Editor:
People are suffering and afraid because they are losing good paying jobs. That is because companies are run for profit and automation and moving to countries with lower wages is more profitable. The answer is, not to lower taxes, but to tax the profits.
We must break the bond between work and income. The transition will be difficult, as work gives a sense of worth, companionship and social satisfaction. A good start is the four day work week to share the work.
Let’s get beyond the “team sport” of politics and think about what policies would really lead to the common good. Good government should make everyone secure, not create conflict and insecurity. Good government is about policy, not a game of my team your team.
What is good for Canada are policies for Gross National Happiness not Gross National Product.
Do we really want to lose our clean air and water and a livable Earth, because it is fun to chant together “Axe the Tax?” Do we really want to lose women’s rights, because it is fun to chant together, “Axe the Tax?”
We need less stuff and more quality of life. It is time to claim the Brave New World of the automated future we were promised, of more time to enjoy while the machines worked.
Let’s love people, not things.
Joan Payne
Sechelt
