August 6th 2020 - Family - The Line

Why the tepid response to the crisis of childcare?

Why the tepid response to the crisis of childcare?

I am growing increasingly sympathetic to the idea that the tepid response of governments to the pending pandemic crisis in childcare and schooling goes beyond the weakness of any particular government and is due to something bigger. Though most conservatives…

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June 30th 2020 - Economics - First Policy Response

Public confidence and the COVID-19 economy

Public confidence and the COVID-19 economy

If you open it, will they come? Most of Canada is now in various phases of reopening and the question many businesses will be asking is not, “Can I open?” but rather, “Should I open?” This won’t be an easy…

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June 24th 2020 - Family - CD Howe Institute

Thoughts on Forestalling the Coming Childcare Crisis

Thoughts on Forestalling the Coming Childcare Crisis

As the economy continues to re-open, albeit differently across jurisdictions and over time, many sectors are going to struggle with necessary and ongoing rules on physical distancing and disinfecting. These new constraints, while essential, will have a particularly difficult impact…

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June 11th 2020 - Economics - First Policy Response

Supply-side shocks of COVID-19 could linger for years

Supply-side shocks of COVID-19 could linger for years

It’s now a trope to point out that the COVID-19 pandemic is unprecedented. Populations around the world responded to the threat of COVID-19 by changing their behaviour and governments moved in to reinforce those behaviours with varying levels of “stay…

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May 29th 2020 - Economics - CD Howe Institute

Supply-side Shocks and the COVID Economic Recovery

Supply-side Shocks and the COVID Economic Recovery

How should governments help the economy emerge from the COVID recession? Conventional responses are not designed for this – no amount of monetary or broad-based fiscal stimulus will open up middle seats on planes, eliminate childcare constraints on primary caregivers…

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