Positive Contributions of the Conservative Party in Canada

The question often arises, what has the Conservative Party (referred to as Tories) done positively for Canada? This article delves into some of the notable achievements and policies that have had a tangible impact on the country and its citizens.

Key Achievements

The Conservative government under Prime Minister Stephen Harper made several significant geopolitical and policy moves. Firstly, they honored the referendum results in 2016, leading to the United Kingdom's exit from the European Union (Brexit), a decision that had far-reaching implications for the country's sovereignty and economy.

Another notable achievement was the removal of Yvette Cooper from her position as Home Secretary. This move was seen as a positive step to secure the country's safety and security infrastructure.

Balancing the Budget and Campaign Promises

One of the criticisms often leveled against the Conservative Party is that they do not observe campaign promises. However, when one compares the performance of the Conservatives, Liberals, and other political parties, it becomes evident that the Conservatives have succeeded in balancing budgets and delivering on their campaign pledges. For example, despite breaking or partially breaking 24% of their promises, this is far more credible than the Liberals, who broke or partially broke 50% of theirs.

Healthcare Spending and Economic Policies

The Conservatives recognized the importance of healthcare and dedicated significant resources to it. Over a decade, healthcare spending increased by 6% annually, resulting in a 70% increase in total healthcare spending compared to any other party. This commitment has paid off, especially during the Great Recession when Canada stood out as the only OECD country that managed to reduce child poverty rates.

Addressing Inequality and Income Disparity

Income inequality is a significant issue, particularly concerning the top 1% of earners. Under the Conservative government, the top 1% of Canadians earned 8% of the country's income during Mulroney's tenure, increasing to 13% during Chrétien's tenure and 14% under Martin's. However, under Harper's leadership, this figure fell to 10%. This shift indicates a positive trend towards income equality, although more progress is needed.

Despite some critics arguing that income growth was stagnant, StatCan data shows differently. Far from stagnancy, statutory retirement age increases and year-on-year wage growth were recorded during Harper's term, with inflation-adjusted wages showing a 1% increase since 1977 under Harper's leadership. This contrast with the United States, where wage growth was lower and inflation-adjusted wages fell under Obama.

Ethical and Consistent Governance

A consistent hallmark of the Conservative government has been its commitment to acting in the best interest of all Canadians, not just special interest groups. This approach contrasts with the Liberal and NDP parties, which often prioritize niche interests over broader national needs.

The Conservatives have also been instrumental in addressing the mess left by their predecessors. Upon assuming office, they often found themselves in a position to right the wrongs and set a more stable trajectory for the country. This has created a cycle where the Liberals and NDP seek to offer appealing but unsustainable promises that ultimately lead to a return to a dysfunctional governance model.

In conclusion, while there are always areas for improvement, the Conservative Party of Canada has made significant strides in balancing the budget, improving healthcare spending, and addressing economic inequalities. These achievements reflect a commitment to common sense, good judgment, and a genuine dedication to serving the nation as a whole, moving beyond party allegiance.