Wednesday, the federal government laid out its short and long-term plan to guide the country through the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic in their throne speech.

The speech touched on a number of topics, from jobs to climate change, and the government's pledge to get more women into the workforce, as well as promising significant, long term, sustained investment to create a Canada-wide early learning and childcare system.

Conservative MP for Moose Jaw, Lake Centre, Lanigan, Tom Lukiwski, said he thinks Canadians should be a bit hesitant before getting excited.

"I would caution Canadians before they get too excited about some of the commitments made, that they wait until later this year when we see actual numbers put to some of these commitments. Lots of things were promised, very little in terms of fiscal probity, and very little in terms of any real dollar attachment to the promises made."

The speech also covered regional air travel, where the government said they will be working with partners to support regional routes for airlines, saying it's essential for Canadians to have reliable and affordable regional air service

A short portion also touched on systematic racism, promising to introduce legislation that would shake up the criminal justice system, including enhanced civilian oversight for the RCMP.

There was, however, one part of the speech that Lukiwski was in favour of; the government continuing to fight for free trade, including by leading the Ottawa Group to reform the World Trade Organization.

"I've always, always encouraged governments, both federal and provincial, to see new free trade opportunities, whether it be interprovincial or international. I'm encouraged to see this government saying that they are looking at trying to expand free trade opportunities, and get more market access for Canada."

The government also announced that it would be extending the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy through to next summer. The initial program was updated in July, which both expanded eligibility, as well as reduced the subsidy rate.