A universal basic income is an income unconditionally granted to all on an individual basis, without means testing or work requirement. It is a form of minimum income guarantee that differs from those that now exist in what I think are three very important ways:
- it is being paid to individuals rather than households;
- it is paid irrespective of any income from other sources;
- it is paid without requiring the performance of any work or the willingness to accept a job if offered.
Ensure that no person in this country is below a minimum income level. Every single citizen of this country deserves a measure of dignity.
Reasons To Implement UBI
No single policy measure is a cure all for all social or economic ills but I believe a reasonable Basic Income for all citizens of Barbados will significantly improve our nation in the following ways:
- Ensure that no person in this country is below a minimum income level. Every single citizen of this country deserves a measure of dignity.
- Give the opportunity to single parent mothers and fathers of this country to take full advantage of educational opportunities without having to worry about having absolutely no income coming in if they leave work for school.
- Increased labour flexibility.
- In an ever more increasingly automated world due to Technology, jobs will be lost that will not be replaced by new ones. Is our policy response as a nation to say tough luck to those unlucky enough to face this situation?
- Reductions in other government transfers.
- Increased mental well-being from knowing that you have a minimum income level guaranteed by the government.
- One of the common criticisms of Universal Basic Income is that it will decrease the amount of persons wanting to work however this is not true. Most studies have shown no noticeable decline in overall workforce participation.
- Increased worker productivity for organisations and businesses due to more persons being in jobs that they actually enjoy doing.
I strongly believe we can get this implemented and offer a better future to all of our Bajan citizens . Please sign this petition and share with your family, friends & colleagues.
Josiah Kirton 