Thank you, Mr. Chair.
I really appreciate Mr. Poulin's testimony today, talking about the market basket measure. For the first time ever, the government has a poverty line and a measure, and certainly no one in Canada should have to live below it, so thank you for that.
I have some unfinished business from the last meeting that I want to address first, Mr. Chair. This is in relation to two of the witnesses at the last meeting talking about the Canada caregiver credit. I want to read a piece of correspondence that I received this week: “I am a 70-year-old wife, and my husband is a stroke survivor. I am reaching out to you, seeking assistance and support. I am currently providing crucial care to my husband, who suffered a stroke. Every day I dedicate my time and energy as a full-time caregiver, ensuring he receives the necessary attention, including tube feeding. Despite my commitment, it feels like my efforts often go unnoticed, and the financial strain of these medical requirements is substantial. Balancing this caregiving role with my health has become challenging. I am investing both time and resources to ensure the well-being of my loved one; however, it has been disheartening to find a lack of recognition or support from various avenues. In my pursuit to provide the best care possible, financial assistance becomes a pressing need. Currently my old age pension is the sole source of income, and it falls short of covering the escalating costs associated with my husband's medical care. I kindly request your support in addressing this matter and exploring available avenues for assistance.”
It goes on, Mr. Chair, but I want to move a motion in relation to that and in relation to testimony we heard from two witnesses saying that they'd like to see the Canada caregiver credit be made into a refundable tax-free benefit.
I will read the motion for consideration:
That the committee write to Minister Freeland to highlight her mandate to convert the Canada Caregiver Credit to a refundable tax-free benefit, and ask that it be part of the upcoming Spring budget so that Canadians who care for their loved ones are also looked after.