Liberal leadership contender Karina Gould promises EI reforms, universal basic income as PM
Federal Liberal leadership candidate Karina Gould has outlined her plans to revamp Canada’s employment insurance system and introduce a universal basic income program if she is elected as the next prime minister. Gould expressed her concerns about the current EI program, stating that it is not inclusive enough and fails to support seasonal and contract workers adequately.
During a campaign stop in Fredericton, Gould emphasized the need to modernize the EI regime within a year of taking office. She also pledged to enhance support for vulnerable seniors and individuals with disabilities while laying the groundwork for a universal basic income initiative. Gould believes that these reforms are necessary to address the shortcomings of the existing social safety net and adapt to the changing nature of work in the 21st century.
The looming threat of U.S. tariffs has added urgency to Gould’s proposals, as she warned of potential job losses and economic instability if the tariffs are imposed. She argued that a robust EI system and a basic income program could mitigate the need for emergency relief measures in the event of a downturn, providing a safety net for Canadians facing financial hardship.
Geranda Notten, a poverty and social policy expert at the University of Ottawa, supported Gould’s calls for expanding EI eligibility to accommodate the evolving labor market. However, Notten cautioned that such reforms would likely require increased premiums or taxes to fund the expanded benefits, posing a potential challenge for policymakers and voters alike.
The introduction of a universal basic income program presents a similar dilemma, as it would necessitate higher taxes or the elimination of certain tax credits to finance the initiative. While the program could help lift individuals out of poverty, it would come at a cost to other taxpayers, underscoring the need for careful consideration and public debate on the issue.
As the Liberal party prepares to select a new leader ahead of the upcoming federal election, Gould’s proposals have sparked discussions about the future of social welfare in Canada. Whether her vision for a more inclusive and equitable social safety net resonates with voters remains to be seen, but Gould’s ambitious agenda has certainly captured the attention of Canadians across the country.
