Editor, The Times:
I am writing in response to Mr. Rae's letter of October 18, 2012 entitled "Income inequality must be addressed." Mr. Rae and the Liberal Party would like you to believe that our government doesn't care about income inequality, but the facts tell a different story.
Canada's wealth is tied to our economic performance: as our economy grows and creates jobs it creates prosperity. The best way to fight income inequality isn't to throw taxpayer money at the problem; you fight it by helping create a more prosperous Canada.
By keeping taxes low and encouraging growth we've helped create over 820,000 net new jobs since July 2009, one of the best records in the developed world.
Our government was also responsible for lowering the GST from seven per cent to five per cent. Lowering this tax benefits low-income Canadians disproportionately, allowing them to keep more of their hard earned money.
On the other hand, when Mr. Rae was premier of Ontario, he left the province with a record deficit and an unemployment rate of 9.6 per cent.
Our government will continue to support the creation of jobs and growth for all Canadians.
Cathy McLeod, MP
Kamloops-Thompson-Cariboo