A basic income would be a great first move - Aug. 31

I was pleased to read this article. Many readers may not be aware that the Ontario government has appointed retired senator Hugh Segal as special adviser on basic income. Following consultation with various groups, he will deliver a discussion paper this fall regarding possible ways to implement a pilot project on basic income as promised in the 2016 budget.

Research has demonstrated poverty and social exclusion (among other social conditions) are significant determinants of poor health and shorter life spans. One way we can reduce future costs to our health-care system is to ensure that everyone has enough money to stay above the poverty line - a goal our current welfare system fails to achieve. Too many people on social assistance or disability benefits are discouraged from trying to find work because of the disincentives within the current system. We spend large sums to administer a diverse range of means-tested benefits, but we fail to provide the minimum support people need to risk starting a new business or improving their skills in response to the changing job market.

I eagerly await Segal's recommendations, the decisions regarding the location(s) of the pilot project, and the research that will inform us about the best ways to make a basic income for all Ontarians a reality.

Carol Stalker

Basic Income Waterloo Region

Waterloo