Sask. govt. defends income assistance, votes down paid sick leave pitch
CBC
The Saskatchewan government is defending its social income support program and its position on paid sick leave after Opposition calls for changes.
On Thursday, the Opposition's critic for social services Meara Conway again argued that the government should scrap its Saskatchewan Income Support (SIS) program,
Conway's request is not new. SIS has been a running concern for clients on income assistance, landlords and anti-poverty advocates. Rallies and marches have been held since the clients transferred to SIS from other income support programs last August.
Those advocating for changes have identified two issues with SIS: rent no longer goes directly to landlords, and the amount provided is not nearly enough to cover rent and utilities.
They have argued these changes are leading to homelessness.
On Thursday, Conway introduced two single parents facing these challenges.
Frank Francouer, a single father of two, told the media he received an eviction notice and has packed his things with no idea where he will go at the end of the month.
"I had no issues with the [social assistance program] as it was structured with Regina Housing [Authority]. SIS is a nightmare. It is really a nightmare."
Francouer said when the changes were made his rent through the Regina Housing Authority increased and he was forced to pay arrears, which led to the eviction.
He said he paid his bills on time and did not realize the increased rent cost of nearly $200 when he transitioned to the new program last year.
He said the cost of rent and utilities eats up his shelter benefit, leaving him dipping into his food and expenses benefit to cover the cost of his utilities.
Francoeur said he is on a budget and relies on the food bank.
Kelly Anderson, a single mother, joined Francouer as a guest of the Opposition and said that before SIS she had enough money to get by.
"I had my utilities paid. My rent was paid. If I couldn't afford to get as many groceries as I needed. There was the food bank, there were other alternatives, but now I can't even afford to pay my utilities."
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