If we are able to conclude that Canada is not better off now than it was in the 1970's, in order to determine the reasons, we have to analyze what has changed in Canada and the world since that time.  So, we have to examine such things as immigration levels (including ages and contributing skills), free trade agreements and technology as starting points, not to mention the federal governments who influenced these things. 

For decades Canadians have been told over and over again that we have to have higher immigration levels in order to offset and sustain an aging population.  Really!  So, someone please tell me how a lottery draw so 10,000 immigrants can bring in their parents and grandparents will help with that equation?  Well, it doesn't.