Canada’s debt problem is not new and neither is the solution. When Stephen Harper was prime minister, Ottawa cut taxes, restrained spending and balanced the books.

His record points to two clear lessons. Taxes can be cut without driving up long-term debt. And deficits can be reduced and eliminated when governments are willing to restrain spending.

JAY GOLDBERG: Stephen Harper proved Canada’s current debt crisis was avoidable  Back to video

With the recent unveiling of Harper’s portrait in Ottawa, his government’s fiscal record is worth revisiting as Canada grapples with a cost-of-living crisis and persistent deficits.

Deliberate approach to fiscal management

During the 2008-09 global financial crisis, the Harper government ran deficits to stabilize the economy, but left office with the budget back in balance. That did not happen by accident. It reflected a deliberate approach to fiscal management rather than a reliance on favourable economic........

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