Episode Details

Today on The Really Big Show, Jim Csek and Iain Burns tackle a wide range of major national stories, led by a central question: are Canadians about to face a GST hike?The discussion focuses on growing fiscal pressure in Canada, with new reports suggesting that increased defence spending could force the federal government into difficult decisions, including raising taxes. This comes as concerns mount over rising deficits, inflationary pressures, and the impact of policies like the industrial carbon tax, which has now increased again.The show also explores competing visions for affordability, including calls to eliminate federal fuel taxes to provide immediate relief, while comparing Canada’s approach to other countries that have already reduced fuel taxes to ease cost-of-living pressures.A major portion of the conversation examines Canada’s economic direction, including deepening trade deficits, rising mortgage arrears, and increasing concerns about investment, manufacturing, and international competitiveness. We also look at Canada’s evolving relationship with China, as top financial leaders join a federal delegation for economic discussions.Beyond economics, the show covers a wide range of political and policy issues, including firearms legislation and provincial pushback, RCMP staffing challenges, electric vehicle policy, Indigenous governance debates, and tensions around land and property rights.Throughout the broadcast, one theme stands out: Canadians are facing rising costs, growing uncertainty, and increasingly difficult policy choices across multiple fronts.With taxes, deficits, and economic pressures all converging, what direction do you think Canada should take next?