Welfare, the perpetual handout

[William H. Belway]

StatsCan has released information that shows that 54% of welfare
recipients have been on welfare for OVER TWO YEARS, and that 78% over 7
months-clearly reform is needed. Given that a sizable number had
post-secondary education, clearly there is a need for time limits on
welfare-18 months out of a 5 year period, and having welfare benefits
eliminated if an applicant turns down a job. This type of abuse [although
it doesn't qualify as abuse-if you suspect welfare abuse, Candace, call
1-800-394-STOP or 1-800-267-TIPS] has been going on for far too long. I
would encourage everyone to contact local Ottawa area MPP's Gary Guzzo and
John Baird as well as Mike Harris' office, as welfare is not meant to be a
retirement plan, Suzanne. Now I know you were planning on living off
welfare for the rest of your life at the height o f the Rae Daze, but that
just isn't going to happen.

54% have been on welfare for two years or longer-premiers Filmon, Harris,
Klein, and believe it or not, Clark in British Columbia need to be
petitioned to put time limits on welfare.