What would your party do to ensure Canada’s seniors are able to live comfortably in their retirement?
The NDP is proud to be proposing a National Strategy on Aging. Our strategy includes coordinated policies that address: income security for seniors –—including expanding the level of CPP, and restoring the age of eligibility for OAS to 65. We’ll boost the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) to lift more seniors out of poverty. Healthcare – including investments in long-term care, home care — so seniors can live independently for longer- improving prescription drug coverage, better mental health services, palliative care and measures to prevent long-term illness that affect millions of Canadians. Housing — including investments in affordable housing of more than $2 billion over four years. Securing every senior’s right to safe, decent and affordable housing that’s free of unreasonable barriers. Dementia strategy, to deal with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases, one that that gives families much-needed support.
We owe our seniors the chance to age with dignity. Tom Mulcair and the NDP have a plan to make sure pensions, health care and other services are there when seniors need them.
How would your party address the need to strengthen Canada’s infrastructure and what project would you say is the highest priority for your riding?
Municipalities are responsible for 60 per cent of our public infrastructure, but they collect only eight cents of each tax dollar. With a $172-billion infrastructure deficit, there’s no way around it: we’ll need to spend some money. In Victoria we know we have roads that need attention and buildings that are below seismic standards. But every dollar invested will boost the quality of life in our communities, boost the economy and attract investment intro better-serviced communities. Some bottom lines: for roads, bridges and other vital infrastructure, we’ll ramp up to a $3.7-billion annual investment. And our Better Transit Plan will provide an additional $1.3-billion annually to get our cities moving. In our region we must attend to the reality of the need to treat sewage and I will work hard to make sure the money that was promised is available to local governments when they make the decision as to what is best for their community.
