A group of Members of Parliament is requesting the government to provide a list of potential candidates for the position of the permanent Parliamentary Budget Officer (PBO). This request comes after the interim fiscal watchdog expressed concerns regarding Canada’s financial situation.
During a meeting of the House government operations committee, a motion was passed asking for a subcommittee to conduct private interviews with the candidates and then recommend suitable individuals for the permanent PBO role. Conservative MP Kelly Block, who presented the motion, emphasized the importance of appointing a PBO vetted by parliamentarians on a full-time basis.
The motion was supported by Conservatives and Bloc members but faced opposition from the Liberals. The PBO is an impartial officer of Parliament responsible for providing independent economic and financial analysis to both the Senate and the House of Commons.
Currently, the PBO is appointed by the government after consulting with leaders of recognized parties and groups in Parliament, with approval required from both chambers. Block suggested that the interview process she proposed should be considered part of the consultation process outlined in the relevant legislation.
The motion was passed following the appointment of Jason Jacques as the interim PBO earlier this year. In his initial committee appearance, Jacques criticized government spending as “stupefying,” “shocking,” and “unsustainable.” However, in a recent report following the release of the federal budget, he stated that while deficit targets may not be met, the country’s finances are sustainable in the long run.
The government issued a call for applications for a permanent PBO position after the budget release, emphasizing the need for candidates with “tact and discretion.” During the committee meeting, Conservative MP Tamara Jansen questioned Jacques about the wording in the job posting, suggesting that the government may be seeking someone less inclined to criticize its fiscal policies.
Jacques clarified that the requirement for tact and discretion applies to all interactions with parliamentarians, emphasizing the importance of confidentiality. The Conservatives have urged the Liberals to appoint Jacques to a full term, expressing concerns that the interim period gives the government leverage to dismiss him for his critiques. A spokesperson from the Prime Minister’s Office confirmed that Jacques is eligible to apply for the permanent position.
The PBO can serve for up to seven years with the possibility of renewal.
