THE SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE

[username]

Hi Duchess, there are all sorts of factors that weigh into the longterm unemployed. Such as, their age can work against them, there may be other social factors, low socioeconomic status can impact on their prospects. I guess the reason your government is extending unemployment benefits is that they have ascertained that there is a need within your community and people are desperate. Especially with the economic downturn it has impacted people on all levels of your society. There should be programs supporting people trying to get them back to work, but don't just heartlessly throw them out on the street. Otherwise it just comes accross as uniformed rightwing bigotry.

And then there are just lazy fuckers that are milking the system for all its worth.

I tend to be somewhat liberal but I'm also a realist. Our unemployment and welfare systems are wildly abused. I'm all for a hand-up (where it's due) but not perpetual handouts. The problem is sorting out those that actually need help versus those that are just lazy fucks.

I tend to agree with Maggot though. Two years is long enough for most people to find some employment (and I don't care if they have to work at McDonalds to make ends meet). There ought to be a way to dump the able-bodied people out of the system.