A Big Idea
Eliminating Poverty in Canada
by Alan Redway

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Can the complex issue of poverty actually be addressed in Canada? Author Alan Redway believes the answer is yes—if it is tackled at a federal level—and explores how this can be achieved with the introduction of a Universal Basic Income in our country. A comprehensive examination of exactly what a Universal Basic Income is, why it is necessary, and what its benefits are, A Big Idea: Eliminating Poverty in Canada also includes a historical overview of social benefits in Canada and addresses possible barriers to the implementation of this proposed universal benefit. In a time when 14% of Canadians can’t afford to pay going-market rents to keep a roof over their heads and one in eight Canadian household is food insecure, an immediate response to poverty in this country is more important than ever. This is the book that all caring Canadian citizens—and politicians—need to read right now.

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Alan Redway (LL.B, BComm) has had a fulfilling career as a lawyer, Mayor of the Borough of East York, and a Progressive Conservative Member of the House of Commons. He held the latter position for almost ten years, and his responsibilities included serving as the Minister of State (Housing). Always interested in eliminating poverty, Redway served for a number of years as the Chair of Toronto’s Daily Bread Food Bank and also volunteered at both the Eastminster and St. Brigid’s Out of the Cold programs in Toronto. A firm believer that the introduction of a universal basic income is feasible and can eliminate poverty in Canada, Redway urges action to “get it over the goal line” and for “the federal government and the Bank of Canada to first agree that eliminating poverty in Canada is a priority and then work together in a cooperative effort to see it through.” Redway is also the author of Governing Toronto: Bringing back the city that worked and East York 1924-1997: Toronto’s Garden of Eden.

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Contributors

Author

Alan Redway