Poilievre criticizes Carney economic record, outlines Conservative agenda in Toronto speech

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre used a speech to a business audience in Toronto on Friday to criticize Prime Minister Mark Carney’s economic record and promote his party’s approach to taxation and regulation.

Speaking at the Canadian Club Toronto, Poilievre said the federal government has not delivered on key economic commitments since Carney took office more than a year ago. He told attendees that his party would focus on reducing taxes and cutting regulations, arguing that government should play a smaller role in the private sector.

Poilievre claimed economic conditions have worsened under the current government, citing higher living costs and weaker business conditions. He referenced a recent report from the Canadian Federation of Independent Business that described an “entrepreneurial drought,” with more businesses closing than opening, according to the organization.

He also criticized Carney’s past leadership at the Bank of England and said the prime minister has not followed through on commitments related to major infrastructure, including a proposed oil pipeline project in Alberta.

On trade, Poilievre acknowledged uncertainty tied to U.S. tariffs under President Donald Trump but rejected the government’s suggestion that Canada’s relationship with its largest trading partner has fundamentally changed.