In recent years, equalization and other regional subsidies have captured the attention of many Albertans. Much useful research has been done at the University of Calgary and by the former Wildrose Party. There has been extensive comment in Alberta’s media …
The Unintended Consequences of Canada’s Equalization Program: How Canada’s equalization program has some provinces more equal than others
The stated objective of Canada’s equalization program is to ensure provincial governments in less-prosperous regions of the country are able to deliver high-quality public services to residents. This is a worthwhile, even noble objective. That the program is motivated by …
Radio interview with David Mackinnon (580 CFRA)
Frontier Senior Fellow David Mackinnon discusses the problems with Canada’s antiquated equalization system and how it suppresses growth in recipient provinces. On 580 CFRA News Talk Radio on December 11, 2018 with Rob Snow. Listen here.
It is Time for a Fundamental Course Change by Atlantic Canadians Respecting Equalization and other Regional Subsidies
Earlier this week, as a Senior Fellow with both the Atlantic Institute for Market Studies and the Frontier Centre for Public Policy, I made a presentation to independent Senators in Ottawa. Senators were advised that Canada’s regional subsidies were ineffective. …
Time to Rethink the Federal Transfers System
It is time for a fundamental course change by Atlantic Canadians respecting equalization and other regional subsidies. Earlier this week I made a presentation to independent Senators in Ottawa on this subject, in which I advised them that Canada’s regional …
The Paradox of Equalization
The Frontier Centre for Public Policy has just released a new research paper, The Paradox of Equalization Solving In-equity by Increasing Disparities by Jake Fuss, a research associate with the Frontier Centre for Public Policy. This research paper offers recommendations …
The Equalization Debate
In recent days, readers of the Guardian have read very different articles on equalization, one by Premier Wade MacLauchlan and one by me. This is healthy. One hopes that the debate continues. It is important to be factual as we …
Let’s Make Equalization Accountable
Equalization diminishes productivity, hinders sustainable economic development, and lacks accountability and transparency. The federal government transfers billions of dollars in Equalization to provinces each year without evaluating whether the transfers achieve the intended goals. Here are three ideas for change. …
Equalization Hurts Every Canadian
The controversies that have erupted over equalization in recent days must seem tiresome to many Canadians. Our national debates on equalization have been marked by conflict, obscure technical jargon, little research on the impact of the program, excessive vitriol and …