Some seniors outraged over being left out of federal plan to dole out $250 cheques
Many Canadian seniors are feeling left out by the latest inflation relief measure introduced by the Liberal government. The government announced that it would be sending $250 cheques to 18.7 million Canadians who worked in 2023 and earned $150,000 or less. This initiative, known as the “Working Canadians Rebate,” is set to be delivered in early spring 2025. Unfortunately, those who were not working in 2023, such as retirees or individuals receiving social assistance, will not qualify for the cheque.
The total cost of distributing these $250 cheques is estimated to be around $4.68 billion, according to a Finance official who spoke to CBC News. One such senior affected by this exclusion is Neil Pierce, a 69-year-old resident of Edmonton. Pierce, who is retired and receives Old Age Security (OAS) and Canada Pension Plan (CPP) payments, expressed his disappointment, calling the cheques a “political handout.” He believes that the government should not be giving money to individuals who were already working and potentially earning high incomes.
Pierce’s sentiments are shared by many other seniors, including Elizabeth Mary Donlevy, a 93-year-old from Woodstock, Ont. Donlevy expressed her frustration at being excluded from the relief measure, stating that it perpetuates discrimination against seniors. She believes that the government is penalizing individuals for being over 65 and implies that seniors should be working to qualify for financial assistance.
Steven Laperrière, the general manager of Regroupement des activistes pour l’inclusion au Québec (RAPLIQ), a Montreal-based advocacy group for people with disabilities, also voiced his concerns about the program. He believes that vulnerable individuals, including those with disabilities, are being further stigmatized by their exclusion from the rebate.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau defended the initiative, stating that it is meant to recognize the hard work of Canadians who are struggling to make ends meet. He emphasized that the government remains committed to supporting vulnerable Canadians through programs like the OAS and the Canada child benefit. Despite criticism from opposition parties and advocacy groups, Trudeau maintains that the Working Canadians Rebate is a way to show appreciation for the efforts of working individuals during challenging times.
In conclusion, while the Working Canadians Rebate may provide much-needed relief to some Canadians, it has also left many seniors feeling abandoned and marginalized. The exclusion of retirees and individuals on fixed incomes has sparked debate and criticism, highlighting the challenges faced by vulnerable populations in accessing financial support. As the government moves forward with the distribution of these cheques, it is essential to consider the diverse needs of all Canadians and ensure that relief measures are inclusive and equitable for everyone.
