The old catchphrase “we are the most taxed in North America” went on like an old neoliberal record skipping. It is a dubious paradigm. In the age of globalization, we can compare ourselves beyond our neighbours.
In the latest news, I have not seen in the United States or in the provinces a way of life so exceptional that it is absolutely necessary to draw inspiration from it. Moreover, the two countries that are at the top of the UN list of the happiest countries are those that pay the most taxes, namely Finland and Denmark.
Frustrated Alberta
Let’s look at Alberta. These frustrated people on the right who already live in a province where the State is practically absent, where provincial taxes are low, do not seem to shine with an excess of collective happiness. The every man for himself seems rather to participate in a growing frustration.
So, no, the United States or Alberta are not idyllic little bits of paradise to be reproduced at all costs.
Second, we are currently experiencing stronger economic growth than Ontario and are less indebted than them. Why change the recipe?
Shoveling the tax cuts forward
Moreover, we do not have the means: the CAQ will dip into the Generations Fund; the PLQ announces a deficit for seven years; the conservatives, to butcher the missions of the State and live off oil. Beautiful programs!
Lower taxes while everything is cracking
While our public services are struggling, there is a lack of teachers, specialists in schools, waiting lists for daycare or a doctor are exploding, security in the metropolis is worrying.
We hesitate to invest in public transport, the delays in court are interminable, there is a lack of social housing, social assistance is starving, seniors have too low incomes.
After the period of austerity that followed the last tax cut, it seems to me that we should consolidate the essential missions. Cutting state revenues when a recession may be ahead of us…responsible?