Canada’s high government spending and debt accumulation did not produce economic growth during COVID

Global Aftermath: The Economic and Fiscal Effects of COVID in Canada and the World finds that during the pandemic, despite high levels of government spending and debt accumulation, Canada’s economy underperformed compared to most other advanced countries.

Medical wait times cost Canadian patients almost $3.6 billion in lost wages last year

The Private Cost of Public Queues for Medically Necessary Care, 2023 is a new study that finds an estimated 1.2 million Canadian patients waited for medically necessary treatment last year, and each lost an estimated $2,925 (on average) due to lost wages and reduced productivity during working hours. Put differently, long waits for surgery and medical treatment cost Canadians almost $3.6 billion in lost wages and productivity last year.

J.S. Mill’s 160-year-old Harm Principle still relevant to the big debates of today

Mill’s Harm Principle: A Study in the Application of On Liberty is a new essay by Sandra J. Peart—part of the Institute’s Essential Scholar series—that explores in-depth John Stuart Mill’s famous harm principle, its relevance today and how it might impact the debates surrounding gun control, free speech and even mandates during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Commentary and Blog Posts

Report cards should be clear, not confusing

(Appeared in the Globe and Mail) by Michael Zwaagstra

Unfortunately, British Columbia's new curriculum focuses on the process of learning rather than on actual content.

Rising prices at the grocery store—it’s complicated

(Appeared in the Ottawa Sun) by Jock Finlayson

In March, food prices were 9 per cent higher than a year earlier.

Federal government betting billions on uncertain technological breakthroughs

(Appeared in the Calgary Sun) by Kenneth P. Green

Solar power generated only 0.82 per cent of Canada’s electricity, and wind another 5.6 per cent.

P.E.I. government should freeze spending in upcoming budget

(Appeared in the Charlottetown Guardian) by Alex Whalen and Jake Fuss

Each resident of the province is responsible for $15,610 in provincial net debt.

Government debt interest costs rising across Canada

by Jake Fuss

Federal debt interest costs will reach a forecasted $43.9 billion in 2023/24.

Parents deserve more school choice in Ontario

(Appeared in True North) by Michael Zwaagstra

Public schools in the province are pushing critical race theory on students.

Nova Scotia lags behind most other provinces on employment income

(Appeared in the Halifax Chronicle Herald) by Ben Eisen and Alex Whalen

A lower employment rate also has implications for government finances.

Deregulation can help Canada avoid or shorten recessions

(Appeared in the Hub) by Vincent Geloso

Barriers to competition limit the incentives of firms to innovate, cut costs and expand their activities.

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