The Drummond Report was released today and not unlike the Paul Ryan plan in the USA, it calls for significant cuts to programs across the board. The CBC reported on it here: Drummond report on Ontario calls for cutbacks.
There does not appear to be the same degree of polemics associated with the Drummond Report presumably because it was generated by an independent consultant not unlike the Simpson-Bowles commission in the USA. Unlike Simpson-Bowles, however, the Drummond Report reads more like a libertarian screed and I cannot help but see a very strong conservative, libertarian ideology animating the findings.
While there is no doubt the Western global economy is facing severe challenges, I do not think Draconian measures need to be introduced. Such measures will only serve to destabilize the public. Better, to think long term over the next 10 - 20 years with a combination of cuts and taxation increases. As it is, Drummond's proposal seeks a balanced budget by 2017 which I do not think is necessary to ensure financial stability. As long as debt is being paid and spending is controlled, Ontario should be able to grow and maintain.
Health care is a major expense and with an aging population, strategies are going to have to be developed to address home care, increase in prescription drugs and other medical procedures. I completely agree with some of the health care strategic directions and a move away from hospital based to community care.
There does not appear to be the same degree of polemics associated with the Drummond Report presumably because it was generated by an independent consultant not unlike the Simpson-Bowles commission in the USA. Unlike Simpson-Bowles, however, the Drummond Report reads more like a libertarian screed and I cannot help but see a very strong conservative, libertarian ideology animating the findings.
While there is no doubt the Western global economy is facing severe challenges, I do not think Draconian measures need to be introduced. Such measures will only serve to destabilize the public. Better, to think long term over the next 10 - 20 years with a combination of cuts and taxation increases. As it is, Drummond's proposal seeks a balanced budget by 2017 which I do not think is necessary to ensure financial stability. As long as debt is being paid and spending is controlled, Ontario should be able to grow and maintain.
Health care is a major expense and with an aging population, strategies are going to have to be developed to address home care, increase in prescription drugs and other medical procedures. I completely agree with some of the health care strategic directions and a move away from hospital based to community care.
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