Good afternoon, committee members.
My name is Louise Bourgeois and I am president of the Mouvement personne d'abord de Sainte‑Thérèse. I have also been president of the Fédération des mouvements personne d'abord du Québec for a number of years.
I am the spokesperson for the 700 individuals living with an intellectual disability who are members of our provincial organization. I also sit on the board of directors of People First of Canada with my colleagues from the other provinces and territories.
People First groups are community-based self-advocacy organizations. Our organizations are run by and for our members. They sit on our boards of directors and decide what to do to defend their rights and ensure they have a place in society.
I truly believe that Bill C‑22 will help People First and all people with disabilities in this country make their way out of poverty. In the current environment, many people have gone from a precarious situation to extreme poverty. In this context, the bill can be a safety net in a country like Canada, which is committed to fighting poverty.
Given the current inflation rate, Canada must take action to help these Canadians keep their dignity. Members of our organization are now having to make some tough choices to stay within their budget. I will give you some examples.
First, I know someone who lives in substandard housing. She can't move because rents are too high in her area. Second, many people miss out on learning opportunities because they have to line up at food banks every week. Finally, others will have to keep their winter boots with holes in them if they want to put food on the table this winter.
Bill C‑22 must have an inclusive definition of the term “person with a disability” to address the right to dignity and ensure that as many people as possible living in poverty will be eligible for the new Canada disability benefit.
People living with intellectual disabilities are among the poorest in our society. They are also at greater risk of experiencing economic violence. It will be important that the amount given to individuals does not depend on their spouse's income. It should be calculated and given to the person individually. After all, the bill is about strengthening people's financial security.
It's important to me and to the people I represent to know that you respect the “nothing about us without us” principle and that you will take the time to consult with the entire disability community in Canada.
You must take into account the concerns of people living with developmental disabilities and people with disabilities to provide a fair and equitable benefit.
I know that you will have questions for me. I ask that you use simple words that I can understand. If I have trouble, I will ask the person with me to answer on my behalf.
Thank you very much for hearing what I have to say.