Tax dollars must be spent to aid others

If we’re only worried about reducing the deficit and cutting taxes, Todd Mackay and Donna Harpauer might be consoled by the current numbers (Harpauer off to good start on reducing red ink, July 26).

But we know that it is less expensive to have engaging public health care and a fully funded education system. It is also cheaper to deter and penalize polluters than to clean up their oily or salty spills or deal with their waste.

Similarly, the increasing global costs related to climate change and the disaster insurance system tells me to reduce our emissions and avoid those undesirable costs.

Likewise, it has been shown numerous times in this province that eliminating poverty and homelessness is less expensive to our taxpayers than increasing costs associated with poor determinants of health like crime, poor nutrition, unemployment, the lack of shelter and abuse.

We have a better life sitting in front of us if we choose to build it. Living carbon neutral means no pollution. Housing First means everyone has a home where they are safe. Dealing with reconciliation refreshes our relationship with our Indigenous brothers and sisters and reduces racism, discrimination and abuse.

Don’t be blinded by the repeated and repetitious mantra of the corporations and austerity junkies. We need to be spending and directing our public dollars to help everyone live a good, healthy life on this planet.

The one per cent doesn’t need any more tax breaks. In fact, they need to be paying their fair share into the commons that is society. Those that need support should get support.

Jim Elliott, Regina chapter, Council of Canadians chairperson