KLEIN: Empowerment, not dependency: A call for government reform

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In recent years, it seems that governments are increasingly trying to make us more dependent on their support in life. Programs such as school meal initiatives and small operating grants to addiction services organizations may indeed have good intentions, but often fail to deliver meaningful solutions. Instead of promoting independence and self-sufficiency, these measures often result in a cycle of dependency that benefits no one in the long run.

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Take, for example, the government’s approach to addressing food insecurity. The Canadian Association of Food Banks recently reported that 51% of Canadians fear they won’t be able to put food on the table. This alarming statistic highlights the seriousness of the situation. However, instead of implementing measures that would enable people to support themselves, the government continues to raise taxes and introduce policies that put even more strain on household budgets. Inflation got out of control and instead of easing the burden, the carbon tax was increased again, forcing consumer prices up on all products, including food.

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It can be argued that school meal programs are a necessary safety net, but why do so many families need this safety net in the first place? If the government focused on reducing taxes, people would have more of their own money to spend on basic items like food. By lowering taxes, especially for low- and middle-income families, the government could enable citizens to take care of their own needs, reducing the need for widespread emergency support.

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Affordable housing is another key issue where the government is not taking adequate action. The government offers grants for others to take action, but these funds are limited and often insufficient. The solution lies in more direct and decisive government action to make housing truly affordable. This could be achieved by eliminating the educational property tax on affordable rental properties, reducing the cost of building permits for affordable housing, and eliminating the GST and PST on construction materials used in these projects. These steps, combined with stringent requirements to ensure that benefits reach those who need them, can make a real difference.

The problem with current government policy is that it provides enough support to maintain dependency, but not enough to enable true independence. For example, small operating grants to organizations that help people with addiction are a lifesaver, but they often lack the resources needed to make a significant impact. Comprehensive solutions require adequate financing and strategic planning, not piecemeal assistance that barely scratches the surface.

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Inflation and rising costs of living are exacerbated by policies such as carbon taxes. While environmental protection is critical, the implementation of such taxes should be balanced by the economic realities faced by ordinary Canadians. Rather than increasing consumers’ financial burdens, the government should look for ways to mitigate these impacts, such as offering rebates or incentives for sustainable practices that do not disproportionately impact low-income households.

When I was in government, I overheard a group of politicians discussing a strategy for sending residents a check. They believed that people would remember the check and still vote for the official who sent it. This is the brutal reality when it comes to politics. Elected officials are driven by the desire for likes, shares and more followers. They use your taxes to promote themselves while in office so that their name will be remembered in the next election – essentially using your money for their campaign.

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Many politicians will spend a lot of time, effort and resources to choose the most popular decision rather than the most efficient, affordable and effective one that will truly benefit citizens. Their primary goal is often to find a solution that serves their re-election prospects rather than the best interests of voters.

The government must shift its focus from maintaining a cycle of dependency to supporting an environment in which people can thrive independently. This includes empowering citizens through tax cuts, comprehensive support programs that provide significant assistance, and policies that actually address the root causes of problems like food insecurity and affordable housing shortages.

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The government should work to create an economic environment that encourages job creation and economic growth. Cutting red tape and offering incentives for businesses to invest and grow can lead to greater job opportunities and higher wages, further reducing the need for government aid.

It is vital that the government reassesses its approach and starts taking decisive action that will empower people rather than keep them dependent. This means implementing policies that provide real, meaningful benefits and opportunities for all citizens. By lowering taxes, reducing unnecessary costs and offering significant support where it’s needed most, the government can help Canadians regain their independence and improve their quality of life.

While government intentions may be noble, current approaches often fail to provide the necessary support to truly empower individuals. It’s time for a change in strategy – one that focuses on creating an environment where people can thrive independently. By taking decisive and significant action, the government can help build a stronger, more self-sufficient Canada where all citizens have the opportunity to succeed.

— Kevin Klein is a former Tory cabinet minister, former city councilor and former publisher of the Winnipeg Sun.

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