A new poll shows that most Canadians believe the federal government has grown too large and expensive, and that services haven’t improved to match.The survey, conducted by Leger for the Canadian Taxpayers Federation, found that 54% of Canadians think the size and cost of the federal bureaucracy should be reduced. Only 4% want it increased, while 24% say it should stay the same. When looking only at those with a clear opinion, two-thirds support cuts.Since 2016, the federal government has hired 99,000 more employees. During that time, the cost of the bureaucracy jumped from $40.2 billion to $71.2 billion, a 77% increase, according to the Parliamentary Budget Officer.Despite this growth, many Canadians don’t believe services have improved, according to the poll.Half of respondents say federal services have gotten worse since 2016. Just 11% think they’ve improved, while 23% say they’re about the same.The CTF says the results show that taxpayers are frustrated with rising government costs and want action. The group is calling on Prime Minister Mark Carney to cut back on federal staffing and spending.
