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Alice Wong in Question Period – Seniors
On October 17, 2011, Alice Wong answered a question during question period about Seniors. The following is a transcript:
Ms. Irene Mathyssen (London—Fanshawe, NDP):
Mr. Speaker, a new report by TD Bank shows that seniors in Canada are accumulating debt at a rate faster than other Canadians. With the rising cost of food, home heating, and day to day expenses, seniors are struggling to make ends meet. Seniors built this country and deserve to retire with dignity. We need pension reform, long-term care, and affordable home care.
When will the government finally take action and ensure a secure retirement for all seniors?
Hon. Alice Wong (Minister of State (Seniors), CPC):
Mr. Speaker, Canada’s seniors have worked hard to build a better country and our government believes they deserve a secure and dignified retirement. That is why we are providing the largest GIS increase in a quarter century to the lowest income seniors who need it the most. Also, since 2006, the government has provided over $2.3 billion in annual tax relief for seniors and pensioners, removed 380,000 seniors from the tax rolls completely, and introduced pension income splitting.
We have also made significant advances in affordable housing–
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