Liberals Refuse to Help Canadians who need Insurance from Serious Illness or Injury

OTTAWA – New Democrats know that Canadians who suffer from an illness or injury deserve insurance in their time of need. NDP Critic for Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion, Daniel Blaikie, tabled a bill in the House of Commons to increase the special Employment Insurance sickness benefits from 15 weeks to 50 weeks.
“Many Canadians suffering from cancer or other diseases with a long treatment period simply need more financial support than the current 15-week EI benefit,” said Blaikie. “The House of Commons spoke clearly on this yesterday and the now Liberals need to get on board to get the job done. All we’re asking today is that it goes to committee so we can figure out the best way to move ahead without unnecessary delay.”
While Liberals promised to increase this illness benefit during the last election, they were the only party that refused to support the motion that the House passed yesterday to ensure Canadians get the support they need when they face a difficult time. This is a long-standing fight that the NDP has taken on to boost Employment Insurance benefits for injury and sickness. The Liberals must answer the NDP's call to immediately bring the bill to committee to make this law quickly.
“It is shameful for the Liberals to turn their backs, once again, on workers when they need help the most,” added Alexandre Boulerice, NDP Deputy Leader. “Starting in 2009, Ms. Marie-Hélène Dubé, who has faced cancer 3 times, has been fighting to prolong employment insurance sickness benefits. Yet once again, the Liberals are refusing to listen. We must do better to support people while they are battling illness or recovering from a serious injury.”