The Globe and Mail reports in its Wednesday edition that Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne released a spring economic statement Tuesday that accounts for more than $54-billion in new spending over six years, while still beating the government's deficit targets thanks to improved growth forecasts. A triple-bylined item led by Bill Curry says that much of that new spending includes recent multibillion-dollar announcements such as boosting the GST credit and a short-term break on gas taxes. The major new funding announced for the first time Tuesday includes about $6-billion over five years for a package of incentives aimed at education and the skilled trades, which the government calls "Team Canada Strong." As Prime Minister Mark Carney prioritizes major new infrastructure and energy projects, the package is aimed at ensuring Canada has the skilled labour available to take on the expected boost in construction jobs across the country. Scotiabank economist Rebekah Young said much of the fiscal improvement is due to upgraded revenue forecasts. "I would have anticipated more conservatism in the fiscal developments given the uncertainties we have ahead," she said. "But there's a hefty spending package here."