QUEEN’S PARK – Ontario NDP Shadow Minister for Children, Community and Social Services, Lisa Gretzky (Windsor West) has issued the following statement:
"The Ontario NDP has long called for this change, and we’re glad to see the government take this important step. Exempting the Canada Disability Benefit from social assistance calculations is the right thing to do. It ensures people on ODSP, Ontario Works, and the Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities can receive federal support without seeing their provincial benefits clawed back.
But let’s be clear, this change alone doesn’t solve the bigger issue. Social assistance rates in Ontario are still far too low and keep people trapped in legislated poverty. A $200 top-up won’t stretch far when people are already forced to choose between rent, food, and essential medications.
People with disabilities have been calling for real action, starting with doubling ODSP and OW rates to reflect the actual cost of living. Exempting the CDB is a step forward, but it must be followed by meaningful increases to ensure people can live with dignity."