Nurses are adding their voice to demands for an increase in Ontario Disability Support Program.
The Registered Nurses Association of Ontario wants to see current rates doubled.
Several groups, including the NDP and Green Party, also advocate for a doubling of the rates.
“Ontario is a rich province and we can and must do better. All Ontarians deserve to have adequate shelter, to be able to afford a healthy diet and to realize their full potential as individuals,” says Chief Executive Officer Dr. Doris Grinspun. “We urge Premier Ford to act immediately by doubling the ODSP rates. This will enable people and families in Ontario who must rely on ODSP to lead dignified lives.”
The RNAO has written a letter to Premier Ford, saying the current program is out of step with today’s reality.
It cites individuals on ODSP receive $1,169 per month, while the average rate for a bachelor apartment in Ontario in 2021 was $1,106.
The RNAO adds that since the Ford government came to power in 2018, the real value of ODSP has declined 10 per cent, with an overall decline of almost 32 per cent since 1992.
Ford had indicated during the June provincial election campaign his support for a ten per cent increase in benefits.
