The head of NB Power says that experiments in deregulation have proven that it just doesn't work. AIMS acting President Charles Cirtwill argues that so-called deregulation schemes in Ontario and California actually created more regulation than they cut. He suggests that true deregulation hasn't been given a fair shot in North America.
Now that Nova Scotia has made peace with the federal government over the Atlantic Accord some pundits are calling for other provinces to negotiate their own deals. However, Charles Cirtwill, AIMS acting president, notes that the federal government was obliged to honour a previous agreement and that provinces without that deal have little leverage.
This edition of The Beacon focuses on two of the most important policy issue in Canada: education and health care. You will also find information on an upcoming AIMS event and an opinion piece requested from AIMS by the Globe & Mail.
While the New Brunswick government makes claims to being the regional energy humb, AIMS acting President Charles Cirtwill suggests the province needs to invest in infrastructure if it hopes to realize the opportunity.
There’s no doubt it’s great news for Newfoundland and Labrador, finally a deal to develop the Hebron Ben Nevis offshore oil field. The project had been put on hold by the operators over a dispute with the province about royalty and ownership issues. However, in this opinion piece, requested by the Globe and Mail, AIMS acting President Charles Cirtwill examines the flaws in equalization revealed by the Hebron deal. Is it a case of having your cake and eating it too? Cirtwill stresses that while it’s an excellent deal for Newfoundland & Labrador, it was based mostly on circumstances and timing and other provinces should not expect similar deals.
In his regular fortnightly column, AIMS acting President Charles Cirtwill examines electricity generation and transmission. He points out the potential for Atlantica is great, but some serious barriers have to be removed first.
Ian Munro, AIMS Director of Research, writes this OpEd for The Guardian that speaks to the government's 4.4 cent reduction in the provincial tax on gasoline. As he explains, the government should take the extra step and eliminate gas price regulation.
The sale of NB Power could be a good thing for NB taxpayers. AIMS acting President Charles Cirtwill says such a sale would not interfere the province's plan for self-sfficiency. And AIMS author Gordon Weil explains that while the government may not be shopping the utility, an unsolicited offer may emerge.
Newfoundland and Labrador would see increased investment if provincial leaders worked to negotiate with business leaders rather than set inflexible terms. This article from the Globe and Mail features analysis from AIMS acting President on factors that discourage business from investing in the province.
From education to health care, AIMS is having significant impact on the issues that matter most to Canadians. This edition of The Beacon explores our latest policy research.