NDP statement on the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty

NDP leader Jagmeet Singh issued the following statement:

“On the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty we think of people and communities around the world struggling with the devastating impacts of scarcity, and we’re reminded that poverty rates have increased annually for three consecutive years in Canada.

For millions of Canadians, things like buying healthy and nutritious food, taking care of their physical and mental health, and even being able to pay their rent and keep a roof over their heads has gotten too expensive to keep up for themselves and for their kids.

Helping our neighbours is a Canadian value. That’s why New Democrats fought to deliver universal pharmacare, the NDP dental care plan, a national school lunch program and more relief—but there’s so much more work to do.

The Liberals and Conservatives let down Canadians when they voted against the Guaranteed Livable Basic Income. The research is clear that direct income supports are a boon for health, justice, and the economy and are the best way to lift people out of poverty. We know what works, but Liberals and Conservatives lack the political will.

The Liberals are failing to take action on corporate greed, letting profits and prices grow out of control. But the Conservatives would make things much worse for those experiencing or on the brink of poverty. By cutting things people count on—like dental care, and free birth control and diabetes medications and even pensions—they would see more people struggle harder just to stay afloat.

New Democrats believe the role of our government is to help people. Canadians are known for our compassion and kindness, and it’s time for our government to use these values to ensure fewer and fewer Canadians go to bed hungry at night.”