“ It’s time for a change. Stephen Harper and the Conservatives in Parliament have made it clear that their top priorities are big business and rewarding political insiders. The Harper Government has provided over $50 billion in corporate tax cuts, while increasing the tax burden on hard-working Canadian families. Paul Szabo and the Liberals did nothing to stop him. Only New Democrats stood up to Mr. Harper, and we did it for you.„
During the run-up to this campaign, I have had the opportunity to speak with many of you about your concerns for this election. Well, I’ve heard your voices loud and clear. Below are the most important issues to Mississauga South residents, as well as my practical, cost-effective solution to each of them.
Table of Contents:
Taxes
Problem:
Conservatives in Parliament and Liberals in the Legislature introduced the HST in Ontario in spite of overwhelming opposition from voters (74% opposed). The new tax applies to most everyday items, including hundreds of items that were not taxed under the old
Environment
Problem:
Globally Canada has abandoned the Kyoto emission targets. Nationally Harper renewed $1.4 billion in annual subsidies for companies developing Alberta’s tar sands. The environment is at risk and the government lacks the incentive to protect it
Education
Problem:
Education is becoming less accessible to the average Canadian. With tuitions fees tripling since 1990, the undergrad debt has become an average of 25,
Jobs
Problem:
Every day 150 jobs are lost in Canada. Something needs to be done to stop and reverse this!
Dignity for Canada’s Seniors
Problem:
A quarter million seniors in Canada are struggling in poverty. Millions more are worried about real retirement security. The average family’s saving rate has collapsed and only a privileged few can count on employer pensions
Protecting the Average Consumer
Problem:
Prices for essential goods are soaring and average wages remain stagnant. Families in Canada are struggling to make ends meet. Canadian consumers are paying billions of dollars on prescription drugs, unfair ATM fees, and abusive credit card interest rates. The average family’s savings rate has plummeted to 2% of income. Stress levels are growing as comfortable retirement seems impossible
Health
Problem:
Wait times in hospitals are unbelievable. There is nursing shortages, and five million Canadians cannot find a family doctor. There is a lack of dignified long-term care spaces and adequate prescription drug coverage
Equality for Canadian Women
Problem:
More than half of single women over 65 now live in poverty. Meanwhile having the same job title, Canadian women earn 30% less of what men do. If that is not enough, Stephan Harper has cut funding to essential program that ensure women have tools and opportunities to move forward
Government Reform
Problem:
Canada’s 19th century institutions are outdated and badly equipped to meet the needs of Canadians in the 21st century
