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Cross Country Checkup·SUNDAY ON CHECKUP

Is Canada spending too much or too little on defence?

The federal government announced an $8 billion increase in military spending in the 2022 federal budget. Our question this week: Is Canada spending too much or too little on defence? Is Canada a country of peacekeepers or fighters?

Are we peacekeepers or fighters? Call us: 1-888-416-8333

CBC News ·
Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland tables the federal budget in the House of Commons as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau looks on in Ottawa. A number of Liberal election promises weren't included in Freeland's second budget as finance minister. (Adrian Wyld/Canadian Press)
Cross Country Checkup1:53:00FULL EPISODE: Is Canada spending too much or too little on defence?

This week Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland announced the Liberal government will increase defence spending by $8 billion over five years, a move widely anticipated in advance of the tabling of the federal budget.

Of that spending, $500 million has been set aside to arm Ukraine to resist Russia's invasion. However, Canada will not meet NATO's request of two percent of GDP for defence funding — instead, it is projected to be 1.5 of GDP. 

Our question this week:  Is Canada spending too much or too little on defence? Are we peacekeepers or fighters?

Plus, Ask Me Anything about what you need to know about the sixth wave of COVID-19 that is striking many places across the country. Dr. Lynora Saxinger answers your questions.

Tell us what you think: Call us on Sunday at 1-888-416-8333, email us, or find us on Facebook and Twitter.

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