Talking Points: What to say when a Politician Comes Looking for Your Vote 

What is a Basic Income? 

A Basic Income would ensure all people have enough money to meet the necessities of life, including food, clothing, shelter, and other resources that facilitate social engagement, such as access to travel and a means of communication.   

Why do we need a Basic Income? 

1.     Many people are living in poverty or are just a step away from poverty. Poverty causes toxic stress which in turn causes social, emotional, and physical harm. People in poverty often experience food insecurity and live in inadequate housing and dangerous environments. The current social assistance system is insufficient, punitive and demoralizing. A Basic Income would drastically reduce poverty and allow people to participate as full citizens in society, with dignity and security. 

2.     Employment is becoming increasingly precarious. Full-time, permanent employment opportunities are declining. A Basic Income would provide a much-needed safety net when a person is between jobs. A Basic Income would value and support all work: entrepreneurial endeavours, creative activities, caring for family and friends, volunteering, etc... 

3.     Rural communities are suffering. Work is hard to find and infrastructure is crumbling. A Basic Income would infuse much need revenue into these communities.  

4.     Income disparity is at an all time high and growing. A small number of people control the great majority of wealth while many others suffer. 

What does the research say? 

1.     Pilot studies in countries as varied as Canada, Finland, and India show that, with a Basic Income, Poverty is dramatically reduced, paid work levels remain similar, people are able to make choices, health and well-being improves, hospital visits decline, trust in government goes up. 

2.     In Canada, people 65 and over receive Old Age Security and a Guaranteed Income Supplement which is a form of Basic Income. After their implementation, poverty levels in seniors dropped dramatically and is now at levels below any other age group, food security and health improved. 

Is a Basic Income all we need? 

Absolutely not! A Basic Income must be part of a comprehensive social safety net. 

Is a Basic Income affordable in Canada? 

Yes, but Provinces and Territories cannot do it alone. The Parliamentary Budget Office has costed a Basic Income. Studies using this estimate have shown that a Basic Income in Canada can be funded in a revenue neutral way through reallocation of selected federal tax credits, making the system more equitable and transferring benefits to those most in need. 

What can a politician do? 

1.     Make Basic Income a part of your party’s platform. 

2.     Help develop the road map to a Basic Income. 

3.     Urge all levels of government and all parties to work together to implement a Basic Income.