- What was the Canada Assistance Plan? When did it begin? How did
it help build the social safety net in Newfoundland, and in the other
provinces of Canada?
- What is a
"universal" social program? Can you
think of one that exists today? Do you think universal social programs
are a good thing?
- The woman quoted at the end of the essay says
"... some
nights I feel like giving it all up." Why do you think she
feels this way?
Projects
Read over the words of the woman quoted at the end of the essay. What
problems does she have that the social welfare system does not deal
with? What programs or services could improve her life? Discuss and
come up with a plan for her.
Make a list of the services and programs that make up the social safety
net. Make another list of things you think should be included in it
to make it stronger.
With your instructor, do some research into one of the following:
—recent changes to Employment Insurance, or
—the Canada Health and Social Transfer.
How does the change you have researched affect the social safety net?
Do you think the change is a good or bad thing? Discuss. |