QUESTION PERIOD — Employment and Social Development
Canada Disability Benefit
December 2, 2021
Honourable senators, my question is for the Government Representative in the Senate. In light of the statements by Senators Bernard and Petitclerc earlier today, this seems an appropriate question to ask today. Bill C-35, the Canada disability benefit act, was tabled in the other place on June 22, 2021. Admittedly, this was far too late for it to be considered and passed before the election arrived, but it was certainly a signal to the disability community of our government’s commitment. The bill states, “. . . to reduce poverty and to support the financial security of persons with disabilities by establishing the Canada disability benefit . . . .”
The preamble sets out all the very good reasons why this is a critically important piece of legislation for people with disabilities and their families. Even some Government of Canada websites note the fact that as many as 6 million Canadians over the age of 15 suffer from a disability and that they are far more likely to live in poverty due to social and economic exclusion. Yet there was no reference in the Throne Speech to our government’s intentions in relation to this legislation and, with ministers’ mandates not yet public, there is no assurance that this continues to be a government priority.
Can you confirm that, having raised the expectations of 6 million Canadians and their families, a commitment to this legislation remains a government priority?
The short answer is “yes,” senator. Thank you for the question. Since 2015 the government has taken major steps toward building a disability-inclusive Canada. Budget 2021 built upon this by putting “Nothing Without Us” into action, investing in accessible communities, training and job creation, investing in students with disabilities and providing funds for inclusive child care. Moving forward, the government is committed to reintroducing the Canada disability benefit bill which will create a direct monthly payment for low-income Canadians with disabilities.
The government is committed to continuing to engage with Canadians with disabilities as it moves forward with the Disability Inclusion Action Plan, including modernizing its approach to disability across government and delivering an employment strategy for Canadians with disabilities.
When might we see the legislation, Senator Gold?
I don’t know when the legislation will be introduced. As soon as I know, I will inform this chamber.
