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Originally Posted by Slava
I didn't realise that Peter Lougheed was on board with this version as well? 
I find it hilarious that all of the CPC supporters here immediately mention this in relation to the GST as well...a tax that your party brought in to begin with.
Maybe if the debate was focused on solutions instead of just taking pot shots at the policy put forth here we would be getting somewhere. |
I agree with that, however Dion's "solution" is a carbon reduction plan in name only, its an economic transfer device to his stronger voting areas then a plan that will actually do anything to reduce emissions, unless the slowing down of the economy is part of a brilliant insidious plan.
Unfortunately I don't believe that there can even be a proper global plan put into place because each country has different priorities and goals, and a global plan that omits some countries from it while pounding other countries is stupid.
At some point something has to be done, but you can't believe that a country that puts a plan into place that effects its economic standing and then hopes to become the voice of environmental causes will create a forward burst that makes other countries sit up and take notice. What will really happen is that the other countries will step in to take advantage of the economic bonus that suddenly appears. IE Canada stops manufacturing certain products because the government taxes the companies doing it, and China steps in increases its carbon footprint and reaps the reward in terms of money.
Call me a cynic, but realistically to me the best plan is to take part of the budget surpluses that we have on a national scale and create corporate tax breaks for companies that clean up thier processes. Don't put a tax in place that going to increase the price of consumer goods, or essentials like fuels or electricity, because those taxes inevitably attack and effect the lower and middle class more then the upper class.
Don't punish people for consumerism, since consumerism is good for the economy, creates jobs, allows us to export more.
Simple as that, for every company that puts a plan into place to reduce their carbon foot print significantly, the government cuts them a check to cover 50% of the cost.
For every person that buys a bike, then the government gives them a $100.00 bonus. For every person that reduces their in home heating bill, they get a rebate from the government.
A pat on the head is superior to a kick in the ass.
But why in the hell should we do anything that boosts the Chinese or Indian economy for example at the cost of our own when those governments continue to be a significant contributor to the problem and have no limits under international treaties.