Prime Minister Mark Carney says his government will push ahead with affordability measures after the Liberal Party secured a majority in the House of Commons and announced a temporary suspension of federal fuel taxes.
The Liberals reached majority status on April 13, 2026, following victories in three key federal byelections and a series of floor crossings by opposition members of Parliament in recent months. As of April 14, the party holds 174 seats, surpassing the 172 required for a majority.
Current standings in the House of Commons place the Conservatives at 140 seats, the Bloc Québécois at 22, the New Democratic Party at six and the Green Party at one.
In a statement, Carney congratulated newly elected members of Parliament Tatiana Auguste, Danielle Martin and Doly Begum, who won seats in Terrebonne, University–Rosedale and Scarborough Southwest.
“I want to congratulate Tatiana Auguste, Danielle Martin, and Doly Begum on their election as the new Members of Parliament for Terrebonne, University-Rosedale, and Scarborough Southwest.”
Carney also acknowledged all candidates who participated in the byelections.
“I also thank every candidate who put their name forward, across all parties. In doing so, you have strengthened our democracy at a decisive moment for Canada.”
The prime minister said voters have endorsed the government’s plan and emphasized a commitment to collaboration despite holding a majority.
“Tonight, voters have placed their trust in our new government’s plan. We accept that support with humility, determination and a clear understanding of what this moment demands.”
“This is a time to come together so we can build a Canada strong for all.”
The majority comes as the federal government moves to introduce cost-of-living relief, including a temporary suspension of the fuel excise tax on gasoline and diesel.
The measure will take effect April 20, 2026, and remain in place until Sept. 7, 2026. Officials say the suspension is expected to lower prices by about 10 cents per litre on regular gasoline and four cents per litre on diesel. The government will also temporarily suspend the federal fuel excise tax on aviation fuels.
The announcement comes amid rising global fuel prices tied to ongoing conflict and supply disruptions in the Middle East, which the government says are affecting costs worldwide.
Officials say the tax break is intended to provide immediate relief for households and businesses, including those in the food, agriculture, housing, construction and delivery sectors, where fuel costs are a significant expense.
“We’re building a stronger, more resilient, and more independent Canadian economy. As we build, we’re cutting your taxes, reducing the costs of your homes, and providing you relief at the pump. We cannot control what other nations do. We’re focused on what we can control – building Canada strong for all,” said Carney.
Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne said the move is aimed at helping Canadians manage affordability pressures tied to global energy markets.
“To support Canadians through the current global energy market disruptions, our government is delivering timely, meaningful, and tangible relief for Canadians at a time when they need it. By lowering fuel costs at the pump on gasoline and diesel, we’re taking a concrete step to support Canadians through these challenges, as we position them for long-term success – by building the strongest economy in the G7,” he said.
Energy and Natural Resources Minister Tim Hodgson said the measure balances short-term affordability with long-term energy goals.
“While we build more affordable, sovereign energy at home for the grid of tomorrow, we are providing relief for the affordability challenges caused by events abroad today. Being an energy superpower means delivering energy Canadians can afford, whether they are paying household bills or filling up their car,” he said.
Carney said his government will continue to work with all parties in Parliament despite holding a majority.
“That is how we will continue to govern. We will work with all parties and solicit all perspectives in Parliament. The work ahead demands collaboration, partnership, and ambition to deliver at the speed and scale Canadians are counting on.”
He added that the government will focus on affordability, job creation and long-term economic growth.
“We are building a stronger economy to make life more affordable, to create high-paying jobs, to take care of each other and to determine our own future.”
“We will build a Canada that is not just strong, but good; not just prosperous, but fair; not just for some, most of the time, but for all, all of the time.”
“That is the responsibility we have been given by Canadians. We will achieve it together.”
