IMO, these remarks are simply political speak for a losing gov't who is trying to capture votes. The LPC with the NPD signed several bills committing a significant amount of money into social programs without paying much attention to shepherding and encouraging businesses with tax costs or more friendly regulations to ensure future economic growth. Given the current budget deficit and the growing pressure caused by managing it, there will not be much leeway by any gov't to adequately fund national defence/security priorities.
When the PM mentioned the possbility of acquiring nuclear submarines and the CDS was suprised to hear that, this means to me that the PM was speaking out of his ass. Of course this is political speak to make it look like the gov't is "exploring all options" - which means we will talk about it but do minimal work or window dressing to make it look like we are exploring without committing any major amounts funds to really explore the options.
Realistically, based on the current financial situation - replacement of the Victoria Class submarines will not happen, or if it does, it will be a classic case of fitted for, but not with in order to make it affordable.
BLUF: Canada will not get the right submarines it desparately requires.