John Robson: How Can Austerity Be Achieved When Lavish Spending Prevails?

Dental instruments are shown in Oakville, Ont., in a file photo. The federal government recently expanded the dental care program. The Canadian Press/Staff

Commentary

It is tempting to dismiss the federal government’s pledge of an austere budget after over half a century of similar rhetoric and because they’ve also promised massive spending increases. But as always, it’s important to see this idea from the inside. Then you can dismiss it … until you get the bill.