Despite promising the federal NDP they would get a pharmacare bill passed by the end of this year, the Trudeau Liberals are unlikely do so.

“Well ya, I don’t think we’re going to get it passed by the end of this year, but we’ll definitely keep working and those conversations are productive, and it’s part of the SACA (Supply and Confidence Agreement with the New Democrats) and those conversations are positive, they’re ongoing and I have confidence we’ll get to where we need to,” Government House Leader Karina Gould explained to reporters Tuesday.

There has been a push by CARP members for not only a pharmacare act but also for full dental care.

“Some form of universal dental care and pharmacare is important starting from the most vulnerable groups and expanding when the resources are available,” said CARP President Rudy Buttingnol to guest host Jane Brown on Zoomer Radio’s Fight Back with Libby Znaimer.

Just last week, Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland released a fall economic statement that included new guardrails for the size of federal deficits going forward with little room for new spending until at least 2027.

When asked whether the government can afford a universal pharmacare program, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has said the Liberals will continue to work in responsible ways to ensure Canadians can afford to stay healthy.

NDP House Leader Peter Julian says the New Democrats are still hoping a pharmacare bill can be introduced but acknowledges the government needs more time.