On International Day for Eradication of Poverty let’s actually take action to eradicate poverty

October 17, 2022

QUEEN'S PARK — Ontario Greens Leader and MPP for Guelph, Mike Schreiner, marked the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, joined by the ODSP Action Coalition, by renewing his demand for the Ford government to end legislated poverty by immediately doubling social assistance rates.

“Thousands of people in Ontario are living 30 per cent below the official poverty line because the Ford government refuses to increase ODSP rates to a liveable level.

When MPPs return to the legislature next week, Ontario Greens will be re-tabling a motion calling on the government to immediately double ODSP rates.

Inflation is through the roof and the government’s response is to offer a paltry increase of 5 per cent. It’s insulting.

In 1998, a person with disabilities could receive up to $930 a month. Twenty-four years later, in 2020, that amount had gone up by just $239. A 5 per cent increase doesn’t keep up with the current rate of inflation and will force people to live on less than they would have received in 1998.

It’s wrong that people with disabilities are forced to choose between paying rent or buying food.

These inhumane conditions have to end now. Ontario is better than this.

Let’s take action on this International Day for the Eradication of Poverty and put life back in the hands of ODSP recipients.”

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