NDP and Bloc Push Liberals to Expand $250 Rebate to Retirees and Vulnerable Groups
Jagmeet Singh and Yves-François Blanchet criticize the exclusion of seniors, students, and people with disabilities from the federal affordability plan.
- Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced a $6.28-billion affordability plan, including $250 rebate cheques for working Canadians earning up to $150,000 and a two-month GST holiday on essential goods.
- NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh and Bloc Québécois Leader Yves-François Blanchet are urging the government to include retirees, people with disabilities, and students in the rebate program.
- Singh expressed initial support for the measures but called the exclusion of vulnerable groups 'wrong' and urged the Liberals to revise the plan, though he stopped short of issuing an ultimatum.
- Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland defended the rebate's focus on working Canadians, noting that some seniors who are employed will still qualify for the payments.
- The affordability plan requires parliamentary approval, with provincial leaders raising concerns about the GST holiday's impact on sales tax revenues and potential compensation mechanisms.
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