Jack Mintz generally agrees with the governments new policy framework. In his commentary, Jack presents a position that management control by SOE can lead to reduced economic performance.
Regulation
Ontario Politicians Finally Having a Mature Discussion About Alcohol
Ontario has long had a puritanical streak that vexes observers. This is most evident in the way that the provincial government treats alcohol. The province still has a government run liquor monopoly — the Liquor Control Board of Ontario — which was set up to transition the province out of prohibition, and grants the Molson-Labatt owned Beer Store a virtual monopoly over beer. The drinking age remains 19, high by international standards, and the 2am last call remains in place (believe it or not, it was 1am until Mike Harris’ government). While the latter may seem normal by North Ameican standards, it seems odd that a major world city such as Toronto has to tell it’s adult residents and tourists to kindly go to bed at 2am. If the above hasn’t convinced you that Ontario politicians have a puritanical attitude towards liquor, consider this: happy hour is illegal in Ontario.
Saskatchewan (Somewhat) Modernizes Liquor Policies
While the provincial government seems reluctant to make changes that will reduce the cost of alcohol, wine, or beer, they have introduced some modest changes to update the provinces out of date liquor laws.
Saskatchewan May Finally Lower Drinking Age to 18
According to today’s Leader-Post, the Saskatchewan Party is considering joining the Alberta and Manitoba in setting the legal minimum drinking age at 18.
Featured News
Promote Equity by Providing a Quality Education
Earlier this year, a group called Equity Matters asked the province to establish an education equity secretariat. They want this office to oversee equity officers working in Manitoba schools. Equity Matters wants to ensure that all Manitoba students are reflected in...
Why Frances Widdowson Matters
Frances Widdowson probably isn't someone most Canadians recognize. I'm here to tell you why they should. In terms of Canada's intellectual culture, Frances Widdowson matters because she is a classic and prolific academic. In a time when demagoguery easily flourishes,...
Rent Control In Winnipeg
This short report discusses the damage caused by rent control in Winnipeg and suggests approaches to ease out of them
CRTC Powerless To Regulate Internet
The Canadian Radio-Television and Telecommunications Commission, has carved out a contentious niche for itself as the protector of Canadian culture. It is now turning its attention to the Internet. An attempt to impose such controls on the Internet has a zero chance of success.
Don’t Panic About Proposed Bank Mergers
Panic over the intended merger of the Bank of Montreal and the Royal Bank might have made sense a few decades ago. But times have changed.