In this interview with BNN, Ed Devlin gives his perspective on the response that the Government of Canada has had thus far to the COVID-19 pandemic and how this might affect the economy in the long term. Mr. Devlin opened by stating that the recent use of countercyclical fiscal policy was critical, as it kept the economy alive through the initial shock of the pandemic. Moving forward, however, the big challenge will be to find a way to ensure Canada can transition towards a dynamic 21st-century economy while addressing key concerns such as climate change and income inequality. While there is still lots of uncertainty, and things like possible pandemic-related costs must be dealt with, low-interest rates mean that wise investments now can help facilitate that transition with minimal costs in long term interest payments. The risk, Mr. Devlin noted, is that poorly executed investments could leave Canada burdened by debt with little to show for it. The emphasis has to be on good planning and good implementation so that investments are productive now, and over the long term when interest rates might rise. Ultimately, according to him, Canada must make the most of the opportunity which the Bank of Canada has provided.
Risk to economy is big spending programs not implemented properly: Ed Devlin
Aug 19, 2020