In the case of Ontario, each case is assessed on an individual basis as to whether or not you're going to assume their debt in order to get them into the program. There are instances where, for example, you have ongoing support payments. They carry those support payments in their new identity. It has nothing to do with the entry into the program. If they had debts and were economically viable enough to continue carrying those debts, in most cases they would be responsible for them.
On May 8th, 2007. See this statement in context.