The following letter was sent to Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland

Firstly, I must congratulate you on providing such strong leadership with reference to the Ukrainian war. Wonderful. But my email is not about that.

In Canada (and many other countries) we find ourselves living amongst a sea of “We are Hiring” signs, everywhere. The obvious comment on this is we must stop the COVID giveaway programs that still disincentivize people to return to work or get a first-time job.

However, my key suggestion was formulated by my partner (Sylvie) and is as follows:

For a period of, say, two to three years the government of Canada should allow seniors to earn up to maybe $10,000 per year without affecting other government programs, such as OAS clawbacks, the guaranteed income supplement, etc.

This would cost the exchequer nothing because they pay these allowances now.

It would create consumption (the seniors will spend the money) and produce tax incomes (employment and HST, etc.) while assisting employers with the labour shortage.

For seniors it could help fill their lives productively and provide a sense of worth.

Please take the suggestion seriously. Sylvie and I believe this could boost our economy in a big way while enhancing the lifestyles and sense of value for seniors.

Richard West

NOTL