OTTAWA, July 28, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Canada’s unions are calling on Canada’s governments to take rapid motion to extend helps for low-income individuals as proof mounts of a rising variety of households unable to afford skyrocketing housing, power and meals prices.
“So many are struggling from rising gas and energy prices, high food costs and soaring rents. We are on the cusp of a homelessness crisis,” warned Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress. “Low-income Canadians are poised on the edge of an economic precipice. Governments of all levels must act without delay to help.”
In a brand new report launched this week, researchers from the University of Calgary demonstrated how low-income households and people are topic to financial danger from rising prices but additionally political danger from authorities inaction, as many profit packages are usually not listed to inflation.
“Fall and winter will put even more pressure on struggling families, as energy needs rise and less locally grown food is available which will raise grocery costs. Governments must increase supports and index assistance programs to inflation,” mentioned Bruske. “Doing nothing while costs for essentials skyrocket means thousands more families will be facing extreme economic hardship. There is no time to waste.”
Statistics Canada’s newest CPI report confirmed meals inflation slowing, however nonetheless up 8.8% over the previous 12 months, far outpacing wage progress or social help program help. Additionally, whereas greater rates of interest have slowed the housing market, demand for rental lodging has elevated, resulting in rental prices hovering virtually 14% for the reason that begin of the 12 months.
“A critical lesson learned from the past two years of the pandemic was how supporting low-income people through an economic crisis not only helps them, it strengthens our whole economy,” concluded Bruske. “It is critical that governments not lose sight now of their responsibility to help the people who need it most.”
For extra info please contact:
CLC Media Relations
[email protected]
613-526-7426
