This, from Scheer, is the Murder Hornets of federal economic strategy. It's about 5 different kinds of deadly stupid. First, the CERB is designed to help provide a foundation of basic income to those who have suddenly seen their jobs or income disappear. #cdnpoli
Is there evidence that this express need has vanished? That businesses are now rehiring en masse? That incomes are steady and/or rising? That people are doing fine? No. There is no such evidence. And Scheer doesn't even attempt to provide such evidence. #cdnpoli
Second, the sole argument Scheer does employ is that pre-emptive action is required to ensure that people don't laze off and ignore the opportunity to find work. Again, any evidence that this is happening? No. Absolute dick for evidence. Doesn't even make a token BS arg #cdnpoli
Third, the impact of withdrawing the CERB - particularly before there's any evidence of alternative means of income - will be hardest on those with the lowest incomes. The professional class who is still being paid won't feel that sting but those struggling will #cdnpoli
Fourth, what happens if re-opening triggers new infections and has to be curtailed? We'll have turned off the tap and dismantled the faucet. So we'll have to go back and rebuild/restart again? Does that sound efficient? Wise? Decent? #cdnpoli
Finally, let's be clear - this is scapegoating. It's the 'welfare cheats' meets 'what public health crisis?' of dumb arguments. It's not rooted in the crisis that confronts us. It's an extension of a tired old bias that was never very particularly convincing to start #cdnpoli
I'm not a Conservative. But if I was I would be quick to say, 'Thanks Andrew - you don't speak for us. Your role is now strictly that of caretaker. We realize that sucks for you. But that's life. So care take or take a hike. You lack the authority to invent new policy." #cdnpoli
