Carney’s Defence Strategy Under Scrutiny | Brian Lilley

Health care costs for refugees and asylum claimants have climbed dramatically over the past decade, rising from $60 million to nearly $1 billion this year, according to the Parliamentary Budget Officer. What’s behind the surge, and what does it mean for Canadian taxpayers?

At the same time, Prime Minister Mark Carney has unveiled a new defence industrial strategy designed to direct more military contracts to Canadian companies. Supporters argue it strengthens domestic industry and economic growth, while critics question whether it prioritizes industrial policy over the operational needs of the armed forces.

BCN political contributor Brian Lilley of the Toronto Sun joins us to discuss what this strategy could mean for Canada’s military readiness and for businesses across the country. The conversation also turns to Carney’s proposal for a 39-country trading bloc as a counterweight to the United States, his response to comments made by U.S. Senator Marco Rubio at the Munich Security Conference, and whether Canada can still secure a trade deal with President Donald Trump amid shifting alliances.

Plus, we examine why Conservative MP Jamil Jivani drew criticism after travelling to Washington to advocate for a deal, and what the growing debate over refugee health spending signals about the country’s fiscal direction.