Human Resources committee  I would mention that the federal government currently has programs like the disability tax credit. The provincial governments have, in Ontario's case, the ODSP. To Mr. Neven's comment, it could be used with the ability to appeal if one is not eligible for a program for whatever r

Human Resources committee  In my comments, I indicated six months. I recall one of the other parliamentarians indicated 12 months. Either one would be fine. I think it would be almost impossible to consult with “all” organizations because, as you indicated, it is important to relieve poverty for those with

Human Resources committee  I can only speak to Ontario. I will take the number of $1,000 from Mr. Neven, because it's about the number I would use as well, but the extra expenses are large. Never mind the supports that are generally provided by the government; there are the extra supplies for everyday liv

Human Resources committee  I would say it's absolutely the right way. We need to move it forward. Individuals need the benefit in order to have dignity, in order to make the right choices and in order to lead proper and fulfilling lives. I mean those with all disabilities, and, again, speaking on behalf of

Human Resources committee  Then in terms of your question of the need, as you're well aware, the—

Human Resources committee  Thank you very much. I was just going to indicate that housing for those with developmental disabilities has an approximately 40-year waiting list. In York region alone, there are currently 640 individuals in residential service with supports, and in need are another 1,914. In t

Human Resources committee  Well, thank you. Safety, security and appropriate and safe housing are essential. They are at the core of everything that we do and that the majority of disability agencies do. It is vital to have good, secure, safe housing in which you are not dependent on somebody else, you ca

Human Resources committee  Well, I would go back to the comment I made that individuals with disabilities and representing those with disabilities should be around the table when all the regulations are being set to ensure things like that are in fact covered in the regulations and that there won't be thos

Human Resources committee  In terms of the phrase “amendment”, I'd be a little afraid of the timeline to both get that done right and get it done quickly. I'm not sure if an amendment is necessary, or just instructions back to drafters. Again, that's not my area of expertise, but I really think it's import

Human Resources committee  As well, I'm not an expert, but perhaps I know a bit more. The first comment I would make is that if it's in regulation or if it's in legislation, another government still has the opportunity to change it however they want, when they want and how they want. At this point, as I

Human Resources committee  From my perspective again, it is important that the money get into the hands that of those who require it as soon as possible, with all-party support. I will stress that a million times to make sure it does, in fact, happen. If it doesn't delay, I would like to see the minimum,

Human Resources committee  Thank you very much for recognizing the work that Reena does with its employment programs, which have very good success rates for those it is able to assist. Building on Mr. Neven's comments, it's important that this must be in addition to and not instead of. I would look to it

Human Resources committee  I think it's important that an individual with disabilities—in this case, I will mention specifically developmental disabilities—has the ability to both earn and have a benefit to ensure that they are not below but are actually above the poverty line and are able to live a decent

Human Resources committee  We have had many meetings with various ministers and MPs of all parties since this and previous governments were elected, indicating that there is a tremendous need for additional funds for those with disabilities, and in our case particularly for those with developmental disabil

Human Resources committee  I've heard those types of concerns from many, and it's imperative.... This is Canada. It's time we take care of all our citizens, especially and particularly those with disabilities. This is an excellent vehicle to take that step. I'm hoping, as I've indicated, that we can take