People on AISH in low-income housing have seen their rent increase by hundreds of dollars. Combined with the $200 monthly clawback from AISH and further $200 clawback via ADAP, the loss financially to those on AISH is 30 per cent for many. On the new AISH, recipients can only earn $350 before clawback. Previously it was $1,076. On ADAP, the amount one can earn is also less than previously on AISH — it is now $700. The premier’s comments regarding AISH are clear: “AISH is the highest benefit in Canada.” To be consistent, she should also admit that “Alberta MLAs are the highest-paid MLAs Canada-wide.” MLAs who live more than 60 kilometres outside of Edmonton receive a $2,200 housing allowance that exceeds AISH. Daniell Smith voted for both higher MLA salaries and higher housing allowances while simultaneously choosing to decrease AISH benefits and tear apart the program. I guarantee you, the premier would not favour a 20 to 30 per cent decrease to her salary. Why, then, is she subjecting people who live in poverty to reduced incomes? Contrary to claims by the premier, there was no meaningful consultation with AISH recipients to create ADAP. The UCP appear to view people on AISH as file numbers, not dignified individuals. All of this chaos will save a few fractions of a per cent of the provincial budget, if at all. The human cost remains to be seen. Read More
Source: Edmonton Sun
