November 6, 2004
The BC Liberal government is providing people with disabilities with the largest rate increase in history. Effective Dec. 22, each person on disability assistance will start receiving $70 more each month, representing a total funding increase of $55 million.
“The people of B.C. have worked hard to restore B.C.’s economic and fiscal strength, and the result is that we can now focus more resources on the priorities of British Columbians,” announced Premier Gordon Campbell. “We’ve always said that those most in need would be among the first to benefit from a balanced budget, and today we are keeping our word. This increase is one step to ensure every British Columbian shares in the benefits and opportunities of a stronger B.C.”
This increase of $70 means a single person with a disability in B.C. will receive $856.42 each month for support and shelter, the second-highest income assistance rate in Canada. The rate increase will benefit approximately 66,500 clients in 2005/06. The provincial government also provides enhanced medical coverage, including MSP, Pharmacare, dental coverage, medical transportation, and low-cost bus passes.
“I am excited we are able to provide more financial support for British Columbians who are most in need,” said Human Resources Minister Susan Brice. “This increase is going to make a significant difference for people with disabilities.”
“Our government has a number of other supports in place to ensure people with disabilities have every opportunity to achieve their potential and participate as fully as possible in their communities,” said Brice.
People with disabilities have access to a range of specialized employment supports to assist them to work or volunteer as they are able. To encourage people with disabilities the BC Liberal government has:
- Invested $60 million in the Employment Program for Persons With Disabilities.
- Doubled the amount of additional monthly earnings people with disabilities can keep ($200 to $400).
- Established a $20-million Disability Supports for Employment Fund.
- Created a Minister’s Council on Employment for Persons with Disabilities.
