How Canada’s ‘haves’ get had
Kevin Libin references James Buchanan talk with AIMS - federal transfers were a good idea, but have gone bad due to the incentive structures within politics.
Editorial: Time to overhaul equalization
As the Ontario Chamber of Commerce joins Alberta in pushing for equalization reform, fellow critics wonder if Ottawa will finally listen to their concerns.
Province warned not to follow N.S. example
As New Brunswick pursues university funding agreement, AIMS President Charles Cirtwill warns not to follow Nova Scotia example.
Rural N.B. enjoys power surge
As New Brunswick population moves from country to cities, rural voters have stronger voice than urban voters in the NB Legislature. This trend is not unique to the province.
Amalgamation: no quick fix
In light of recent discussions about whether Rothesay and Quispamsis should amalgamate into a city, the pros and cons of amalgamation are discussed.
Ontario Chamber of Commerce calls for more sense within equalization
The Ontario Chamber of Commerce released a report suggesting Canada's productivity is being jeopardized by transfer payments between provinces. AIMS refers to equalization and transfer payments as 'the help that hurts.'
Highway tolls unwanted tax, say industries
As the New Brunswick government considers adding highway tolls, AIMS President Charles Cirtwill explains that such an act can be an effective value-added tax, but this is not the case in New Brunswick.
Auditor questions industry funding program
New Brunswick's auditor general says Business New Brunswick should set targets and make public whether it is getting value for money from The Financial Assistance to Industry Program. AIMS President Charles Cirtwill says the auditor general's recommendations won't prevent Business New Brunswick from making bad funding decisions, and suggests not funding companies at all, or providing payroll rebates once jobs are created.
Exclusive: Former deputy minister says province top-heavy with bureaucrats
AIMS numbers reveal bloated civil service in New Brunswick compared to other provinces
Required Reading for Friday, Ferbuary 4th
Straight Talk! - Which university would you like to close?