In recognition of National Seniors Day on October 1, North Island-Powell River MP Rachel Blaney introduced a motion in parliament calling for assistance for seniors who missed their income tax deadline.
According to a media release, in motion M-70, Blaney asked the government to require the minister of employment and social development to estimate the income of pensioners who are unable to make the required statement for up to one year and provide information and resources to pensioners, so they are not prevented from accessing vital services due to paperwork requirements.
“Our most vulnerable Canadian seniors rely on a secure income to ensure they afford the drastically increased cost of living,” stated Blaney. “Too many are prevented from obtaining essential assistance that they are entitled to because of daunting paperwork requirements, illness, or other factors beyond their control. Seniors across Canada–including in my riding–are concerned about losing their guaranteed income supplement (GIS) because they filed their taxes late, often through no fault of their own.”
The release stated that Blaney has already successfully pressured the government into action on behalf of seniors, securing $742.4 million for 183,420 Canadian seniors who were affected by the GIS clawback in 2021. She has also introduced Motion M-72, requesting a national seniors strategy to ensure the government meets seniors needs as they age.
“I will never stop fighting for Canada’s vulnerable seniors, who are making heart-breaking decisions every day whether they can afford to eat, or take their medications,” stated Blaney.
The MP has a petition underway to support her motion. Readers can sign online at: rachelblaney.ndp.ca/amendment-to-the-old-age-security-act.
