Rebalancing Revenues and Spending for a Fair and Prosperous Manitoba
1.16 MB 44 pages
The last few years have been quite the ride. Navigating the ups and downs of the COVID-19 pandemic, government support, and the cost of living has been a social and economic rollercoaster in many respects, leaving many wondering if things will ever settle down. Despite the push to move on, the effects of COVID-19 are still with us: lost loved ones, long-term disability, delayed surgeries, amplified mental health challenges, homelessness, and students trying to catch up. In Manitoba, the pandemic layered hardship on health and education systems already vulnerable due to provincial government austerity, with the Progressive Conservative (PC) government, at least initially, doubling down on an agenda of cuts in already hard times. Just as things seemed to be getting back to normal, high inflation and interest rate hikes raised serious concerns around affordability, with governments being called on to provide support.
About the authors
Niall (he/him) joined CCPA-Manitoba in February 2022 as the Errol Black Chair in Labour Issues. His research focuses on labour markets, income inequality, public finance, and political economy. Prior to joining the CCPA-MB Niall worked as a research analyst with non-profits and social enterprises across the country, and as an organizer with the Canadian Federation of Students. Niall has a BA in Global Political Economy from the University of Manitoba and an MSc in Geography from McGill University.
David joined the CCPA as its Senior Ottawa Economist in 2011, although he has been a long time contributor as a research associate. Since 2008, he has coordinated the Alternative Federal Budget, which takes a fresh look at the federal budget from a progressive perspective. David has also written on a variety of topics, from child care to income inequality to federal fiscal policy. He is a regular media commentator on national policy issues, often speaking to the CBC, Globe and Mail, Toronto Star and Canadian Press. David received his BA from the University of Windsor and his MA from the University of Guelph, both in Philosophy. Follow David on Bluesky at @davidmaccdn.bsky.social