Bernier vows to end 'imperial federalism', give power back to provinces

Maxime Bernier has vowed to end what he described as "imperial federalism" in Canada, and return power back to the provinces.

The People's Party of Canada leader argued that Ottawa "interferes in areas where it has no business."

"Albertans, like Quebecers, have been very concerned for a long time about the erosion of provincial autonomy," Bernier said during a press conference in Calgary on Tuesday.

"Canada's federal system was designed to ensure a clear division of powers between the federal and provincial governments ... however over the years, the federal government has encroached on areas of provincial jurisdiction creating what can only be described as imperial federalism."

Bernier cited education, healthcare, housing, and natural resource management as examples of areas where Ottawa had crossed the line, suggesting that this "intrusion" has resulted in "inefficiencies, duplication of services, and a lack of accountability."

"Instead of letting provinces address the unique needs of their populations, the federal government imposes one-size fits all solutions that often fail to consider regional differences," he lamented. "The federal government also constantly uses its so-called spending power ... to intervene in provincial exclusive jurisdictions."

Bernier went on to take aim at the Trudeau Liberals' for "undermin[ing] federalism" by creating new national programs such as daycare, pharmacare, and dental care, suggesting that their actions had worked to "feed the separatist movements in Quebec and Alberta."

"The People's Party believes it is time to restore the balance of power and return to a system of true federalism that respects the Constitution and empowers provinces to take charge of their own affairs," he declared. "We will respect provincial jurisdictions and end all federal intrusions into areas of provincial responsibility."

The PPC leader argued that when it comes to healthcare, for example, provinces are essentially forced to do things a certain way when they receive transfer payments from Ottawa.

He said a PPC government would replace the transfers by giving provinces control over the GST to raise "equivalent amounts of money" and do things as they see fit.

"The People's Party will support Albertans who want more freedom and autonomy from Ottawa," Bernier continued, adding that his government would "reform the unfair equalization formula and drastically cut the amounts that are redistributed to provinces."

He concluded by declaring that it was past time for Ottawa to "mind its own business."