Vancouver planner Eric Doherty’s proposal for a border toll is sensible and responsible.
While nobody enjoys paying for something that used to be free, the truth is that cross-border purchases are hurting our Canadian economy.
Gas, and many other commodities, are indeed cheaper in the U.S. One reason is that the American economy provides far less public service to its citizens; services such as public health care, education, transportation and much, much more. This results in low taxes and cheaper prices.
However, it has also resulted in a less equal and less stable economy than ours.
Some letter writers see the border toll as an issue of freedom. I look at it as an issue of fairness.
Travel wherever you want, but don’t expect to be subsidized. If you enjoy the benefits of Canadian society, then accept the responsibility of paying your share of the cost.
Pat Truelove