April 28, 2021

NDP: Liberal government must work to end poverty in Canada

OTTAWA – On Wednesday, NDP MP Leah Gazan (Winnipeg Centre) asked all Members of Parliament in the House of Commons to support a guaranteed livable basic income in Canada. Thousands of individuals across the country, including advocacy groups, are calling for the government to work to end poverty.

“This past year has only intensified the need for the federal government to implement a guaranteed livable basic income. Many people in our country are living paycheque to paycheque, working multiple jobs and struggling to get by,” said Gazan. “CERB has shown us that it is possible to support people in this way. We need to continue with these types of measures permanently to end poverty in Canada.”

The Parliamentary Budget Officer (PBO) released a report earlier this year highlighting the benefits of implementing an income guarantee that could cut poverty rates in Canada in half, with net zero cost. Despite this, the Prime Minister says he sees no path for basic income.

“The Liberals spend a lot of money on their ultra-wealthy allies, including $18 billion in the past year on subsidies for big oil and gas. Why can’t they spend a portion of this amount to ensure the dignity, security, and human rights of people?”

The motion did not receive unanimous consent in the House on Wednesday afternoon.

New Democrats will continue to fight for all Canadians to make sure they get the help they need, when they need it.

Contact:

Claire Johnston

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