canadians employed overseas that now is an opportune moment to return home.
Strengthening Canada by decreasing expenditures and increasing investments
Throughout all its endeavors, the government will adhere to a new principle of financial prudence: spending less so that Canadians can invest more.
Yearly day-to-day governmental expenditures—the government’s operational budget—have been increasing at a rate of 9% annually. To address this, the administration plans to implement strategies aimed at reducing this growth to under 2%.
Transfers to provinces, territories, or individuals will remain unchanged. Over the coming three years, the government aims to achieve a balanced operating budget by eliminating wasteful spending, limiting the size of the public workforce, removing redundant processes, and utilizing technology to boost efficiency within the public sector.
Simultaneously, the government will implement various strategies to stimulate fresh investments aimed at generating improved job opportunities and elevated earnings for Canadians. This governmental effort will be proportionate to both the difficulties we face today and the aspirations of Canadians.
Conclusion
Distinguished Senators, Members of the House of Commons,
When my beloved late mother spoke to your predecessors some seventy years ago, she mentioned that at that time and considering global politics, no country could survive in isolation. It brings me immense pride to see that over the subsequent decades, Canada has maintained its role as a beacon for others worldwide through its actions and principles, serving as a positive influence.
I want to convey to both you and the Canadian people, along with my spouse, our sincere thanks for the warm reception we’ve been granted.
As the anthem tells us: The True North truly stands strong and free!
Members of the House of Commons, you will be required to approve the allocation of funds necessary for carrying out the services and expenditures approved by Parliament.
May you respect the significant trust granted to you by Canadians, and may God bless and lead you in every task.
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