We should invest in society
Times Colonist (Victoria)
April 5, 2009
By: Jim Hackler, Adjunct Professor, University of Victoria

Re: "National daycare a great stimulus option," Janet Bagnall, March 30.

Politicians considering stimulus spending should definitely read Janet Bagnall's comments on daycare. … Instead of saving such antisocial companies, why not follow Bagnall's suggestions and invest in those people, like daycare workers, who make important contributions to society and who will also spend their wages on consumer goods?

In addition to stimulating the economy, providing support for young families, as spelled out in the bill proposed by MP Denise Savoie, would yield meaningful social benefits. In the U.S., public health nurses working with pregnant mothers was one of the most effective programs for preventing crime and other social ills.

Helping these women become better mothers produced major changes 15 years later. Delinquency, smoking, drinking, dangerous sex habits and other antisocial behaviour were reduced significantly -- for both the mothers and the teenage children.

Instead of bailing out socially irresponsible corporations, why not invest in those people and organizations that can improve the quality of our society?