The government of Ottawa is in the process of recruiting a permanent parliamentary budget officer (PBO) who possesses qualities of “tact and discretion.” This initiative follows the recent appointment of an interim fiscal watchdog who has been critically assessing fiscal matters.
The current list of governor-in-council appointments includes a vacancy for a new budget officer, an independent entity of Parliament responsible for providing analyses on budgets, campaign commitments, and other financial plans. Jason Jacques, a seasoned member of the office, was named interim PBO by the Liberals for a six-month term in early September, prior to the commencement of House of Commons sessions.
While a PBO can serve for up to seven years with the possibility of renewal, a permanent appointment necessitates approval from Parliament. Since assuming the role, Jacques has been vocal in his criticisms of the government’s fiscal strategies.
In his initial weeks as interim PBO, Jacques described Ottawa’s spending pace as “stupefying,” “shocking,” and “unsustainable.” He also raised doubts about the existence of fiscal anchors within the Liberal policies, a viewpoint that was countered by Prime Minister Mark Carney and Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne.
Jacques has yet to comment on the federal budget unveiled on November 4, with his office indicating that an analysis will be released in the upcoming weeks to coincide with parliamentary deliberations on the proposed expenditures. Kevin Page, Canada’s inaugural PBO, assessed the budget with a B-plus grade in an op-ed published in the Toronto Star.
The Conservatives have urged the Liberals to appoint Jacques to a full term as PBO, alleging that the six-month interim period grants Ottawa the authority to dismiss him based on his critiques. A spokesperson from the Prime Minister’s Office affirmed that Jacques can apply for the permanent role.
The job posting specifies that Ottawa seeks an individual well-versed in fiscal policy and parliamentary operations. The ideal candidate should exhibit sound judgment, “tact and discretion,” and have the ability to communicate complex policy matters in an impartial manner. The PBO position offers a salary range of $225,300 to $265,000, with application reviews scheduled to commence on December 8.
