NDP MP Leah Gazan, who represents Winnipeg Centre, introduced a private member’s bill to develop a national framework for a permanent Guaranteed Livable Basic Income (GLBI) in Canada. Gazan is proposing a GLBI for all people living in Canada over the age of 17 regardless of participation in the workforce or an educational training program. Gazan also says the proposal will take into account differences in costs of living regionally, and there are provisions to ensure people with exceptional health or disability needs do not have their services reduced. Senator Kim Pate will also be introducing a similar bill in the Senate. You can see Bill C-232 here and if you click Read more below for Gazan's statements.

“Since the pandemic began more people are living in poverty, while the wealthiest have become even richer. It’s shameful that the government is standing by and letting this happen,” said Gazan. “This bill is a response to calls for a guaranteed livable basic income from Indigenous, territorial, provincial and municipal jurisdictions who clearly recognize the need to modernize our social safety net. A GLBI is not only good for our economy but also critical to ensure that all individuals are able to live with dignity and security – rights afforded in the Canadian Charter.”  

 “While many factors contribute to the problem of poverty, there is no way to solve the problem without ensuring people have a liveable income,” said MP Daniel Blaikie (Elmwood-Transcona). “The pandemic has shown how fragile our collective and personal economic well-being truly is... but it also showed that, when we work together, we have the power to provide financial security and dignity to our fellow Canadians. Leah’s bill would make income security a fundamental part of Canada’s economic framework grounded in respect for the rights and dignity of human beings. I am proud to second her bill and call on Canadians from coast-to-coast-to-coast to support this initiative for social and economic justice.”

“This isn’t just good financial policy; there is a direct correlation between increased rates of violence and poverty," said Gazan. "The National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls calls for a guaranteed livable basic income as a critical, life-saving measure for Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit individuals. If the government is serious about reconciliation, they need to get this done."