Over the weekend, while millions of Canadians are still without work, the federal Liberals chose to cut the amount of Canada Recovery Benefit (CRB) people receive by $800, according to a federal NDP media release.
The release states that the NDP know Canadians still need help to make ends meet; that’s why coastal MPs are urging the government to reverse these cuts.
“Although things are starting to reopen and there is a light at the end of the tunnel, this pandemic is not over,” stated North Island-Powell River MP Rachel Blaney. “Certain industries will take longer to pick up again, and some are still waiting to reopen. Millions of people who needed this support six months ago will still need it for a few more months.”
The release stated that throughout the pandemic, Justin Trudeau had to be forced by the NDP to provide people with any real support, and when the Liberals wanted people to survive on $1,000 a month during pandemic lockdowns, NDP MPs pushed back and succeeded in doubling help for struggling families. Now, the government has cut the CRB by $800 a month knowing full well this will hurt families struggling to make ends meet, according to the release.
New Democrat MPs made it clear to the Liberals that they would sit through the summer and help them pass what legislation is needed to make sure families don’t suffer with an $800 cut to their income, the release stated. Instead, Trudeau chose to adjourn at the end of June and proceed with the cut.
Under the government’s rules, recipients will receive $600 every two weeks ($540 with taxes withheld). According to the government of Canada website, the Canada Recovery Benefit gives income support to employed and self-employed individuals who are directly affected by COVID-19 and are not entitled to employment insurance (EI) benefits. The CRB is administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
