Unequal Wealth Distribution

One of several questions from Jesse Bauman, editor of The Community Edition:

Wealth is very unequally distributed in Canada. According to Statistics Canada, the average net worth of the top 20 per cent of families (sorted by income group) rose by an average of 80 per cent between 1999 and 2012. The bottom 20 per cent experienced a 38 per cent increase. Do you think this is a problem? And if so, what would you do about it?

Wealth distribution and income inequality are both problems in Canada, especially for those who have neither sufficient wealth nor income. The Green Party will implement a Guaranteed Livable Income so that every Canadian has the means to survive without requiring welfare or food banks. A person with food security is healthier and more productive, so that there is a reduced burden on health care services and other support services. At the other end of the spectrum there are people with large incomes who pay disproportionally low taxes. The Green Party would remove many of the boutique tax credits and close tax loopholes so that high income earners pay a fair share of tax. Between the reduced costs of social services and the increased tax revenues the GLI is an affordable way to reduce income inequality for all Canadians.

I’m looking forward to seeing the responses from all the candidates in
The Community Edition.