The federal government’s GST holiday, running from December 14, 2024, to February 15, 2025, aims to ease financial pressure for Canadians during the holiday season. By temporarily waiving GST/HST on select items like children’s clothing, diapers, books, prepared meals, and even Christmas trees, the initiative provides some relief during a time of high expenses. While it may seem like a win for families, a deeper examination through a centrist lens raises questions about its overall effectiveness and fairness.

The ongoing Canada Post strike has thrown a spotlight on a key challenge for modern governance: balancing the needs of workers, businesses, and the public during labor disputes. At the Centrist Party of Peterborough, we believe this situation highlights the value of centrist principles—pragmatism, inclusivity, and evidence-based solutions.