Why has welfare been decreasing in Canada over the years?
The decrease in welfare in Canada over the years can be attributed to several factors. Here's a breakdown of some possible reasons:
1. Shift in government priorities: Changes in political and economic climates have led to shifts in government priorities. Some governments might prioritize reducing welfare spending to allocate more resources to other areas such as infrastructure, healthcare, or education.
2. Strong economy and low unemployment rates: When the economy is performing well and unemployment rates are low, there is less demand for welfare benefits. With more people finding employment, the need for government assistance diminishes, leading to a decrease in welfare recipients.
3. Policy reforms and tightening eligibility criteria: Governments can implement policy reforms that aim to reduce welfare dependency and target assistance towards those most in need. This may involve tightening the eligibility criteria for welfare programs or introducing work requirements to encourage self-sufficiency.
4. Emphasis on other social support programs: Canada has various social support programs, such as the Canada Child Benefit and the Guaranteed Income Supplement for seniors. Governments may choose to allocate resources to these programs instead of traditional welfare, which can lead to a decrease in overall welfare spending.
To delve deeper into the specific reasons for the decrease in welfare in Canada, it would be beneficial to examine academic studies, government reports, and policy documents. These sources can provide comprehensive insights and analysis on the subject matter.