Many seniors in Canada have been shocked to learn their guaranteed income supplement (GIS) has been partially or completely cut after receiving CERB or CRB, according to North Island-Powell River MP Rachel Blaney.
A media release from the federal New Democratic Party stated that seniors, who have been hard hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, are now struggling to pay their bills and put food on the table because of this undisclosed rule by the Liberal government. New Democrats are fighting to make sure seniors get the support they need, according to the release.
“My office has heard from many seniors who weren’t expecting to lose this monthly payment and don’t know how they are going to get by,” stated Blaney. “The Liberal government needs to urgently address this issue so seniors are not penalized for receiving financial supports they needed and qualified for.”
The release stated that for more than a year, New Democrats have been fighting so all seniors receive additional financial support during the pandemic, but the government continues to refuse to help.
“While the Liberals rushed to give money to the richest corporations without any strings attached, they cut help for seniors who are waiting to work again in provinces still under stay-at-home orders and lockdowns.”
On August 3, the NDP’s critic for employment, workforce and disability inclusion, Daniel Blaikie, asked the government to find an urgent solution to this problem. He has yet to receive a response, according to the release.
