Federal gov’t bailout for media firms self-serving?

EDITOR:

“Ottawa releases fiscal update,” including a $595-million bailout package to Canadian media companies. I say what a brilliant move by the prime minister. The media could even be paid to help the PM in the next election.

I can just imagine what questions will appear on the application form in order to qualify. Most likely something like this: Dear applicant, an answer to one question will be sufficient. Question: do you know what it means to be a Canadian citizen, and agree with the basic philosophy of life, as it is understood by Justin Trudeau, yes or no.

Or perhaps Justin’s government could save money and use the same application form as was used in the summer student work program. But, oh, someone will say, don’t be alarmed, the application must be approved by a committee! Yes, and guess who appoints the committee.

Sarcastic, maybe, but what does this so-called bailout do for Canada’s economy? You may see this as a brilliant move, Mister PM, but I hope that reasonable people will see it for what it really is. In the meantime it will cost $16 for every Canadian, $32 out of my wife’s and my budget.

HANS VISSER, TABER