Suggestion that some cases of poverty are self-inflicted met with disapproval

An elderly woman’s suggestion today that while some cases of poverty are genuine, other can be self-inflicted prompted disapproval from participants at a debate on the definition of poverty held today at the University. The woman, who was among the audience, noted that a distinction should be made between the so-called working poor (people in employment who still struggled to make ends meet) and others who lived beyond their means. “You cannot group cases which are the result of illness, low income, and expensive housing in the same basket as those whose situation is self-inflicted like gamblers. Let us not underestimate those people who waste their money on bingo, lotto, and manicure like nail art,” she said. Her remarks prompted various comments of disapproval from those present including Caritas director Leonid McKay.  “It is very unjust to say that some deserve to be poor more than others,” Mr McKay said. “Such argument is very dangerous for policy makers. The idea that poverty is self-inflicted stems from a very conservative approach,” he added. “I subscribe to the view that poverty is the result of policies, an unjust economic system and unfair political decisions,” he...