Dr. Tom Todd & Celina Tuttle of the Lanark Basic Income Network made their pitch to Perth council at a recent committee meeting for support of a national basic income program for Canadians.
They pointed out the three big benefits of such a program to help reduce the risk of individuals falling into poverty:
First, they said it would improve financial stability and flexibility, pointing out that almost everyone is vulnerable due uncontrollable circumstances such as inflation, unemployment/low-wage employment, disability, divorce, injury, physical or mental illness.
Second, it would improve individual and family health, both physical and mental, thereby improving public/community health and reducing demand on healthcare services.
Thirdly, it would help stimulate local economies as people have more money to spend bringing a increase in demand for goods and services.
They reported existing businesses would be more likely to prosper, more new ventures would open and available jobs would be more likely to increase.
Story by Brian Turner
