Thinking ahead

I had tea today with my fellow choir member, Monica, before we went to a debate on the Brexit vote, where four economists spelled out what a disaster it would be for Northern Ireland, the only place in the United Kingdom that shares a border with an EU country. One contrary opinion came from a PwC economist, who said, granted the agricultural sector gets a LOT of subsidies from the EU (mostly in the form of payments to leave land fallow), but that distorts Northern Ireland’s economy and reduces productivity. He said it would be painful to get off subsidies, but also it would help the economy mature.

One of the reasons the pro-Brexit people want out is that the UK contributes more to Brussels than it gets back (unlike NI). One economist said that’s a good thing--it’s an indicator of a strong economy. If you’re a net recipient, that doesn’t bode well. The Danske Bank economist said that while pro-Brexit people point to burdensome regulations, she herself prefers to see proper regulation of meat producers, child care centres, factory waste, etc. The EU has helped NI modernise in this respect.

Monica and her husband are near retirement age. They designed and built a new home that allows them to age in place. It’s wheelchair friendly, it has an elevator and the loveliest kitchen I’ve ever seen. It must be great fun to design your home to your exact needs and preferences.
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