Is Public Debt Reduction Worthwhile?

This paper examines whether reducing Canada’s federal debt is a worthwhile policy objective, in light of economists’ advice and public opinion favouring debt reduction. As well, the federal government has projected a gradual decrease in its debt-to-GDP ratio over the next 30 years. Reducing the publ...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Author: Bev Dahlby
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: University of Calgary 2025-02-01
Series:The School of Public Policy Publications
Online Access:https://www.policyschool.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/FP-8-PubDebt-Final.pdf
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Summary:This paper examines whether reducing Canada’s federal debt is a worthwhile policy objective, in light of economists’ advice and public opinion favouring debt reduction. As well, the federal government has projected a gradual decrease in its debt-to-GDP ratio over the next 30 years. Reducing the public debt means that governments have to adopt a policy of fiscal austerity. This paper focuses on the trade-offs of fiscal austerity — short-term sacrifices for long-term benefits.
ISSN:2560-8312
2560-8320