This was sent today to all BC newspapers. 

-----------------------------------

Dear Editor:

We tentatively applaud the Campbell governments' attempts at making amends
with the much battered public service employees, and thank the unions for
taking a stand to ensure fair compensation for all workers.

However, where is the voice for the children, women, disabled, elderly and
disadvantaged who are living in abject poverty within this wealthy province?

In this boom of high employment, the BC Government conveniently overlooks
that the vast majority of new jobs are minimum wage. This means people
fortunate enough to move from social assistance to 'gainful' employment
STILL remain below the poverty line. So much for reducing the gap between
the rich and the poor!

Welfare rates have not increased in years. They have, in fact, declined
drastically while the cost of living rises steadily. New qualifications for
eligibility are complicated, disrespectful, impute blame, embarrass and
shame, and in some cases are impossible to navigate without assistance. 
 
Communities around the province are scrambling to find alternatives to the
increasing poverty, diminished health care, unattainable housing, sprawl and
its attendant transportation problems, and decreased services for our most
vulnerable citizens. Our tax dollars, provided through the province, used to
cover these basics...  Not any more!  
 
Decisions made at the top level of governments are the most to blame for the
existence and depth of poverty in this province and country. Yet poverty is
expected, by those very same policy-makers, to be treated locally. What
crazy logic is that? And how convenient! Those creating the problem are not
required to correct it.

There is enough in the millions of surplus dollars the Liberal Government
brags about to meet the needs of all British Columbians and it is time we
ALL voiced our outrage on behalf of those living on the edge. It is time to
implement a guaranteed annual income for all. 

Daphne Moldowin and Chrystal Ocean, 
WISE, Duncan BC.

- 30 -

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