This is an archive of news stories and research from the National Union of Public and General Employees. Please see our new site - https://nupge.ca - for the most current information.
All candidates have made promises to help Canadians have more money and to combat poverty in Canada. The National Union has researched past legislation and voting records to let Canadians decide who will really help them get ahead.
Ottawa (16 Oct. 2019) — As part of our ongoing election coverage, the National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) has released a fact sheet on anti-poverty measures that the 4 main federal political parties have voted for in the past, or initiatives they’ve pledged to undertake. The fact sheet is an excerpt from the National Union's 2019 Federal Election Voter's Guide.
Promise to end child poverty in Canada
In 1989, an all-party House of Commons resolution to end child poverty in Canada by the year 2000 was put forward. In the 30 years following the resolution, steps have been taken to reduce child poverty, but the resolution to end it outright has failed.
Poverty does not affect everyone equally
It is important to recognize that people of all ethnicities and abilities live in poverty, but marginalized groups, such as people of colour, Indigenous people, single mothers, members of the LGBTQI2S communities, and people with disabilities are more likely to live in poverty.
Federal funds to combat poverty will increase in 2019/20
In 2018/19, the federal government transferred $75,416 billion through the Canada Social Transfer (CST) to the provinces and territories to support post-secondary education, social assistance, and social services. In 2019/20, provinces and territories will receive $78.7 billion through the CST.
Make your voice heard!
The right to vote is preserved in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Make your voice heard by heading to the polls on Monday, October 21st. Please visit the Elections Canada website to find your polling station and how to vote!