Overview of the Promise

During the 2025 federal election campaign, Mark Carney, as leader of the Liberal Party, promised to establish a new in vitro fertilization (IVF) program. This initiative aimed to provide up to $20,000 in funding for a single standard cycle of IVF treatment. The promise emphasized making parenthood more affordable for Canadians, with a particular focus on 2SLGBTQI+ individuals who often face higher costs in their journey to parenthood. Additionally, the commitment included working collaboratively with provinces and territories to ensure broader access to this support across the country.

Actions Taken by the Carney Government

Since assuming office in May 2025 following the Liberal Party's election victory on April 29, 2025, the Carney government has prioritized several policy areas, including immigration reforms, trade relations with the United States, and public safety measures. However, there have been no public announcements, budget allocations, or policy developments specifically addressing the establishment of the promised federal IVF program. The government's official website and recent speeches by Prime Minister Carney, such as those on Canada Day and during international visits, have focused on national unity, economic stability, and health care modernization in general terms, but without mentioning IVF funding.

Legislation and Proposals Related to the Promise

No legislation has been proposed or passed by the federal government to implement this IVF program as of August 29, 2025. The promise was part of the Liberal Party's "Canada Strong" platform, which allocated $400 million for the initiative over four years. Despite this, the minority government has not introduced bills or amendments to existing health care laws, such as the Canada Health Act, to facilitate the program's creation. There is also no evidence of formal negotiations or agreements with provincial and territorial governments to coordinate funding or access, as outlined in the promise.

Focus on Specific Elements of the Promise

The promise's core element—providing up to $20,000 per IVF cycle—has not been actioned, with no federal funding mechanism established. Efforts to make it more affordable for all Canadians, especially 2SLGBTQI+ communities, remain unaddressed at the national level. While British Columbia launched its own provincial IVF funding program in July 2025, offering one publicly funded cycle, this is a separate initiative stemming from the province's 2024 budget and not linked to federal collaboration under Carney's promise. No other provinces have reported federal partnerships on this issue.

Current Status and Potential Path Forward

With only four months since the election, the lack of any initial steps, such as consultations with stakeholders or inclusion in the upcoming federal budget, indicates that work on this promise has not commenced. To fulfill the promise, the government would need to propose and pass enabling legislation, allocate the pledged $400 million, and engage in intergovernmental discussions to ensure nationwide access. Failure to take these steps by the end of the fiscal year could lead to the promise being considered at risk of being broken, particularly if budget priorities shift toward other areas like tariff responses or deficit reduction.

Overall Status

This promise is not started.