In my opinion, because of the way the fund is managed at present, it is a disguised tax levied from workers and employers. The government does not contribute a penny to it. As well, eligibility for employment insurance benefits is being further restricted and funds reserved for training or the Consolidated Revenue Fund are being diverted. I find it somewhat improper for the employment insurance fund to be used in that way. Risk coverage is proposed so that people have access to insurance if they lose their jobs. But the scheme has been so distorted that at present people are not able to use it. We are paying what I call a disguised tax, which is used for other things.
On February 26th, 2009. See this statement in context.