In reference to the right wing Fraser Institute’s proposal based on the Alaskan model of giving dividends to each Albertan from the Heritage Fund, this would just create another financial silo with the wealthy receiving dividends they don’t need and babies and children receiving equal amounts to tax paying citizens.
The Fraser Institute failed to do their homework as stated by Associated Press that the political cost of the Alaskan benefit is both a blessing and a curse. Alaska has no state or personal tax and the legislature is squabbling about how money should be used to fund education, healthcare and other infrastructure to the point of almost facing partial government shutdowns. Alaska struggles to attract new workers and young people are leaving since they see no opportunities for themselves.
It appears Norway’s fund proceeds are used for the public good, not dividends. Alberta’s Heritage Fund should be used only for the public good.
Lin Gackle
Sunset Point
Cochrane, AB
