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Kevin Klein: "Empowerment, not dependence: A call for government reform"



In recent years, it seems as though governments have been increasingly working to make us more reliant on their support to live. Programs like school meal initiatives and small operating grants to organizations providing addiction help are indeed well-intentioned, but they often fall short of offering substantial solutions. Instead of fostering independence and self-sufficiency, these measures often result in a cycle of dependency that benefits no one in the long term.


Take, for instance, the government’s approach to addressing food insecurity. The Canadian Association of Food Banks recently reported that 51% of Canadians are afraid they may not be able to put food on the table. This alarming statistic underscores the gravity of the situation. Yet, instead of implementing measures that would empower people to provide for themselves, the government continues to increase taxes and introduce policies that further strain household budgets. Inflation is out of control, and instead of alleviating this burden, the carbon tax was increased again, forcing an increase in consumer prices for all products, including food.


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


Read more in the Winnipeg Sun, click here.

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