OTTAWA - As Parliament reconvened on Monday, the anticipated collaboration between the Liberals and Conservatives appeared elusive. Government House Leader Steven MacKinnon expressed skepticism about the potential for cooperation with Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, despite the minority government's reliance on opposition votes to advance its agenda. "Mr. Poilievre has a big decision to make. He can continue with the three-word slogans, or he can sit down and work on real solutions with the Liberal government," MacKinnon stated.

In a speech to his caucus on Sunday, Poilievre indicated that his MPs are open to working with any party, but he criticized the government's performance. "(Prime Minister Mark Carney) promised that after 10 years of Liberal government driving up costs and crime and chaos, that he would be different. And yet, sadly, everything is worse," Poilievre said. He added, "That is not what Canadians voted for. What we are getting from Mark Carney is the same Liberal bait-and-switch. Say one thing and do the opposite."

MacKinnon outlined the Liberal government's agenda following the summer break. A key priority is garnering support for an upcoming austerity budget, which is expected to reveal a "substantial" deficit. He acknowledged that the minority government will require opposition backing for other legislation, including a contentious border security bill. MacKinnon emphasized the government's willingness to consider "constructive criticism" and "responsible alternative policies."

Despite the tensions, the Liberals and Conservatives successfully collaborated in the spring to pass major projects legislation, with the first fast-tracked projects announced last week. However, significant differences remain, particularly in criminal justice policy. Conservative justice critic Larry Brock urged that the Liberals' proposed bail reform should incorporate elements from the "jail not bail act" introduced by the Conservatives. This proposal aims to make it more difficult for individuals charged with violent offenses in the past decade to receive bail.

MacKinnon noted that Justice Minister Sean Fraser will introduce bills addressing hate crimes and violence, promising efficient debate on these issues. He reiterated that while the government is open to finding common ground, it will not compromise on core principles. "A wise man once said you don’t negotiate on principles, but we can negotiate on details," he remarked.

The Liberals currently hold 169 seats in the 343-seat House of Commons, needing just three additional votes to pass legislation. Bloc Québécois Leader Yves-François Blanchet expressed a willingness to collaborate with other parties if it benefits Quebec, but he criticized MacKinnon for sending mixed messages. "Mr. MacKinnon might eventually have to knock on (Bloc Québécois House leader Christine Normandin’s) door and explain why he says one thing and it’s contrary in the same sentence," Blanchet said. He added, "There will be no negotiation, but we want to collaborate — what does that mean? Obey? Become Liberals? Might not happen."

The New Democratic Party (NDP) is currently in the early stages of a leadership contest after securing only seven seats in the April election, resulting in the loss of recognized party status. Green Party Leader Elizabeth May stated her focus will be on ensuring the government meets Canada's international climate targets. Recently, Carney and several ministers have been vague about the government's commitment to existing greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets under the Paris climate agreement.