NDP Leader Calls for Broader Support for Vulnerable Canadians
NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh announced that his party will not support the Liberal government’s GST holiday bill unless the proposed $250 rebate is expanded to include seniors, students, people on disability benefits, and those unable to work last year. Singh criticized the current eligibility criteria, stating that it excludes “the most vulnerable” Canadians.
The Liberal proposal includes cutting the federal sales tax on select items, such as toys and restaurant meals, for two months starting mid-December, and issuing $250 cheques to over 18.7 million Canadians in spring 2025.
Singh’s Concerns
Singh, speaking after a Canadian Labour Congress event in Ottawa, said he initially backed the rebate plan under the impression it would benefit anyone earning under $150,000 last year. However, the rebate targets only those who earned an income in 2023 and contributed to Employment Insurance (EI) or the Canada Pension Plan (CPP).
“Excluding vulnerable groups like seniors, students, and those on disability benefits undermines the purpose of this rebate,” Singh said.
Government’s Response
Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland’s press secretary, Katherine Cuplinskas, refuted Singh’s claims, stating, “It is categorically false to say seniors and Canadians with disabilities are excluded from the rebate. Many seniors and people with disabilities work and qualify under the criteria.”
Eligibility for the rebate is determined by:
- Earning less than $150,000 in net income in 2023.
- Receiving EI benefits, paying EI premiums, or making CPP contributions.
Legislative Implications
The rebate and GST holiday are part of the fall economic statement, yet to be introduced in the House of Commons. A parliamentary privilege debate has stalled government business since late September, with the Conservatives filibustering over access to unredacted documents on green technology fund spending.
The NDP had agreed last week to pause the privilege debate to pass the GST holiday legislation. However, Singh has now withdrawn support unless the rebate criteria are broadened.
Bloc Québécois Stance
The Bloc Québécois has also voiced concerns, calling for rebates to include seniors and retirees who are excluded under the current plan.
The proposed GST holiday would apply to items such as prepared grocery foods, children’s clothing and toys, Christmas trees, restaurant meals, books, video games, and physical newspapers.
“Our focus is on helping all Canadians who need it most—not just those who worked last year,” Singh emphasized, reaffirming the NDP’s demand for expanded eligibility.