With the next federal budget due to be presented on March 29th, the Harper government’s spending priorities are coming under scrutiny. The polling firm Ipsos Reid recently asked Canadians about their own priorities for the budget — and found some interesting results (Mark Kennedy, “Canadians expect bad news in budget,” Ottawa Citizen, 17 March 2012):

70% of Canadians disagree with the statement that ‘social programs, seniors’ pensions, and other benefits in Canada are more generous than we can afford to pay for.’

70% also disagree with the statement ‘we need to keep taxes down, even if it means we have to sacrifice in terms of seniors’ pensions and other social benefits.’

68% of respondents disagree with the statement that ‘given the financial pressures on Canada’s public pension system, it is necessary to increase the retirement age from 65 to 67.’

60% of those polled believe Canada should ‘cut back significantly on its military spending.’

Photo credit: Cheryl DeWolfe